James Court has been named as the first chief executive of the Electric Vehicle Association (EVA), a group formed to represent electric vehicle (EV) drivers.

Court previously worked in the Cabinet Office on the UK’s COP26 transport policy and helped build the Climate Group’s UK Electric Fleets Coalition (UKEFC), representing the UK’s biggest fleet owners.

He also held a position at the Renewable Energy Association, where he worked with EV charging companies and manufacturers as director of policy and communications.

Court said: “There has been a quiet revolution happening on British roads in the past five years, with over 400,000 EVs now registered, as drivers recognise the convenience and low running costs of electric vehicles. I couldn’t be joining EVA England at a more exciting time, as EV ownership moves into the mainstream and EVs become the obvious choice for people’s next car purchase.

“I’m looking forward to increasing the membership benefits, giving exclusive offers and cost savings, and becoming an indispensable resource to EVA England members.

“EVA England will continue growing as a passionate voice in the media and to government, pushing for better infrastructure, larger vehicle choice and ultimately cleaner and healthier streets.”

Electric Vehicle Association (EVA) England was established in June 2020 to offer a voice, services and representation to current and prospective electric vehicle drivers in England. EVA England is a non-profit community interest company founded by passionate EV drivers inspired by the benefits of electric driving and concerned by the health and climate impacts of the use of petrol and diesel cars and vans.

EVA England’s chair Bridget Phelps added: “James is a passionate advocate for electric vehicles and brings over 15 years of experience working in the environmental, energy and transport worlds. He will be developing our services to our members and working with them to bring their voice to EV policy making and the fast adoption of zero emission vehicles.”

Demand for electric vehicles (EVs) is increasing as fuel prices spike, according to Auto Trader.

The proportion of electric cars viewed on its marketplace had dropped from a high of 26% in late September 2021 when the petrol crisis took hold, to just 16% in February. But since prices at the pumps started to rocket, so has consumer interest. In early March Auto Trader says EVs now account for 20% of all advert views.