The Mia-Electric range of car and CV electric vehicles are already on sale in Europe and are now being introduced to the UK following the signing of a new, official import deal.

All vehicles are produced in France, at the former Heuliez factory in Cerizay and are offered on a common chassis and drivetrain.

Designed specifically for urban environments, all Mia-Electric vehicles are bespoke EVs, offering a central driving position, sliding doors, a cut-out floor and roof and ABS body panels.

Each is driven by two Lithium Ion Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, generating 12kW, and giving an official range of up to 74 miles. Batteries can be charged at any time, with a 10-minute charge providing a 5-mile range and a full recharge taking five hours.

The official British Mia-Electric importers will be Venture Automotive Holdings Ltd, trading as “Mia-Electric UK”. The company will target business drivers and fleet operators initially, based on the vehicle’s obvious economic and environmental advantages, in urban and return-to-base, delivery use.

‘There is a very real and practical place for EVs in the UK vehicle market,” said MD Paul Evans, ‘but, we are realistic in the best place for them. Urban environments, short journeys and regular return-to-base delivery fleets are ideal for electric vehicles. That’s where the cost per mile and zero emissions benefits are greatest and what Mia is designed for.’

Mia-Electric’s launch to the UK fleet market will coincide with revisions to the London Congestion Charge in July, which will see only vehicles emitting 75g/km CO₂ exempt from the charge.

Mia-Electric vehicles will be offered with a “Peace of Mind” programme, comprising a five-year/70,000-mile warranty for vehicle, battery, electric drivetrain and anti-corrosion and roadside assistance.

OTR prices will start from £16,995 + VAT including the UK Government’s Plug-In Car Grant.