The evolution of the electric vehicle

From the first Teslas to robot cabs, a lot has changed in a decade

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The shift to electric vehicles (EVs) has been on the cards for some time. About ten years ago, people began to buy electric cars as a way of reducing their carbon footprint and cutting the cost of their fuel bills. Models such as the Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi i-MiEV were the cars of choice for early adopters, but their limited range and high prices meant they were something of a rarity on Britain’s roads.

A lot can change in a decade. Advances in battery technology mean electric cars now travel much further on a single charge, while competitive finance options and government grants serve to draw buyers away from combustion-engined rivals. The switch will have a huge impact on life as we know it. Petrol stations could make way for charging facilities, roads will become far quieter and - crucially - pollution levels will plummet.

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