Vauxhall Ampera

The hybrid Vauxhall Ampera looks radical, and it has some radical technology beneath the skin. It's described by Vauxhall as a "range extending electric vehicle". That means the wheels are turned by an electric motor, but a small 1.4-litre petrol generator supplies the motor with electricity when the battery runs flat. So unlike conventional electric cars, such as the Nissan Leaf, the Ampera doesn't have a limited range. In fact, the Ampera can also go a lot further than a conventional car between fuel stops. Inside, the cabin has a futuristic look similar to that of the Honda Insight and Toyota Prius thanks to its attractive wraparound dash and LCD centre console, but quality is a major step ahead.