Proposals put forward for efficient cars

Date: 29/4/2010

Plans have been outlined for the development of a new network of accessible high-voltage charging stations across Europe to allow for the growth of the use of electric cars.

The European Commission confirmed the development saying that it aims to have safety and technical standards ready for such stations by 2011.

According to the commission, such an effort forms part of a plan to help wean Europe off oil, and offers a lifeline to the car industry.

"Growing demand for clean and efficient cars is a huge opportunity for an industry emerging from its worst crisis in decades," the commission said in a statement.

However, it noted that there is a need for a coherent approach and strong coordination among stakeholders in order for the project to be a success.

While electric cars are not the only sustainable transport methods, the EU notes that recent technological breakthroughs such as batteries that stay charged for longer, have made them more attractive to consumers and therefore possibly closer to being mass marketed.