The vehicle will be driven by plant manager Steve Openshaw, and will cover a predicted 70,000 miles during its time with the company. Charging points at Steve’s home address and the office are aimed at maximising the amount of time the car will spend driving using its 50-mile electric range.

‘The company directors have also trialled the vehicle and were impressed that it operates just like a normal car; if my test-case vehicle proves successful then we shall look to adding the Ampera to the directors’ fleet as well,’ Openshaw said.

In November 2012 the Eric Wright Group was recognised by the Energy Saving Trust, receiving the runner up award in the Grey Fleet Management category of its Fleet Hero Awards.