Several London firms have already signed up to use a new fleet of hybrid cars.

City Car Club has purchased a £1 million fleet of hybrids so members can avoid paying the congestion charge.

An order for 45 Honda Civic diesel/electric cars has been completed and the new cars were delivered to sites around Kensington and Chelsea last week.

The club claims small businesses have been keen to take advantage of the scheme which gives members access to cars which are parked in designated bays and can be rented hourly from £3.60, including fuel. Members book cars via the internet or phone and cars are unlocked with a personal membership card.

A city law firm has agreed to have one of the vehicles permanently at its London office while a city-based estate agent has agreed to use the hybrid cars to transport clients to properties around the capital.

Other small businesses and local councils have also expressed an interest in the environmentally-friendly car club.

Dirk van Dijl, chief executive officer at City Car Club, said: “It’s a double whammy for our members.

They can drive around London without having to pay the congestion charge, and park for free in Westminster.They will also be cutting down on their carbon footprint by using an extremely green vehicle.

“Green issues are high on the agenda and the government’s suggested plans for a green tax on motorists will push yet more motorists away from ownership and towards car clubs.”