GOVERNMENT approval was given to the UK debut of Ford's hydrogen fuel cell Focus when it appeared at the London launch of the Carbon Trust. However, as Ford demonstrated its commitment to the development of environmentally advanced vehicle technologies, the manufacturer called for incentives and a European refuelling infrastructure to make the 'green' alternatives to traditional fuels commercially viable.

The fuel cell Focus, which made its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this month, was one of Ford's 'green fleet' of vehicles demonstrated at the launch event entitled 'Towards Sustainable Development'. In showing off the vehicles to deputy prime minister John Prescott, Dr Wolfgang Schneider, vice-president legal, governmental, legal and environmental affairs, Ford Europe, said: 'We need a reliable legal framework, including appropriate incentives and a progressive refuelling infrastructure in Europe.'

Business had a key role to play in tackling climate change, said Prescott, who added: 'Without business commitment to developing low carbon technologies, long-term reductions in greenhouse gas emissions will not be achieved. The Carbon Trust will help business play its part.' The Carbon Trust will make £200 million available over the next two years to help businesses invest in low carbon technologies.