The cars are part of the same fleet used by the BMW Group in a year-long trial that finished this summer, aimed at informing future electric vehicle development for its BMW i sub brand, and will be made available to employees at EDF’s offices in the south of England and Sunderland. Charging posts have already been installed at each location.

Starting this week, the energy supplier will also use the vehicles to tour local eco-conscious schools listed on its “Pod” scheme, before making them available as part of the official London 2012 fleet next summer.

Gareth Wynn, director of EDF’s 2012 programme said: ‘Electric cars are already a lower carbon choice, but as we progress with decarbonising electricity production in the UK over the coming years the environmental case will get stronger and stronger.

‘The MINI E shows that electric cars can appeal to people who like to drive and who enjoy cars. They also show that low carbon electric transport is a realistic prospect for the future that can contribute to UK carbon reduction targets. Our partnership with fellow London 2012 sustainability partner, BMW Group, fits perfectly with EDF’s ambitions to be a leader in low carbon solutions.’