Car charging points set up in Birmingham and Coventry

Thirty-six charging points for electric cars have been set up across Birmingham and Coventry. The two cities have been taking part in a government-backed trial aimed at encouraging drivers to use electric or hybrid vehicles.

A range of vehicles, such as Mitsubishi i-MiEV cars have already been given out to test drivers in the region. To mark the occasion, a convoy of cars made its way from points installed at Temple Row, Birmingham, to the plaza at Ikea in Coventry.

Pleasant experience

Charles Bradshaw-Smith, one of the drivers taking part in the test and who also works of E.On, one of the companies involved in installing the charging points, said he had found his new vehicle very good for commuting. "I have found it a pleasant experience," he said. "I've done 8,000 miles, and I don't call at petrol stations any more. I plug it in at home and it charges overnight." He can do up to 80 miles (128km) out of a charge, he said.

The charging points work similar to petrol stations pumps, with a lead being plugged into a post and being left while it charges.

New charging points can be found at the Bullring Moor Street car park, Margaret Street and Aston Street in Birmingham and Croft Road, Belgrade Plaza car park and Little Park Street in Coventry.