Simultaneously announcing a 100 per cent discount on the congestion charge for electric vehicles, Mr Johnson reminded motorists that there were further savings from the Government’s £5,000 consumer incentive grant available for electric cars, which also qualify for nil-rate vehicle excise duty. But are his targets realistic? One man who has made environmental motoring his speciality is Jay Nagley, managing director of automotive analysts Redspy Automotive. “The target of 600,000 EVs, including hybrids, by 2020 is certainly achievable,” he said.

“Every major manufacturer will make a plug-in hybrid, starting with a plug-in version of the Toyota Prius, a new plug-in Ford and VW Golf, in 2013. Plus the extended-range Vauxhall Ampera hybrid will be on sale next year. All the car makers are following a similar script.”

Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders figures reveal steady growth in electric car registrations, with 289 put on the road last year compared to 450 so far this year. Read Full Story

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