THE biggest ever exhibition of environmental cars in Britain will be held this weekend, when European Union transport and environment ministers gather to discuss future environmental policy.

Ministers, in Chester to take part in three days of informal discussion will be able to see 18 vehicles - some running on alternative fuels, others boasting impressive fuel economy - highlighting the latest developments in cleaner vehicle technology.

The SMMT is putting together the display of vehicles, in addition to publishing a new green motoring guide, in order to spearhead the motor industry's fight-back against the anti-car lobby. An SMMT spokesman said: 'The SMMT has co-ordinated the largest ever dedicated exhibition of alternatively-powered and advanced environmental cars, with 18 vehicles on show. The cars represent the latest advances in technology from the motor industry.'