When you think of green hotspots around the world, Arkansas is unlikely to feature on the list. However, students at Hendrix College in the state have firmly caught the green bug.

Students and staff have been making huge strides towards green living by implementing geothermal heating in dorms and offering a major in environmental studies. Now, they are introducing electric cars on the grounds.

Speaking about the decision to bring electric cars to the college, Mark Scott, director of media relations, commented that as the fleet of college vehicles grew older they felt it was the right choice to replace them with eco-friendly alternatives even if it meant spending a little extra upfront.

The vehicles are made by Chrysler and run completely by battery meaning they have no direction emissions. Instead they can simply be charged at a regular outlet but there are concerns that the batteries are only expected to last between three and five years.

Although the vehicles will not leave campus they are still equipped with hard doors and heaters so they can be used in all weathers. The Conway Police Department, which utilises the same environmentally friendly car for patrolling downtown parking, helped the college reach the decision to use these green cars.