A FREE car hire scheme launched in Zurich by Avis and Swissair could be widened to the UK by the end of the year. The integrated transport initiative will mean that Swissair customers who fly first class, business class or use an 'electronic' standard ticket - which removes the need for a paper ticket to be posted to the customer - are eligible for 24 hours of free car hire.

The scheme is being extended to Geneva and Basle towards the end of the summer and then throughout Europe. Customers in Switzerland will use the Mercedes Smart car, a radical two-seater which has yet to be brought to the UK. Avis is considering replacements such as the Vauxhall Corsa if the tiny Mercedes does not come to the UK.

Air customers book the car through Swissair reservation offices and will be met by Avis staff on arrival and taken to their vehicle. Mark McCafferty, chief executive for Avis Europe, said: 'Our philosophy is that car rental should be an integral part of any transport system to make travel easier for our customers.'