MANCHESTER LEADS THE ELECTRIC RACE

Manchester Electric, a scheme to encourage people to live the electric vehicle (EV) lifestyle is being launched across Greater Manchester this autumn. The programme aims to establish a network of charge points and will go live over the next two years.

Manchester Electric Car Company (MECC) together with its partners will launch the first of 300 fast and rapid charge points, and six large Pod Centres across the city.

The network of state-of-the-art Pod Centres aims to both support current EV owners and those looking into joining the electric revolution. Staff in the Pod Centres will be on hand to educate drivers about EVs as well as offering vehicle sales and hire, after sales care and retail facilities.

While a range of electric vehicles including cars, vans, scooters and bikes will be on sale, people can lease, hire and charge their EVs, join an electric car club, shop or just have a coffee. Domestic appliances – also known as smart charging systems – that enable drivers to charge their vehicles at home will also be available.

The Pod Centres will be situated in key sites including Manchester Airport, Manchester City Centre, Oldham, MediaCityUK, Stockport and the Trafford Centre, with more to follow.

Ron Stratton Chief Executive Officer of MECC, said: "Electric vehicles, from family cars to scooters or company vehicles are going to transform the way we live and work. The future is electric. I expect to oversee a tenfold increase in the number of charging points over the next few years."