A CUSTOMER support scheme for electric vehicle users has been launched in the North-East.

It comes as the region positions itself as a hub for electric vehicle development and is intended to make it as easy as possible for drivers to change to low-carbon transport.

The Charge Your Car scheme will be delivered by Elektromotive on behalf of development agency One North East.

The firm will install 1,300 charging points in the North- East over the next three years through the Plugged-In Places project.

The development was announced yesterday at the Cenex LCV 2010 event.

Dr Colin Herron, manufacturing and productivity manager at One North East, said: “We are rapidly approaching a time when electric vehicles become a familiar sight on the roads.

“To ensure this dynamic new industry can grow to its full potential, it is vital that we make sure there are no barriers preventing drivers from making the switch to low-carbon transport.”

Calvey Taylor-Haw, managing director of Elektromotive, said: “We are creating an electric vehicle recharging infrastructure, with a fully integrated back office management suit that will be a showcase for the world.”

For the support scheme, which starts on October 1, drivers will register at charge yourcar.org.uk to receive an electronic tag to open and use charge posts around the region, and give them access to free parking while charging.

The website will also provide information on charging point locations, journey planning and links to the Switch EV vehicle trial.

Drivers registered on the site will also be able to access telephone support.