Government invests in eco-car research

The British government has announced plans to encourage its citizens to use greener forms of transport.

Plans include a £100 million investment into green car research, and a programme of eco-vehicle trials around the UK.

As part of the plans, transport secretary Geoff Hoon has invited car manufacturers to bid to take part in a £10 million trial of electric cars.

The trial, to be overseen by the Technology Strategy Board, will allow people across Britain to have a go at driving green cars.

Around 100 eco-friendly vehicles will be placed in towns and cities around the country giving drivers the opportunity to offer feedback and solutions for how electricity powered motoring could enter the mainstream.

The government will also be looking into ways to provide public bodies such as Royal Mail and city councils with electric and low carbon vehicles.

Electric cars cut fuel costs and reduce carbon emissions, said Hoon.

He added that inspiring people to make the switch to electric vehicles will have a ‘positive impact’ on climate change.

Lord Mandelson, Secretary of State for Business, said the government plans to put the UK at the ‘forefront’ of a worldwide low carbon revolution.

Mandelson added that the government wants to make sure that the UK is at the centre of new developments in eco-friendly vehicles.