THE importance of ecologically sustainable power sources in transport technology was highlighted by Industry and Energy Minister John Battle at the British International Motor Show. He visited the Concept Cars of the 21st Century where he viewed prototypes and design concepts for future vehicles and the Foresight Vehicle stand to see examples of sustainable transport.

Battle said: 'This year's Motor Show underlines the importance of research and development in securing the future and I firmly believe it is those companies with the courage to innovate who will succeed. I was particularly impressed by the fuel economy of much of the technology on show today - in particular hydrogen-powered fuel cells and the range of lightweight vehicles. It is paramount that the transport systems of tomorrow are ecologically sustainable.'

Battle also touched on the increasing importance of telemetics.

'In-car navigation systems will save British industry millions of pounds in delays every year, while pioneering collision-avoidance technology will come as good news to every motorist.'