Lord Mayor could get electric car

In a radical break from tradition, council bosses are considering replacing the ageing Lord Mayor's limousine with a new electric car, a Nissan Leaf.

Hull City Council's Civic Committee says the current vehicle is due for renewal and a sponsorship deal with the private sector could save money.

The authority is in talks with its businesses partners who have said that they would be willing to purchase a new car and cover the running costs.

Coun Dave Woods, Portfolio Holder for Environmental Sustainability, said: "The addition of a new state of the art zero emissions vehicle is an example of the council's commitment to the environment and reducing fuel consumption.

"The proposed sponsorship arrangement means that the purchase and running of the vehicle will come at no cost to the tax- payer."

The Nissan Leaf is one of two high profile cars being launched by the motor industry next year. With a 5,000 Government incentive the Leaf will cost 23,990.