MOTORISTS will soon have to decide what kind of propulsion system they want in their new car, claims General Motors. In addition to choosing body style, colour, features and options, buyers will also face the prospect of selecting from electric, hybrid electric or internal combustion for the vehicle's power source.

'The day is fast approaching when we'll have a stock of common vehicle parts and three propulsion units to draw from. The customer places an order that includes the choice of style, colour and propulsion system,' said GM's advanced technology vehicles director Robert Purcell. His comments came at the Tokyo Motor Show as GM chairman and chief executive officer John Smith unveiled the Chevrolet Triax, a unique concept that allows the driver to choose from electric, hybrid electric or internal combustion power with either two- or four-wheel drive.

According to Purcell, company engineers studied global environment regulations and decided that an assortment of options was required to meet various standards. Developed with Suzuki, the car features the Japanese company's latest small engine and transmission technology. Meanwhile, the Suzuki EV-sport, a two-seat minicar, uses the corporation's latest EV motor alongside a 400cc lean-burn engine. Back on its Chevrolet stand, GM showed YGM-1, the basis for a small, lifestyle car with four-wheel drive capability, and due to enter production in 2001.