IT’S set to become one of the biggest industries on the planet and there are ambitious moves to ensure Hampshire has a major part to play in it.

Sales of “plug in” electric cars such as the Tesla, pictured, are expected to top three million a year worldwide by 2015 from near zero today.

In a bid to ensure Hampshire firms are ready to cash in on the boom, the Solent Innovation & Growth (SIG) team has organised an Electric Vehicle Forum for local firms making parts that could be used in the manufacture of greener cars, vans and bikes.

The aim is to put the area and its legion of cutting edge technology firms at the centre of a new supply chain for the industry.

SIG’s Arthur Monks said: “The Solent area could be a big player in this still emerging industry as we have such a rich seam of technology expertise, but we think most companies are unaware of the potential opportunities.

“If you are not already in the low carbon or electric vehicle field, your technology and production processes may only be a very small step away.

“The event will try to establish a network with the collective DNA to create the next automotive supply chain.”

He expects the audience on the day to include entrepreneurs, company chief executives and engineering directors from firms across the region interested in tapping into the lucrative new stream of business.

Mr Monks added: “Because of societal changes, the impact of legislation and the need to be greener, electrification of vehicles will become an ever growing trend. That in turn will fundamentally change the way cars, vans and bikes are manufactured and sold.

“As well as the obvious benefits of zero emissions, electric vehicles can attract stimulus grants for producers and suppliers. Now is the time to get our regional strategy together and ensure our companies are at the forefront of this emerging industry.”

It takes place at 1000 Lakeside in Portsmouth on November 24, from 8am to 1pm. For more information and to register or exhibit, visit their website.