The UK's only electric car club has opened a new operation at the University of Hertfordshire, offering low cost zero-emissions driving to students, staff, and the local community.

 

Members of the E-Car Club scheme will be able to hire one of three Renault electric cars - two ZOE superminis and a Fluence Z.E. saloon - for £5.50 per hour. Each car has a range of around 90 miles under real world driving conditions and will be charged in designated parking bays.

 

First launched in East London last year, E-Car Club aims to improve mobility on a local level, whilst simultaneously reducing both the cost and environmental impact of each journey taken. The initiative provides members with the convenience and flexibility of full-sized electric cars without the cost of owning one.

 

The concept is popular on campuses in the US, but the tie in with the University of Hertfordshire is the first time an electric car club has been tried at a UK institution.

 

Chris Morris, co-founder of E-Car Club, said: "A first for the UK, we're confident the programme will not only reduce transport emissions and costs for UH faculty, but provide a convenient, flexible and affordable transport option for University students as young as 19."

 

"Starting with three cars available to hire by the hour across two campuses, we're ready to increase the number of vehicles quickly as demand dictates."

 

Last year Morris had said he intends to have 100 electric cars available at several sites across the UK.