Campaign against false information on electric vehicles

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【Summary】MPs from the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Electric Vehicles are supporting the #StopBurningStuff campaign, which aims to combat misinformation about electric vehicles (EVs). The campaign, endorsed by scientists and industry leaders, seeks to counter incorrect anti-EV rhetoric. MPs have expressed concerns about the UK government's change of stance regarding new petrol and diesel cars and vans, which they argue creates uncertainty for consumers and manufacturers.

FutureCar Staff Oct 26, 2023 4:14 PM PT

Campaign against false information on electric vehicles

MPs from the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Electric Vehicles have thrown their support behind a new campaign aimed at tackling misinformation about electric vehicles. The #StopBurningStuff initiative, launched by EV campaign group FairCharge and Robert Llewellyn's Fully Charged Show, aims to counter incorrect anti-EV rhetoric and has gained endorsements from scientists, climate ambassadors, and senior industry figures.

The campaign has now received backing from MPs, including Matt Western, chair of the APPG on Electric Vehicles and Labour MP for Warwick and Leamington. Western expressed concern over the UK government's recent change of stance on new petrol and diesel cars and vans, stating that it is disastrous for consumers and manufacturers who need certainty to make investment decisions. He emphasized the importance of leading with the market in order to be at the forefront of new technologies.

At a meeting of the APPG on EVs, representatives from the REA (Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology), FairCharge, and the Fully Charged Show highlighted the negative impact of misinformation on the electric vehicle sector. The meeting followed the publication of the government's 30-point plan for drivers, which includes a focus on combating myths about EVs.

Matthew Adams, transport policy manager at REA, stated that the meeting provided an opportunity for MPs to understand the impact of their words on the industry. He mentioned the results of a poll that revealed significant market uncertainty following the Prime Minister's speech and expressed hope that the information presented at the meeting would help inform MPs' voting decisions.

Quentin Willson, founder of FairCharge, highlighted the unprecedented levels of poorly researched misinformation about electric cars and batteries. He called for urgent action from the government to debunk these myths and save the motor industry while moving towards energy independence.

The #StopBurningStuff campaign will also continue its efforts to counter misinformation, particularly in the mass media. Plans include creating a compendium of facts, figures, and infographics to provide accurate information for media and others when faced with anti-sustainability narratives.

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