Volkswagen has teamed up with self-service car providers Streetcar for the launch of the new Polo BlueMotion.

The BlueMotion is the company’s flagship green vehicle. With a 1.4-litre 80bhp diesel engine, it offers a claimed 74.3mpg on the combined cycle and emits 99g/km of CO2.

This month 20 of the cars will be added to Streetcar’s 550-strong London fleet.

Streetcar lets its members organise rental over the phone and then activate its vehicles using remote control smartcards.

The company, which started off with eight cars, now has more than 400 locations in London.

Andrew Valentine, Streetcar co-founder, said: “Along with rapid expansion comes the need for us to maximise the efficiency of our fleet.

“BlueMotion provides us with a great opportunity to offer a more efficient option.”

Vincent Kinner, head of Volkswagen Fleet Services, reiterated the manufacturer’s commitment to green technology. “Transport is changing and we recognise customers – particularly in cities – are seeking new mobility solutions,” he said.

Volkswagen plans to introduce BlueMotion across the Golf, Jetta, Touran and Passat range next year.