By Ismail Khwaja

Kent has topped a list detailing the most eco-friendly drivers in the UK after officials revealed "surprising" sales figures of second-hand electric and hybrid cars.

According to data experts Cazana, 4.8% of second hand car sales in the county are electric and hybrid cars - the highest proportion in the country.

Argyll and Bute in Scotland followed in second place with 4.5% and Greater London ranked fifth with just over 3%.

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Ben Lowe, professor of marketing at the University of Kent, said: “Kent has a good area geographically for the infrastructure of electric cars.

“Certain parts of the county are quite urbanised and if you look at where the number of electric vehicles are highest - it’s in places like Sevenoaks, Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Malling.

“These are obviously urban areas, relatively densely populated, also high income areas.”

Across the UK, there are 6,584 charging locations - according to Zap Map, which helps to find the nearest one through their website and phone app.

The Liberal Democrats reported there were 90 charging points in Kent in May.

Mr Lowe added: “What may be happening is this idea of ‘network effects’ where people are seeing other people, friends, family members, and seeing the benefits that they get from having the electric car.

“Some of the negatives they had initially perceived are no longer negatives.”

Last year the government pledged to ban all new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2040, in an effort to reduce roadside nitrogen dioxide emissions.

Tom Wood, chief executive officer of Cazan, said: “These latest figures are truly surprising, turning public perceptions on its head.

"It’s fantastic to see electric and hybrid cars being embraced by all areas across the UK.

“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, these are a great option for many.”