The Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop, has confirmed an £85 million investment dedicated to the rollout of essential electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and the wider transition to zero-emission vehicles.

This funding forms a key component of a substantial transport package, with more than £4 billion set to be invested in the upcoming financial year. The 2026-27 draft Scottish Budget allocates a total of £4.3 billion to transport, including a record £2.7 billion specifically for public transport. These figures reflect a strategic commitment to low-carbon transport as a primary tool for addressing climate change.

In addition to the EV funding, £316 million has been earmarked for sustainable travel and climate-positive initiatives. This allocation is intended to encourage the shift toward sustainable transport modes and promote active travel, such as walking, wheeling, and cycling for shorter trips.

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During a visit to the E.ON Drive Charging Station in Stirling, Ms Hyslop said: "Our 2026‑27 draft Budget delivers significant investment to keep families and communities connected, enable access to public services and provide the foundation for economic activity in Scotland.

"We know that we need to reduce emissions and support a Just Transition to net zero by 2045 – that's why, in 2026-27 we will provide £85 million to fund new and continuing low carbon activities, including further developing Scotland's EV charging network and new incentives to continue to support consumers and businesses to make the switch to electric vehicles.

"We are also using our Non-Domestic Rates regime to further our net zero ambitions by introducing a relief for qualifying Electric Vehicle charging points for 10 years.

"Our plans for the next financial year and beyond will deliver against the First Minister's priorities and Programme for Government commitments, guided as ever by our National Transport Strategy. Protecting our climate has never been more important and this draft Budget strengthens our resolve and commitment to do so."

The strategy also includes targeted tax relief, with a 10-year Non-Domestic Rates relief being introduced for qualifying EV charging points to further incentivise infrastructure growth across the country.