A total of seven LEAFs have been placed at electric vehicle charging bays across Edinburgh for use by members of City Car Club, with a further 13 new electric vehicles to arrive in the coming weeks.

The usual time rate will apply to Nissan LEAF users, costing £6.20 per hour, or £52 for a whole day. Each LEAF will also be fitted with telematics technology, which will allow City Car Club to receive constant updates on the condition of the cars, so that maintenance can be scheduled quickly and efficiently without affecting availability to members.  

Brian Swallow, managing director of City Car Club, said: “From our experience in the daily rental market, we know that the public is really curious about electric vehicles, although some people are concerned about driving longer distances in them. Getting people in these vehicles breaks down those barriers.”   

City of Edinburgh Council’s Transport Convener, Councillor Lesley Hinds, added: “The use of electric vehicles for car sharing is an effective way of reducing traffic congestion and the harmful effects of vehicle emissions and we welcome any initiative that provides increased access to sustainable forms of transport.”