Drivers can now top up their electric cars quicker than their mobile phones thanks to Islington’s first “rapid” roadside charging point.

And 100 more chargers will be installed over the next year as the town hall takes a leading role in cleaning up London’s air quality.

The device – at the junction of Sheringham Road and Lough Road – can give cars an 80 per cent boost in 30 minutes, much quicker than the existing ones, which take up to four hours.

It is hoped the fact charging can be done on a lunch break will appeal to motorists, with couriers, minicab drivers and other commercial drivers being encouraged to make the shift to electrical cars.

The move will also be music to the ears of black cab drivers, as from January 1, all black cabs licensed in the capital will have to be battery-powered hybrids.

The next rapid device is set to be installed in Archway before the end of the year.

Once all 100 docks are up and running, Islington will have one of the biggest networks in the country to cater for electric motors. Some chargers will be attached to lampposts, and they will still take three to four hours to fully charge.

The town hall’s environment boss Cllr Claudia Webbe said: “Investing in next generation chargers is absolutely essential for Islington.

“We need to move away from toxic diesel vehicles to clean up the air we breathe.

“I’m proud that once again Islington is leading the way in clean, sustainable transport in London.

“The council is committed to improving air quality in the borough and the development of charging points for electric vehicles is just one of the many ground-breaking and innovative actions we are taking to clean up the air we breathe.

“We are committed to making charging easier and more practical.”

Permits are required to use the chargers. They cost £67 for the first year and £20 a year after that.

The town hall will also be speaking to drivers about the possibility of setting up pay-as-you-go systems.

Electric car drivers in Islington also get free parking as an incentive to make the switch.

For more information on electric cars visit islington.gov.uk/roads/electric-vehicles.