Wandsworth police are trialling their first ever electric car.

The borough's police force is now testing it's first zero-emissions electric powered response vehicle as part of a six-month trial.

The BMW i3 Range Extender is being used on patrols and to respond to police incidents.

The move is part of an initiative to improve air quality across the borough. 

Chief Superintendent, Richard Smith said: "We are delighted to have the opportunity to trial this environmentally friendly response vehicle in Wandsworth. 

"Our aim is to ensure that Wandsworth is a safe place for anyone who lives, works or visits here; this vehicle allows us to do so whilst also playing our part in helping to improve air quality, which must be a good thing."

The vehicle is being loaned to the Metropolitan Police Service by BMW to test the future possibilities of using electric response cars as part of the regular fleet.

Jonathan Cook, Wandsworth Council's environment spokesman, said: “It’s great to see Wandsworth borough police exploring the role electric vehicles can play in their operations. 

"Air quality is a major issue right across London and embracing electric motoring has the potential to make a real difference. We hope the trial is a success.”