UK-based car manufacturer Axon Automotive has previewed a new plug-in hybrid vehicle that runs on full electric mode in the city and uses a petrol or bioethanol powered internal combustion engine for long distance or motorway travel. The company claims that the lightweight two-seater model emits less than 50g of CO2 per km for the mix of electric and petrol modes."By designing light cars and giving them good aerodynamics you can radically lower vehicle emissions," said Axon's Managing Director, Dr Steve Cousins. "As a plug-in hybrid we have no limitation on range but we can maximise the benefits of electrics day to day without the cost and weight of large batteries," he added.
Priding themselves for their holistic eco-friendly approach, Axon Automotive says that the yet unnamed plug-in hybrid also sports "fashion house designed" seats that are made from recycled jeans and pinstriped suits while the door panels are made from recycled carbon fiber.
The British firm said that the first cars will be on sale in 2011 with full production to follow in 2012. The vehicle will be manufactured at small plants in the UK and in various factories in Europe including Spain, France, Ireland, Denmark, and Holland.
