The British Government has announced it will ask car manufacturers to design and build a new affordable, low emission family car.

Alistair Darling, the Transport Secretary, said that because development of fuel cell cars is likely to take some time, an interim measure containing more urgent improvements is necessary.

To that end he has challenged the industry to develop proposals for a new car which is capable of travelling 1,000 miles before needing a refill, has tail pipe carbon dioxide emissions of less than 90 grammes per kilometre, and which is capable of being mass produced within four to eight years.

The Department for Transport has set aside £10 million for the scheme over the next three years as part of its 'New Vehicle Technology Fund'.

Alistair Darling explained: 'We must cut down on air pollution caused by cars. I want the industry to produce an affordable family car for the mass market, within four to eight years.'

'The challenge, which is an essential part of our transport strategy, shows how new car technology is good for the environment and good for the car buyer,' he added.