Foxtons, the estate agency firm famous for its minis, is to switch its enormous fleet of 850 cars to environmentally-friendly electric vehicles and has called for more charging points.

The firm has also announced that it is becoming a member of EV100, a global initiative from The Climate Group.

It is a huge transition for the firm whose iconic branded vehicles have helped symbolise London and where toy car model replicas have achieved big sums of money at auction including  eBay.

Nic Budden, chief executive officer of Foxtons, said: “We are delighted to be announcing our commitment to switch our fleet to electric vehicles by 2030 and becoming a member of EV100.

“By switching to electric transport, businesses can contribute to the reduction of millions of tons of greenhouse gas emissions per year, as well as curbing transport related air and noise pollution.

“However, there is a pressing need for a stronger EV infrastructure across London and the UK.

“Without increased charging points, greater access to ultra-fast charging and more off-road parking, businesses like ours, which often require frequent and rapid vehicle charging, will find the transition extremely challenging.

“We support the Mayor of London’s vision for an expansion of London’s EV-charging network but ask that this roll-out is accelerated so more businesses can make the switch sooner.”

Foxtons said it is also calling for greater transparency around future EV costs, including company car tax rates and expiry dates of existing grants, and for more support with the upfront costs incurred while upgrading an entire fleet to electric.

Sandra Roling, head of EV100 at The Climate Group, said: “We congratulate Foxtons on committing to switch its entire fleet to electric vehicles by 2030.

“This is a great example of how companies can accelerate the shift to cleaner transport – reducing emissions and making our cities more liveable with healthier air.

“We are sure Foxtons’ leadership will inspire many other well-known high street brands to follow suit.”