Sales of electric cars and other plug-in vehicles have increased rapidly, according to the Department for Transport, with a record number of people taking advantage of government grants.

The Plug-in Car Grant reduces the price of ultra low emission vehicles (ULEVs) by up to £5,000 for cars and £8,000 for vans.

Between July and September 2014, over 5,000 grants were provided, more than double the number in the previous three months and almost a third of all grants since the scheme was launched in 2010. There are now over 17,000 grant-funded ULEVs on the UK’s roads.

Transport minister Baroness Kramer said: “It is not surprising that people want these vehicles – they are a pleasure to drive and incredibly cheap to run, as well as beneficial to the environment. The government is breaking down barriers that may have put people off in the past.

“This growing confidence helps the UK strengthen its position as a global leader in developing green technology. Expanding this sector is also creating thousands of jobs and contributing to Britain’s thriving £11bn automotive industry, and encouraging more investment in the UK – a key part of this government’s long-term economic plan.

“All new vehicles will have some kind of ULEV element by 2040. There has been a steady rise in the number of people taking up low emission vehicles, as more models become available and the nationwide network of charging points continues to expand. Driving costs are as low as 2p per mile.”