A set of recommendations to standardise the charging of electric cars has been laid out by European car manufacturers to accelerate the take up of electric car driving. The proposals will allow the use of one type of plug independent of car make, electricity provider or country.

Ivan Hodac, Secretary General of European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) said: “This is a major step towards the broader introduction of electrically-chargeable vehicles in Europe and paves the way for a harmonised solution around the globe. We call on the European Commission, the standardisation bodies and the infrastructure providers to adopt these recommendations and to clear remaining issues as soon as possible.”

The ACEA are calling for the plans to come into place from 2017. They say a standard charging type will benefit all parties involved: the auto industry, the consumer and the infrastructure provider.

Mr Hodac said putting this groundwork in would give the new sector confidence: “Standardisation provides predictability to investors; it enables economy of scale and reduces costs. We have also ensured a solution that meets the highest safety standards and is easy to use.”