Fuel duels - Electricity

As used in: The G-wiz is the only electric car available in the UK.

What is it? The car is driven by a battery-powered electric motor.

Cost: A complete recharge takes about six hours, at the electricity provider's normal rate.

Where can I buy it? Anywhere with an electric plug socket.

Pros: No pollution from the car; low tax liabilities.

Cons: Range and maximum speed of electric cars are limited, while batteries are heavy and large.

Expert view: Electric vehicles are viable for short urban journeys. However, environmental benefits are compromised if they are charged using electricity generated from fossil fuel power stations.

Outlook: Useful for city dwellers; only major technical advances will make them suitable everyday transport for most people.