The free of charge publication addresses some of the common queries relating to electric vehicles including information about batteries, charging, vehicle performance, on-the-road cost, government incentives and safety.

"Over the past decade, the pace of technological developments in the automotive industry has picked up considerably as vehicle manufacturers focus on increasing the fuel efficiency of their vehicles and cutting CO2 emissions," said Paul Everitt, SMMT's chief executive. "Our responsibility is therefore greater than ever to guide motorists through the increasing range of choices they now face. It is important they understand the benefits they can experience, equipping them with the best information to make the right purchasing decision for their driving needs."

Transport secretary, Philip Hammond, recently confirmed that the ‘Plug-In Car Grant', designed to stimulate demand for low carbon vehicles, will go ahead from January 2011.
Motorists will be entitled to a grant for up to 25% of the cost (capped at £5,000), when buying an electric, plug-in hybrid or hydrogen fuel cell car, providing it meets safety, reliability, performance and warranty standards set by the Office for Low Emissions Vehicles (OLEV) in consultation with industry.

The work of the Automotive Council aims to ensure the UK motor industry plays a significant role in the development of exciting, low carbon transport solutions. Working to achieve this, the Automotive Council will promote collaboration between industry, research communities and government to make the UK the location of choice for the development, demonstration and marketing of low carbon vehicles and fuels.