The Vauxhall Ampera has been involved in a UK first after it was used in a special driving test.
Learner driver Navdeep Singh, 18, became the first person in the nation to take the practical driving test in an electric vehicle – and, behind the wheel of the Ampera, he passed first time.
Mr Singh learned how to drive the Ampera – which has a range of up to 360 miles and aims to promote eco-motoring – while taking a course with the Red Driving School, an organisation with strong ties to Vauxhall.
As part of this relationship, the driving company has signed up to lease 1,000 cars from the manufacturer every year.
Ian MacIntosh, chief executive officer of Red Driving School, said the group is delighted to have played a role in helping a young driver pass his test in an electric car.
Mr MacIntosh explained it is important to introduce young people to the latest driving technologies as soon as possible, observing: "The Ampera is a leading edge car and reflects the dynamic nature of RED Driving School. As well as being easy to drive, the Ampera offers great efficiency and good all round performance."
Paul Adler, fleet marketing and motability manager at Vauxhall, noted many youngsters develop an affinity for the car model that they learn to drive in and therefore decide to purchase the vehicle once they obtain their licence.
The association between the manufacturer and Red Driving School might therefore result in an increasing number of people searching for the latest Vauxhall deals over the coming years.
Mr Adler stated: "We're delighted that Navdeep has passed his test in the Ampera and look forward to many new drivers opting to drive more environmentally friendly vehicles."
Vauxhall also provides its economical supermini – the Vauxhall Corsa 1.3 CDTi ecoFLEX –
to the driving school, while instructors and learner drivers on the courses will also become eligible for the carmaker's Partners Programme and the Flexible Finance scheme.
For the best Vauxhall deals, go to Cars2Buy.
Posted by Fred Mason