British buyers of its new Volvo plug-in hybrid models will be offered one year of free electricity, in a new initiative by the car manufacturer.

Volvo is aiming for zero-tailpipe-emission electric driving and believes reimbursing drivers for their energy costs is a way to boost interest.

The offer is available across the seven Volvo plug-in hybrid cars that are purchased between now until June 30, 2020.

Kristian Elvefors, managing director at Volvo Car UK, said: "At Volvo, in keeping with our Swedish roots, we've always taken a keen interest in looking after the environment.

“Our recently stated ambition to become a carbon-neutral company by 2040 shows we are serious about addressing climate change.

"It's crucial that we help our plug-in hybrid customers understand how they can make the most of their car's electric potential.

“So, by meeting their electricity charging costs for a year, we can encourage them to develop the good habit of regularly recharging their car's battery, as well as saving them money at the same time."

Drivers’ reimbursement, available to retail and corporate purchasers, will be paid at the end of the first 12-months of use, with the amount being repaid being calculated on the average price of UK electricity.

Volvo wants to be a carbon-neutral global business by 2040, and has set the target of cutting 40% of its carbon footprint by 2025, reducing the environmental impact on its manufacturing, supply chain, logistics and its other operations.