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British Gas has taken on a pair of Mercedes-Benz Vito E-Cells to transport employees between its offices in London.

The acquisition of the vans is part of the energy giant's move to replace at least 10% of its fleet of 13,000 vans with electric vehicles by 2017.

The vans have been fitted with the firm's livery, which also proclaims the vehicles' zero-emission credentials. When not in use, they are parked in front of the firm's building where charging points have been installed on pillars.

The vehicles were supplied by Mercedes-Benz Retail Group and are the subject of a CharterWay contract hire agreement with the German firm's financial services arm, which includes all repair and maintenance work and 24-hour emergency assistance cover.

"We're committed to reducing our carbon emissions and minimising the impact of our operations on the local environment. These new vehicles, which produce no pollutants and are also exceptionally quiet in operation, will help to strengthen our commitment," said James Rooney, British Gas electric vehicle specialist.