CHANCELLOR Jeremy Hunt’s Budget last week delivered nothing to speed up the transition from internal combustion cars to more environmentally friendly electric models.

Business users continue to enjoy tax benefits but, with EVs being more expensive than conventional models, incentives are needed to help private motorists make the switch.

An announcement this week from Romanian brand Dacia will make EV ownership affordable for a greater number of private owners.

Due to arrive here in October, the battery-electric Dacia Spring will cost from just £14,995. The Spring is many thousands cheaper than rival products.

Dacia claim the Spring has a ‘useable’ range of up to 137 miles. Its urban rating of up to 186 miles is awaiting certification.

There are two power levels. The Expression 45 costs £14,995 and the Expression 65 is £15,995. Standard features include air conditioning, electric front windows, cruise control and rear parking sensors.

Available only in 65 guise and priced at £16,995, the Extreme’s specification includes satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and electric rear windows.

Dacia UK brand director Luke Broad said: “Spring has played a key part in widespread adoption of EVs across Europe and, with a price that is even lower than speculated, we’re confident it will continue the success story in the UK.

“We have listened to the concerns of UK drivers regarding accessing EVs, ensuring it not only has an unprecedented price but affordability that does not come at the expense of durability, equipment or usability.

“Quite simply, there’s no other new EV on sale that offers so much for so little.”

The Spring can be pre-ordered with a £99 deposit via www.dacia.co.uk