Budget hybrid is coming

Based on the Rio saloon, the model aims to be the first truly affordable petrol/electric car.

When full-scale production starts in 2009, the green newcomer should cost around £12,500. The Rio comes with an 88bhp 1.4-litre petrol engine that is linked to a 12kW electric motor which drives the front wheels through a CVT automatic gearbox. Plans have also been made for a 1.6-litre version with a 15kW motor.