2010 saw 'big changes for diesel and petrol cars'

Date: 6/1/2011

Electric vehicles have been seen as an important development to making the UK's car industry greener, it has been said.

According to the BBC, much hope was had for this type of vehicle. While uptake has not been as strong as desired, last year saw some positive efficiency changes for diesel and petrol cars.

Speaking to the news resource, Richard Bremner, from Clean Green Cars, said: "This year will be a litmus test for the electric car," citing concerns about breadth of range and cost.

Indeed, Business Minister Mark Prisk and Transport Secretary Philip Hammond have unveiled nine models - including the Nissan Leaf and Citroen CZero - which are set to be eligible for grants of up to £5,000.

It is hoped 2011 will be "the year of the electric car for the UK".

The grants were made available from January 1st, meaning motorists could save up to a quarter of the cost of an electric car.

Posted by Nick Anderson