Under the partnership, EST Scotland and Automotive Leasing will distribute information to fleet operators in the public and private sectors about LeasePlan Group’s “Take A Leaf Out of Our Book” initiative, which offers drivers the chance to trial a Nissan LEAF electric vehicle for three months.

The two organisations will also promote the EST’s fuel-efficient driver training.

Judith Eadie, account director at Automotive Leasing, said: ‘There is nothing that beats the real-world experience of driving an all-electric vehicle. EST is the ideal organisation to promote the benefits of ultra-low emission vehicles as they visit businesses and public bodies around Scotland.

‘This agreement with EST is a reflection of our drive to promote environmentally friendly modes of transportation. We hope that we’ll be better able to understand just how public bodies and businesses will use all electric vehicles in challenging landscape and environment.’

Stephen Rennie, transport programme manager at Energy Saving Trust, added:  ‘Energy Saving Trust, funded by Transport Scotland, provides free, independent transport advice to all sizes of business in Scotland. 

‘We’re really pleased to be working with Automotive Leasing, having recognised their commitment to promoting electric vehicles in Scotland.’

The news comes as Nissan doubles its EV public sector specialist team to support the sales-leading LEAF and recently-launched e-NV200.