Businesses looking to cut carbon and fuel costs are being urged to take seriously the new generation of electric vehicles (EVs) as the Energy Saving Trust (EST) launches a new video guide taking a look at the realities of going electric.

‘Living with an electric car’ highlights the benefits and opportunities of investing in electric vehicles and shows that not only can they help organisations to reduce their carbon emissions, but can offer a cost effective solution as well, says EST.

The guide, presented by Robert Llewellyn of Red Dwarf and Scrapheap Challenge fame, also tackles head on concerns around charging, range and cost offering a realistic and in-depth review of the viability of electric cars from a leading independent and impartial organisation.

The limited range of an electric vehicle isn’t a barrier for all organisations or individuals, according to EST.

Many vehicles’ daily mileage is well within the range of the latest electric cars and vans and the ‘fuel’ for electric vehicles is much cheaper in comparison to petrol and diesel.

EST says there are savings in other areas too, if an electric car is used in the London congestion charge zone, a further saving of at least £9 per day is made when it is driven in the zone; two visits a week for 48 weeks a year is another £864 per annum.

The aim of the video is to provide a resource for individuals and business users alike which will inform and educate them about electric vehicles.

Philip Sellwood, chief executive of Energy Saving Trust, said: “Over the last few years there has been much debate about the viability of the electric car and the part they play in today’s carbon conscious society.

“It’s obvious that there is a huge benefit in terms of electric vehicles in terms of cutting emissions on the road, but it is also clear that they can make economic sense for some organisations and individuals.

“Our Living with an electric car video offers the perfect opportunity to weigh up the pros and cons of purchasing an electric car, and with grants and support on offer, there has never been such a good time to consider doing so.

“Businesses and consumers both need access to clear and impartial information, allowing them both to make a balanced and informed choice in their potential purchase of an electric car.”