EAST Renfrewshire is doing its bit to save the planet as one of the top areas in the UK for electric vehicle purchases.

The local authority is among the top 20 areas when it comes to the highest percentage of sales for used electric and hybrid cars.

One in every 50 vehicles bought in East Renfrewshire runs on electricity, according to new figures released by car data firm Cazana.

Tom Wood, CEO of Cazana, said: “Used cars are the smart choice for drivers who want to help the planet but also their pockets too.

“New electric cars can cost up to £28,000 fresh off the tarmac whereas a used one can come in at just £5,000 – so, provided these have been serviced and looked after properly, they are a great option for many.”

Six Scottish regions have been listed in the UK’s top 20 for used electric and hybrid sales, with Argyll and Bute coming second in the table.

The figures have led to Scotland being hailed as the UK’s “eco champion”, with Angus, North Ayrshire, Edinburgh and the Borders also outperforming other areas south of the border.

The upsurge in use of electric vehicles (EV) is being supported by the Scottish Government, which has pledged to phase out new petrol and diesel cars by 2032.

This has led to investment in charging points, with almost 1,000 now in place in Scotland.

Richard Dixon, director of Friends of the Earth Scotland, said: “These figures clearly show that strong political commitment and real investment on the ground really do influence the choices people make.

“With concern high over the health impact of air pollution from cars and traffic, which are the largest source of climate change emissions, electric vehicles are clearly a major part of how we need to transform transport in Scotland.”