Chinese manufacturer BYD has sent 50 of its e6 electric cars for trialling with UK fleet operators.

The company says these right-hand drive models have been ‘fully homologated for use on European roads’ and are ‘in the process of being registered’.

They will be going into service with a number of fleets, including private hire operations.

BYD is the fastest-growing Chinese car manufacturer and the e6 boasts a range 186 miles.

Managing director of BYD Europe, Isbrand Ho, commented: “We are very excited with the arrival of our e6 pure electric cars in the UK.

“The e6 has zero tailpipe emissions and also benefits from significantly lower running costs than conventional petrol or diesel cars.

“The model is well-proven, having driven over 14m miles in key global markets.”

BYD is a pioneer in pure electric cars, vans and trucks. In 2008, entrepreneur Warren Buffett invested $232m to take a 9.89% stake in the company.