A service being billed as a four-wheel alternative to Boris bikes has been launched in Waltham Forest.

DriveNow has launched the 39p pay-by-the-minute hire system, which will allow people to use an iPhone app to locate cars and pick a spot to drop them off.

The company says its scheme differs from others as there is no set drop-off point and customers can park in any free residential parking space.

The scheme already operates in Hackney, Haringey and Islington.

Joseph Seal-Driver, UK Head of DriveNow said: “You can unlock the car via the app or by simply swiping your customer card over the windscreen.

"Launching in a fourth borough just eight weeks after launch is a further validation and we look forward to becoming one additional part of the way people move in Waltham Forest and London.”

DriveNow is also supported by CarPlus, a not-for-profit organization that promotes low-carbon alternatives to traditional car use in the UK.

Councillor Clyde Loakes, deputer council leader and cabinet member for environment, added: “Today is a great day for the residents of Waltham Forest.

“The unique business model will allow people across our borough all the benefits and flexibility that driving offers, without the burden or cost of ownership.

"The three launch boroughs have seen their residents embrace the arrival of DriveNow and we look forward to witnessing a similar reaction across Waltham Forest from today.”