The Netherlands is a vital global market for plug-in hybrid vehicles, with 24,512 sold during 2013 according to Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland (Netherlands Enterprise Agency) figures – a 6% share of the total market.

However, according to Alphabet’s research, many drivers are attracted to the registration and circulation tax incentives of low-carbon vehicles, and the ability to fall back on a conventional petrol or diesel engine can cause them to plan journeys badly.

The company is launching an eMobility tool in the Netherlands to help drivers and employers award proper use of a plug-in hybrid vehicle, maximising the time spent driving using electric power and preventing ‘abuse’ of the drivetrain. This is available for free to non-Alphabet customers.

Anne Brons, director of marketing and business development at Alphabet (Netherlands), said: ‘Only when the driving pattern and the charging capabilities of the user match the capabilities of the vehicle can the actual CO² emissions can be drastically reduced. When someone barely drives any electric mileage, everyone loses: the company, the driver and especially the environment.’