Electric vehicle initiative in Va.

Nissan Motor Co.'s battery-powered Leaf vehicle. (Bloomberg)

Virginia's public and private sectors are partnering on an initiative to increase the use of electric vehicles in the state.

Gov. Bob McDonnell says state and local governments, utilities, civic groups, businesses and other entities are working on the Virginia “Get Ready” plan.

McDonnel said Wednesday that the electrification effort initially will target Northern Virginia, Charlottesville, Richmond and Hampton Roads, based on predictions of likely adoption.

The governor says electric vehicles will be an important means of transportation in the future, and they should be integrated into the existing transportation system as soon as it's feasible.

-- Associated Press