Mitsubishi’s 110-strong UK dealer network will become electric vehicle (EV) centres before the end of this year.

The approved dealerships will have two EV sales personnel as well as aftersales technicians.

This means the entire network will be prepared to sell the i-Miev and Mitsubishi’s first plug-in hybrid which will arrive in the UK within the next 18 months.

Lance Bradley, Mitsubishi Motors UK’s managing director, reiterated Mitsubishi’s intentions to continue to promote and establish the EV and plug-in hybrid technology in the UK market place.

He said: “Staff will undertake an extensive training programme so that there is a very clear understanding of the demands and requirements of electric vehicles for consumers, as well as an awareness of the wider industry issues relating to the EV marketplace.

“Their aftersales departments will also comply with compulsory manufacturer training and require specialist tools to enable the service and maintenance of electric vehicles.”

All Mitsubishi EV Centres will have Mitsubishi i-Miev demonstrator vehicles that will be available for customers to properly test and experience over a prolonged period so they can discover for themselves what it is like to drive and ‘own’ an electric vehicle in real-life conditions.

This will make Mitsubishi the largest EV dealer network in the UK providing sales and aftersales coverage.