Car hire may be affected by ‘positive’ electric vehicle trials

Car hire services could be using electric vehicles in the near future, after one expert claimed the motors will grow in popularity next year.

Dr Ben Lane, director of WhatGreenCar.com, said 2011 looks set to be "very promising" for the vehicles.

He described the results of current trials on Mitsubishi innovative electric vehicles as exceedingly positive.

The latest figures from the long-term study revealed those who have been driving the cars for six months are exhibiting increased confidence by making longer journeys and are also reporting low refuelling costs.

Dr Lane stated the results show the importance of trying out the vehicles, as people's expectations of electric cars rise "significantly" when they actually drive one.

The introduction of government grants of up to £5,000 for consumers buying an eco-friendly car in January will help increase sales, he noted.

And the expert added the government should give members of the public a chance to drive the vehicles in order to increase their popularity further.

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