A new tech start-up launching a zero emissions car service has teamed up with British Gas to get 1,000 EVs on the road by the end of 2014.

Thriev’s all electric fleet will hit the tarmac in autumn powered by the Carbon Zero Rapid-Charging Network.

The network will be installed, maintained and supplied by British Gas with all power used effectively coming from renewable sources. The energy supplier says the rapid charge service will be able to fill a car’s batteries from 20-80% in just 20 minutes.

Andreas Atkins, Head of Electric Vehicle Services at British Gas said: “Innovations like Thriev make it possible for businesses to have the best of both worlds, making major reductions in their carbon footprint and saving money at the same time.

“We’re aiming to convert 10% of our fleet to electric vehicles by 2015 and we’re glad to be helping other businesses to do the same.

Last month British Gas announced it was working with Volvo to provide free home charging points.