A range of leading parcel delivery firms have united to promote the use of electric transport in London.

Parcel delivery firms including DHL, TNT and UPS are involved in a major London-based scheme designed to promote the use of electric vehicles.

The companies, which already use such transport in the capital, are to work with City Hall to share their efforts with other London firms and encourage them to do the same.

It is believed the plans are part of the efforts of mayor Boris Johnson to make the city the electric vehicle capital of Europe.

He said: "Not only do electric vehicles save a large sum off fuel bills, helping businesses to remain lean in tough economic times, they are also great for London's environment.

"We are now going to work hand-in-hand with fleet owners to accelerate the take-up of electric vehicles, which are available to buy right now."

News of DHL's involvement in the scheme has come after the company outlined new proposals to boost the environmental awareness of its staff.

Article Added: 09/06/2009 15:59:03