THE Department for Work and Pensions has taken delivery of five Toyota Prius petrol-electric hybrid cars.

Over the next six months the cars will be evaluated for fuel economy, durability and comfort in London, Nottingham and Manchester.

Department Minister Baroness Hollis, who has responsibility for green issues, said: 'The Department for Work and Pensions is leading the way to make sure we have a greener environment. It was the first Government department to sign up to the Motorvate initiative, giving a commitment to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 12% over the next three years.

'Evaluating the Toyota Prius with its dual-fuel engine will also help the department meet its commitment to the sustainable development initiative, ensuring that 25% of the department's car fleet uses alternative-fuel power by April 2002.'