SIX people from Bicester's eco town are switching to electric cars after signing up at the launch of a new scheme.

It comes just two months after the first residents moved into 91 homes completed on the site off Charlotte Avenue – dubbed Elmsbrook.

The aim of lead developers A2Dominion is for at least 10 per cent of its residents to switch to green forms of transport – including electric bikes and buses – by 2018.

The firm's strategic partnership manager Louise Caves said: "We are committed to shaping a range of alternative, more sustainable travel options for our residents at Elmsbrook."

People can hire vehicles from the E Car electric vehicle club from £4.50 an hour, including hire, power and insurance.

A2Dominion subsidised the cost of lifetime membership so residents could get it for half price at the launch with six hours' free use.

They could try out the new BMWi3 and Renault Zoe, which have a range of 70 to 90miles.

The launch also marked the start to a new bike loan scheme in partnership with Brompton Bikes.

Four fold-up bikes can be hired by eco town residents for a week at a time.

Ms Cave said: "Bromptons are a great way to get around town easily while providing added health benefits.

"We are passionate about getting people out on bikes and believe a free hire scheme will build appetite for this.

"Cycling is one of our planned alternative modes of travel to help minimise C02 emissions."

Alternative travel options to cut down the carbon footprint also include a new bus service provided by Grayline Coaches.

The route between the town centre and eco town, via Bicester Village Train Station, runs every 30 minutes. Developers say it is already popular with residents.

Brompton Bikes business development manager Georgia Lewis said: "Having Bromptons accessible to all is an easy and economical way to travel, so we’re pleased to be working with A2Dominion and providing these in such a pioneering sustainable community.

"The bikes fold down to a portable, practical size, and can be taken on buses or trains, even at peak times."