New electric car charging points unveiled in north-east

Date: 21/10/2009

A number of new charging points for electric cars have been unveiled in the Tyneside area.

Transport secretary Andrew Adonis unveiled the new NewcastleGateshead Advanced Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Programme last week.

Two charging posts have already been installed at the Regional Development Agency One North East head office, while the remainder are to be installed by Newcastle Council.

Commenting, Lord Adonis said: "The north east has a real opportunity to lead the way in the low-carbon revolution.

"I want other regions to take their lead from the north east, who are addressing all aspects of the electric vehicle jigsaw."

He added that the inclusion of charging posts made electric cars a "real option" for drivers.

The initial charging spots are being piloted ahead of a larger extension of the project in the region.

Last month the Energy Technologies Institute announced an £11 million project to increase the number of plug-in stations in the UK.

Among the cities to benefit from the plan are Birmingham, London, Oxford and Sunderland.