MEMBERS of the public now have the chance to try out one of the new breed of fully electric vehicle here in Cornwall.

Volvo Car UK has launched a test drive facility at the Eden Project near St Austell.

The firm, which has committed to being an electric-only car manufacturer by 2030, has a long-term partnership with the Cornish environmental attraction.

 Visitors will be able to pre-book to test drive either the Volvo XC40 Recharge pure electric or the new C40 Recharge pure electric – and a number of walk-in slots will also be available.

A spokesperson for Volvo said: “The Eden Project provides the perfect location to launch the Volvo Pure Electric Test Drive Hub, helping to tackle some of the challenges and concerns consumers have around purchasing and driving electric cars, especially in remote areas, and helping accelerate consumer uptake of zero-emission vehicles.”

Kristian Elvefors, managing director of Volvo Car UK, said: “At Volvo, we recognise we have been part of the problem and are working extremely hard to ensure that our next generation of cars leave as little impact as possible.

“Our latest model, the C40 Recharge pure electric, demonstrates this commitment, right down to how it is manufactured and the amount of recycled material used within the car.”

Sir Tim Smit, co-founder of the Eden Project, said: “We’re delighted to be partnered with a company that really walks the talk. There is a quiet revolution going on and we want to be part of this transformation.”

For more information visit www.volvocars.com/uk/cars/eden-project