The deal follows a similar one signed between British Gas and Nissan, Renault's Alliance partner.

Renault quotes market analysis showing that British Gas will be the preferred supplier for 70% of the electric vehicle market in the UK in 2012.

It adds that research shows that 59% of charging in 2020 will be at home, compared to 32% at work and only 9% will use public charging.

Drivers will pay from £995 including VAT for the domestic installation of a charging point, which is said to be more convenient and safer than plugging vehicles directly into the home electricity system and will cut the charging time by a third. Drivers will also be offered three years' free Home Electrical Care, which gives unlimited call-outs for all home electrical repairs, including parts and labour.

British Gas has also recently announced an electricity tariff designed specifically for electric car owners. This will make it cheaper to charge vehicles overnight and could save customers as much as £1,200 a year compared to owners of petrol vehicles. British Gas is trialling the tariff with customers this summer and the new tariff will be fully available from the beginning of 2012. All customers on the tariff will have a smart meter installed which will give them access to flexible "time of use" tariffs, eliminating estimated bills and give them access to smart appliances.

Thierry Sybord, managing director of Renault UK, said: 'The electric revolution is on its way and Renault is leading the pack with its full range of electric vehicles. Partnering with British Gas, Britain's biggest supplier of electricity to homes, means Renault Z.E. customers can access competitive, quality charging technology and rely upon a prompt and professional service. We selected British Gas for the strength of their service network, the quality and competitiveness of the wallbox offering and the strength of their marketing.'