£10 million electric car project

• Government announces funding
• Car companies can bid to take part
• 100 cars will be trialled in towns and cities

Latest News

• MG gives local workers 15% discount
• Citroen launches recall website
• New Audi A3 vs Merc A-Class, Volvo V40
• Renault Alpine concept car leaked

Related stories

• Electric supercar on sale, but not in UK
• Electric cars turn on drivers
• Green supercar firm hits trouble

The Government has announced a £10 million project to promote the development and use of electric cars.

Under the plan, which will be overseen by the Technology Strategy Board, manufacturers will bid to participate in a project to run electric car and ultra-low carbon vehicle demonstration projects.

In addition, around 100 electric cars will be provided to various towns and cities to allow motorists to give feedback on the practical steps needed to make greener motoring an everyday reality.

Transport secretary Geoff Hoon announced the plans, saying it could create 10,000 new jobs in Britain and help safeguard many thousands more.

A further £20 million had been set aside for UK research into improving technology that could make electric and other green cars more practical and affordable.