Residents and stakeholders took a range of electric cars on test at A2Dominion’s launch event of its partnership with Fleetdrive Electric at the UK’s first ever eco-town in NW Bicester.

The partnership is plans to encourage residents to adopt sustainable transport choices at the exciting NW Bicester eco-town development.

Over 80 test drives were taken on the day in vehicles including the Tesla Model S, BMW i8 and i3, Audi e-tron, VW E-Up, E-Golf, Mitsubishi Outlander Phev and Nissan Leaf.

Strategic partnership manager Louise Caves, said: “Together with Fleetdrive, we have shaped a range of initiatives to demonstrate the benefits of ultra-low emission vehicles to future residents and give them the opportunity to experience these exciting cars first hand. Our goal is to get 10% of residents switching to pure electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles over the next two years.

“Travel accounts for 32% of a typical UK carbon footprint, with private car use alone accounting for 18% of this. The wide range of incentives will enable residents to make informed decisions about their transport choices and minimise their CO2 emissions.”

Some of the initiatives to encourage take-up of electric vehicles (EVs) include subsidised EVs for champions within the community to enable them to share their experiences of using the vehicle, pop-up neighbourhood test drive events and ‘try before you buy’ flexible leasing options.

Mike Potter, managing director of Fleetdrive, added: “Unsurprisingly the Tesla was the most popular with the BMW i8 close behind. However, all the vehicles were taken out almost non-stop throughout the day. Motorists returned with grins on their faces and were pleasantly surprised at how quick and easy the vehicles were to drive, and how quiet they were. During the test drive they learnt about the car and the potential savings in fuel costs along with the environmental benefits of driving electric.

“We are pleased to be able to offer test drives and trial periods so people can try them out and find out which vehicle they prefer, which is the most practical for them and which suits their budget.”

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