The RAC has become the first recovery company to trial hybrid vehicles, as part of a wider initiative to reduce CO2 emissions.

Two vehicles from RAC’s fleet are being trialled for two months with the Hybrid+ system, one in Norwich and the other in central London.

If the trial successfully reduces fuel consumption and carbon emissions, RAC aims to increase the number of hybrid vehicles in its fleet.

“The Hybrid+ system is bolted on to the engine of the vehicle,” said Steve Lydon, RAC quality manager.

“When you pull away, it kicks in and turns the engine using the electricity it has stored.”