Essex County Council, as part of a countywide project called ChargeAhead, are asking residents for their views about electric cars. The survey, which aims to identify key issues or barriers to take up, will also help guide the development of a sustainable transport policy.

Subject to funding, Essex Highways plan to create a network of rapid charging point for electric vehicles at strategic locations across Essex. The network will connect major towns and ensure that the use of electric vehicles in Essex is a practical reality.

If the funding is successful, Essex County Council will be working with partners such as British Gas, Renault-Nissan Alliance and major supermarkets in order to implement the network of charging points. It is envisaged that the network would be self-funding through usage.

The Electric Car Survey can be accessed via www.essexhighways.org and clicking on the Smarter Travel Choices page.