It will be used as a pool car for trust officers during their work in maintaining 30 nature reserves throughout Sussex.

The MINI E is one of 35 that EDF has leased in the UK after teaming up with fellow London 2012 sponsor BMW Group. During the London Games, 30 of the MINI Es will become part of the BMW Group London 2012 official vehicle fleet.

Martin Elliott, part of EDF Energy’s electric vehicle team, said: ‘We hope the charity will quickly see the great benefits it will provide of reduced motoring costs and impact on the environment.

‘We hope that using the car will not only inspire the charity but will also be a good talking point with the local community to think about how they can reduce their carbon footprint through investing in electric vehicle technology.’

Mark Anscombe, grants and business development officer at Sussex Wildlife Trust, said: ‘We are keen to experience the technology for what seems likely to be the sustainable solution to the future of transport. We are thrilled to be receiving this exciting technology on loan.’

EDF Energy works with Sussex Wildlife Trust through its Helping Hands scheme, which allows employees at least two paid days a year volunteering to support local community and environmental causes.