The vehicles will form the next phase of the 'Smart Move' trial, a major part of the collaboration between Cenex and Regional Development Agency One North East.
“Cenex is pleased to continue our collaboration with One North East on electric vehicle deployment via this extension to our joint Smart Move project. The i-MiEV deployed in the Smart Move project will provide valuable learning concerning electric vehicle acceptance and future market development,“ Robert Evans, CEO of Cenex, said in a release.
The first part of the Cenex ‘Smart Move’ trial gave hundreds of drivers the chance to get behind the wheel of an electric car through placements in vehicle fleets at local authorities and at public test drive events. Trial results showed that vehicle fleets like those at local authorities could provide a successful early market for electric vehicles.
“With a range of 80 miles, a top speed of 81 mph, as well as minimal servicing and running costs and ample cabin space, it will prove that electric vehicles can be utilised without compromise in an organisation’s fleet,” added Mitsubishi Motors’ Managing Director, Lance Bradley.
As the electric vehicle market is on its way of gaining recognition in the UK, One North East is installing 1,300 charging points across the region as part of the national Plugged in Places programme.
The first 40 charging points in the network have already been installed across Tyneside by Newcastle Council, and the UK’s first solar-powered charging canopy was installed earlier this year at Gateshead Civic Centre’s public car park.
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