SOUTH Wales Police Force has taken delivery of a French-made Aixam 500 for its forensic evidence department. The vehicle has been donated for a 12-month evaluation period. According to the manufacturer, the diesel car is capable of more than 80 mpg, with the body made of 100 per cent recyclable plastic body panels.

Aixam is looking to expand its business through city-based service companies, such as couriers, pizza delivery firms, florists and public sector fleets.

Lawrence Holland, Aixam's general manager in the UK, said: 'The Aixam is a perfect vehicle for any public service which needs to navigate its way around Britain's busy streets without spending a fortune on fuel.'