Green performance from Lotus

Lotus has developed a hybrid car, which it believes delivers the best of both worlds with high performance and low carbon dioxide emissions.

The car is based on a Vauxhall Astra and uses Lotus's own 1.5-litre engine.

The high-tech engine produces 15% less carbon dioxide than a normal 1.8-litre petrol engine while providing 15% more power.

A new generation of electric motor is used to collect energy that would otherwise be wasted when the car is slowing down.

This electric motor saves energy as its presence means that the engine does not have to work so hard to generate electricity, which saves fuel.

Mike Kimberly, chief executive of Lotus, said: "We have delivered a car that engages and excites the keen motorist with superb power yet it has a lower impact on the environment."

Transport Minister Jim Fitzpatrick said: "This engine raises the standard for others to meet."

Alisdair Suttie

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