The Department for Transport (DfT) has revealed that over 25,000 grants for Ultra Low Emission Vehicles (ULEVs) have been awarded since the scheme began in 2010.

In light of the rapidly developing market, it has been decided to update the specifications of vehicles eligible for the funding, which can be as much as £5,000.

From April 2015, category one vehicles will have to emit less than 50g of carbon dioxide per km, and have a zero emissions range of at least 70 miles. Category two vehicles will have the same limit on CO2 per km, but must have a zero emissions range between ten and 69 miles. Category three requirements will be CO2 per km of 50-75g, and a zero emissions range of 20 miles or more.

Grants will continue to be available for all three categories until 2017, or until 50,000 are awarded. At present, there are 25 models of car and seven models of van eligible for the scheme, with many more expected to be released over the coming years.