Four companies in Beijing are piloting a new transport scheme involving 70 electric-powered minivans, with the help of subsidies from the municipal government.

Officials from Beijing Municipal Commission of Commerce said the vehicles will be used to deliver all kinds of goods including electronics, tobacco and vegetables.

The trial will last a year starting Tuesday. The vehicles, which do not consume any gasoline, are not only environmentally friendly but will also save on transport costs, said the commission.