Sarah Newton, the Conservative MP for Truro and Falmouth, is urging innovative local businesses to apply for a share of £40million in government funding to develop new ways of charging electric vehicles.
The government wants nearly all cars and vans to be zero-emission by 2050.
A major challenge will be to grow the UK’s charging infrastructure quickly enough to make electric vehicles an attractive choice.
The government has launched two competitions, with £40million up for grabs.
The first focuses on charging vehicles in public spaces, to support people who don’t have suitable off-street parking.
The second focuses on wireless charging of commercial vehicles, such as taxis and delivery vans.
Mrs Newton said: “Electric vehicles significantly improve air quality, boost the environment and reduce costs for motorists.
“It’s vital we embrace technology and ensure the charging infrastructure is in place so we keep pace with demand.
“There are so many innovative businesses in Truro, Falmouth and Cornwall as a whole, and it would be great to see some of them secure funding and lead this revolution in UK transport.”
The deadline for applications for both competitions is midday on 29 August 2018.
Projects must be led by a business, working with other companies, local authorities, research organisations or charities.