Mercedes-Benz Retail and Smart dealers are installing recharging points across the retailer network in preparation for the widespread uptake of electric vehicles.

"Electric motoring is upon us,” said Mercedes-Benz Retail managing director, Neil Williamson.

“We want to be prepared for the future. Our Smart electric drive, which we have begun trialling, is creating a lot of interest and by putting a recharging infrastructure in place, we are helping to encourage motorists to join the emerging zero-emission revolution.”

So far, 20 Elektrobay recharging units, produced by Brighton-based Elektromotive, have been installed at six retail sites, plus Mercedes-Benz UK headquarters in Milton Keynes, as part of a pilot project by Mercedes-Benz UK.

Managing Director of Elektromotive, Calvey Taylor-Haw added: “This is the first time that Elektromotive has worked so closely with a vehicle manufacturer to install recharging points at sites. It is an exciting development in the creation of a nationwide recharging infrastructure and is an approach we expect to be copied by other retail networks in the UK.”.