Member Article

UK’s first electric-only car hire company launches

The Government’s Go Ultra Low campaign, which is pushing for British motorists to drive ultra-low emission vehicles, has been given a boost today with the launch of the UK’s first electric-only car hire company, Electric Car Hire. The company’s fleet of zero-emission 100% electric BMW i3s is now available to drivers in London and the South East for daily or weekly hire.

The Government campaign, which was launched by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg with a £9 million investment to increase the number of car charging points across the country, was strengthened earlier this month with three more car manufacturers signing up. They have pledged to expand the range of low emission cars on the market, but with only 2.5 million new cars sold last year*, more work is needed to influence the 52 million adults in the UK** that low emission and electric cars are the future. Car hire provides a low cost and accessible option for motorists to try the vehicles.

There is a host of driver incentive schemes available for electric cars including free charging, a waive on the London congestion charge, and free parking in certain London Boroughs. This is all part of the UK’s goal to lead the way in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles globally. In June, London will also host the finish of the world’s first fully electric motor racing series, Formula E.

The European electric vehicle market grew by 37 per cent last year***, with the UK recording the biggest increase. The UK also has the highest number of new electric vehicles, with more than 15,000 on the road.

Matthew Munson, managing director of Electric Car Hire, commented, “We are on the cusp of a new and exciting era in motoring with sustainable driving now becoming part of the nation’s conscience. There are now more charging points in London than petrol stations, and with the Government funding only increasing the numbers, it has never been easier to make sure your vehicle is charged fuelled and ready for use. We’re here to support this trend and offer an affordable service that’s environmentally and user-friendly.”

Speaking at the launch of the Go Ultra Low campaign, Mr Clegg said, “Electric cars are one of the most promising of our green industries and we want to secure the UK’s position as a global leader in both the production and adoption of these vehicles. The extremely low running costs of electric cars help drivers save money and we are allocating more than £9 million to boost chargepoints across the country to help drivers to go green.”

Electric Car Hire offers a tailored hire service for customers, with free same day delivery of any one of its BMW i3s if ordered before 4pm.

Drivers can hire a car for as little as £21.50 per day**** or £235 a week. The vehicle is free to charge at most roadside charging points across London and can be fully charged in just 30 minutes using a ‘DC fast charge’ device, provided upon rental.

ENDS

* SMMT http://www.smmt.co.uk/2015/01/uk-new-car-registrations-december-2014/

** ONS 2015

*** http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2015/feb/06/uk-led-europes-electric-car-surge-in-2014

****based on a six month rental contract

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Electric Car Hire .