Electric vehicle usage has gained a boost in London with the launch of the first electric vehicle recharging zone.

The scheme, which is the first joint-borough service of its kind in the country, will enable drivers to recharge electric vehicles at any recharging point in the 10 boroughs that form the South and West London Transport Conference Partnership (SWELTRAC).

The first nine posts have been installed in car parks in Richmond upon Thames, Hammersmith and Fulham, Sutton and Wandsworth, with plans for more points to follow across the region.

Drivers will be able to plug in and go after paying an annual administration fee of £100.

Normal parking fees apply.

The scheme is part of Richmond Council’s drive to cut down on harmful emissions.

Cllr David Trigg, cabinet member for transport and traffic, said: “We hope these charging posts will encourage people to switch to electric vehicles and take up environmentally-friendly travel.

“With fuel prices rising and ‘green’ electric motor technology improving, we hope that drivers will consider investing in electric vehicles as a way to save money as well as reducing their impact on the environment.”