'It is still early days' for electric cars

Date: 17/12/2010

2011 looks set to be a "make or break year" for electric cars and the signs so far are pointing towards success for the vehicles, it has been claimed.

However, Dr Ben Lane - Managing Editor of nextgreencar.com - said it is still early days for the sector and 2010 was not a particularly good year in terms of sales.

While he acknowledged electric cars are not suitable for every driver or journey, he believes "they will find a sizable chunk of the market".

Dr Lane explained a number of key elements are coming into place for the vehicles to achieve mass-market success, with manufacturers producing high quality models, charging infrastructure being implemented and the government grant about to be introduced.

He was remarking on a recent announcement by Transport Secretary Philip Hammond and Business Minister Mark Prisk of nine eco car models that will be eligible for state grants of up to £5,000 in the new year.

Posted by Nick Anderson