SMALL business owners that want to cut commute emissions and costs now have a viable answer: the launch of e-motive.

There are three electric scooters in the range that can be powered from the mains.

The e1, e3 and e5 use an electric motor and battery technology to get riders from A to B without the CO2 in between. The scooters are road tax exempt and cost as little as one penny per mile to run, says e-motive.

The e-motive range is available through a 25-strong nationwide network of dealers, who will be offering advice and test drives.

Owners of an e-motive will get a two-year, unlimited mileage warranty and two-year AA roadside assistance.

“Until now, the drawbacks associated with owning electric vehicles meant they have been reserved for the most committed environmentalists,” said Paul Williams, e-motive managing director.

“But the reliability, and all-round consumer package that comes with these scooters finally makes owning and running a zero-emissions vehicle affordable, supremely practical and desirable.”

Williams said owners simply had to plug an e-motive scooter into a standard socket at home or office to cover up to 80 miles on a single charge. Speeds are as high as 65mph.

There are three models: e1, e2 and e5. Prices range from £1399 to £3999. Further information from www.e-motiveuk.co.uk.

Launch of new e-motive scooter brand