New electric vehicle charging points, emblazoned with King Charles's royal cypher, have been installed in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace. The chargers, clad in livery green and featuring a crown above the letters CR (Charles Rex), signify a significant step in the monarch's efforts to transition the royal fleet to predominantly electric vehicles.
Keeper of the Privy Purse James Chalmers detailed these developments as part of the annual Sovereign Grant review. The initiative extends across the royal estate, with charging points also installed at Windsor and Sandringham. These installations are part of broader sustainability measures being implemented on royal properties. Other green initiatives include the installation of sustainable aviation fuel tanks at RAF Odiham and RAF Northolt to support eco-friendly fuel usage for royal flights, particularly helicopters.
King Charles has a history of embracing eco-friendly transportation. As the Prince of Wales, he converted an Aston Martin to run on bioethanol derived from recycled cheese and wine. He was also the first member of the Royal Family to own an electric vehicle, a leased Jaguar I-Pace, which he had repainted and fitted with a fast charger. He was recently observed driving a Lotus Eletre EV at the Sandringham Estate.
The electrification of the royal household's motor fleet has contributed to a six percent reduction in the household's year-on-year carbon emissions. The target for zero carbon emissions for the royal household is set for 2040. While the majority of the official royal fleet is now electric, hybrid, or biofuel-powered, two historic State Bentleys, noted for their size and armor plating, have been converted to run on bioethanol fuel.
In related news, it has been confirmed that King Charles and Queen Camilla will not be moving back into Buckingham Palace following its extensive renovation. The palace will remain the administrative hub and the "beating heart" of the monarchy, hosting meetings and events, while Clarence House will continue to serve as the King's residence. A YouGov survey indicated that 66 percent of the British public supports the King's decision not to reside at Buckingham Palace.