The world's first fuel cell motorbike designed by UK firm Intelligent Energy got its international premiere at the Pacific Design Centre in Los Angeles at the weekend.

The hydrogen-powered ENV is scheduled to hit the commercial market next year, according to United Press International.

In addition to being nearly noise-free, the ENV is entirely environmentally friendly, hence its name which stands for Emissions Neutral Vehicle.

Estimated to sell at around $6,000 (£3,288), the ENV has a running time of four hours before its hydrogen engine needs refuelling.

Fuel cells are expected to have a major impact on the automotive sector, offering a credible alternative to fossil fuels.

Projects in a number of major cities have already seen fuel cell powered buses deployed.