Wessex Garages’ 54% increase in the sale of ultra-low emission vehicles from quarter two to three is “testament to manufacturers”, according to managing director Keith Brock.

The group, which has three showrooms in Bristol, has previously been a pioneer of Nissan Leaf sales but is now benefitting from the introduction of Kia’s Niro hybrid, with a plug-in version of the Optima also being introduced by the Korean brand.

Brock said: “In the last year we have seen ultra-low emission (ULEVs) vehicles grow in popularity.

“Nationally uptake of ULEVs has increased by 49% in the last quarter, according to Department for Transport (DfT) figures, and we’re experiencing the same effect here in Bristol, and at our other outlets in the South West and South Wales.

“But we’re going better than this and beating this trend by a further 5%. Proving our customers are keen to be green and the vehicles we’re providing are matching their motoring aspirations.”

Brock added: “These statistics are a testament to work that the manufacturers have been doing to create ultra-low emission vehicles that people want to drive, and that have the technology and functionality they require, suiting their lifestyles.

“These developments are making a real difference in encouraging people to choose ULEVs over others.”

Wessex took delivery of Kia’s Niro in early August and the newcomer will soon be joined by the Hyundai IONIQ, the first car in the world to offer separate hybrid, full electric and plug in hybrid powertrains within one body type.

Many of Bristol’s leading organisations are already fans of electric vehicles.

The University of Bristol took delivery of four 100% electric, Nissan e-NV200 Combi vans from Wessex last month.

In July, Bristol Airport took its second electric vehicle from the dealership – another Nissan e-NV200 Combi van.

Wessex has also supplied seven 100% electric Nissan Leafs to the Gloucestershire Constabulary – three marked police cars for use in urban areas and four unmarked vehicles for use in other operations.

Brock said: “It’s a pleasure to be working with big organisations such as the Airport and the University of Bristol, as well as other businesses of all sizes in the area on projects like this.

“But of course it’s equally important for the general public to embrace these developments and to now be considering ULEVs as a credible vehicle of choice for the future, and these figures clearly illustrate this in now happening and we’re delighted.”