Speaking to Norwegian news channel NRK, Ivar Christiansen, director of the Public Roads Administration, said: ‘It is positive that we are increasing the electrification of our vehicle fleet, but it is also important for the environment that we have an efficient public transport.

‘If cars are starting to make traction problems and delays for public transport, it is not desirable.’

Norway is one of Europe’s largest electric vehicle markets, owing in part to VAT being removed from the purchase price, but also to free inner-city charging points, exemption from tolls, specific parking and access to bus lanes during rush hours.

The result is 2,700 electric vehicle sales to date, more per capita than in any other country, with sales focused in Oslo. NRK said critics argue it has led to extra inner-city congestion as people switch from pushbikes and public transport to an electric car.

Christiansen added that any benefits would have to stay in place until 2017, but that the situation was being closely watched by the Administration.