Motorcycles and scooters will join cars, vans, trucks and buses in the Government’s drive for greener vehicles, Business Minister Matthew Hancock has announced.

Up to £7.5 million will be set aside to boost the uptake for electric two wheelers and help bridge the cost gap between a zero emission electric motorcycle and conventional petrol versions.

The grant could offer up to £1,500 off the purchase price and allow motorcyclists to reduce both their running costs and environmental impact.

The move comes following meetings with the electric Motor Cycle Industry Association and leading manufacturers, including Suzuki, Harley Davidson, BMW, Volt, and Mahindra.

Business Minister Matthew Hancock said: “Low emission vehicles are the future and show that we can meet our climate change commitments without giving up our cars or motorbikes. Electric motorcycles and scooters have got fantastic potential and can be a real force for good.

“This investment shows we are serious about increasing the uptake of cleaner vehicles in the UK, and offer a fantastic place for firms to locate their R&D and manufacturing facilities. Supporting new technologies is a key part of our long-term economic plan.”

Transport Minister Baroness Kramer said: "This £7.5 million for electric bikes demonstrates our commitment to all ultra-low emission vehicles, from motorbikes to cars and trucks. From navigating city streets to putting in the motorway miles there is now a genuine low emission choice for everyone and electric vehicles are now ready to go mainstream. We are determined that the UK continues to be at the forefront of this vital revolution in transport."

The Government will continue to work closely with the industry as it finalises the details of the scheme, including the grant level and final eligibility criteria, but it could be up and running in dealerships as early as this summer. The funding is being made available from the £500 million Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) programme for the period 2015-2020.