Parking perk to end
The City of London will end free parking for electric vehicles at the end of the year. A spokesman said: “We are concerned that free parking has encouraged car use instead of the use of public transport, walking and cycling.” From 2009, new electric car users will not get any parking discounts, while those already holding free-parking cards will have to pay £2,000. Electric car manufacturer Nice said the decision was “barmy”.

Green thinking
More than 90% of AA members would consider taking measures to reduce the overall environmental impact of their cars. According to an AA/Populus poll of 17,481 motorists, the most popular action would be to buy a more fuel efficient car.

Biofuel back out
The EU may back out of its biofuel commitment. On the eve of the assumption by the French government to the presidency of the EU, its ecology minister said it will “call into question or postpone the 10% objective” for increasing EU biofuel use.

Flexxilease office
Vehicle leasing company Flexxilease has invested £250,000 to open a new sales office in Newcastle. Until now, the company has operated entirely from the headquarters of its parent company – One Stop Car Shop – based in Verwood, Dorset.

Van website
A new van buying website has been launched. Bestvandeals.com is offering new and used LCVs from makes including Fiat Professional, LDV, Ford, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, Renault and Citroën. The site is part of Imperial Commercials.