The trial forms part of the Tokyu Corporation’s Yokohama Mobility Project Zero, which aims to increase the uptake of low-carbon transport in the city. Supported by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, a group of seven urban mothers are being given the vehicles for an extended test-drive, with feedback given to stakeholders.

Akihiko Hoshi, of the Ministry, said: ‘This kind of vehicle is still very new in Japan, so I think it is important to take time to teach people how to use it safely," said Hoshi. "We are planning to have a trial period of three years first, and hope that by 2015 the infrastructure associated with the vehicle will be in place so that we can officially launch it.’

Nissan has previously used Yokohama to trial its e-NV200 electric van, with the Japan Postal Service two years ago.