EIGHT new rapid chargers for electric vehicles are to be installed around York after the city secured £244,500 in extra funding for the low-emission transport scheme.

The points will be able to charge an electric car in about 20 minutes and will be set up at Park&Ride sites and other locations, including the York Sport Village in Heslington.

The money has come from the Department for Transport following a bid by City of York Council to support a national campaign promoting environmentally friendly vehicles.

The chargers are part of the council’s strategy to combat York’s air pollution problems.

Coun Dave Merrett, the authority’s cabinet member for transport and sustainability, said: “This is excellent news for York – we are determined to improve air quality and the city’s carbon footprint and this is another great step forward.

"Electric vehicles produce 50 to 60 per cent less CO2 and zero air-pollution emissions, with lower running costs than diesel, which makes them a cost-effective alternative for businesses and organisations.”

More information about the charging points is at itravelyork.com