Data compiled by motor insurance company More Than has shown a dramatic increase in the popularity of eco-friendly vehicles.

The research found that registrations of hybrid vehicles in 2005 were up by 74 per cent from 2004 levels.

Other findings suggest that one-in-six motorists in the UK would consider trading in their car for an electric or hybrid model if fuel prices continue to increase and that a billion hybrid vehicles would be running within 15 years.

More Than's heads of motor insurance, David Pitt, welcomed the increasing popularity of 'green' cars.

"Given the growing concern about global warming it's encouraging that so many motorists are considering changing their driving habits," he said.

"As awareness increases, I am sure we will see more innovation from the motoring industry, as well as incentives from the government to encourage motorists to become more eco-friendly."

More Than's research reflects the increasing visibility of environmentally friendly vehicles at expositions such as the Geneva Motor Show.

Toyota will use the show, which runs from February 28th, to debut its updated Prius hybrid, while Citroen will be in Geneva to show off its C4 Hybride HDi.

Hybrid cars are partly powered by electric motors that recycle kinetic energy, leading to lower fuel consumption and reduced CO2 emissions.


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