Central Bedfordshire Council news and press releases

Electric Vehicle car club comes to Leighton-Linslade

Friday, 10 March 2023

We have launched our first electric vehicle car share scheme based at the Chamberlains Barn development in Leighton-Linslade.

Working in partnership with Arnold White Energy (AWE) and car-sharing platform company Hiyacar, residents will have access to an attractive and affordable electric car for journeys they wish to make. The car club is located at the electric vehicle charging station on the development off Kemsley Drive. Users can download the Hiyacar app to sign up and hire the Renault Zoe electric vehicle.

We have funded the scheme for 3 years – using Section 106 developer contribution funds.

Councillor Steven Dixon, Executive Member for Sustainability and Transformation, said:

We’re delighted to be able to offer residents living locally to the Chamberlains Barn development, low-cost and easy access to an electric vehicle on their doorstep. Providing affordable and sustainable transport options to residents across Central Bedfordshire is a priority for the council, as we continue our efforts in tackling the climate challenge.

This pilot is part of a suite of sustainable travel infrastructure improvements and projects we’re delivering to residents in the area, including a free town-wide bus service for six months and improving walking and cycling routes.

The pilot will enable local residents the opportunity to use an electric vehicle for the first time at a low cost, with no long-term commitment.

Keith Stark, Business Development Lead at Hiyacar said: 

Hiyacar is thrilled to be a part of this EV car club launch in Central Bedfordshire - giving local residents affordable access to a sustainable transport option. We're excited to see how this car club develops and grows with the addition of more EVs in the near future.

The electric vehicle car club is open for all residents to book by downloading the Hiyacar app which has information on car availability and pricing. Additional cars will be added to the fleet as more locations become available.