Volvo ReCharge

At a glance, you may think that the Volvo ReCharge is merely a C30 with a dodgy set of alloys and a dubious colour scheme, but in fact it represents Volvo's thinking on making its cars greener, but by starting out with a regular Volvo, not a purpose-built model.

In effect, the ReCharge is a hybrid that utilises a bio-ethanol fuelled engine along with a bank of rechargeable batteries. However, as well as having the hypothetical ability to extract about 124mpg, the ReCharge allows its owner to charge the batteries by plugging it into a mains supply. Theoretically that could allow a daily commute to be carried out with a very very rare trip to refuel. Of course, if your electricity supply comes from burning fossil fuels then it's not really as green as it's made out to be, but it's a start.

Tuesday December 4