A new initiative to get more hybrids and electric cars to the market has been announced.

The global initiative, involving four international agencies, including two transport bodies, was launched by the UN Environment Programme, the International Energy Agency, the International Transport Forum and the FIA Foundation.

The initiative will see these four bodies promoting the development of a global fleet that runs on 50% less fuel by 2050, stabilising greenhouse gas emissions.

It involves a detailed strategy - contained in a report - including intermediate goals in 2020 and 2030 which will involve the development of more hybrid and electric car models.

David Ward, FIA Foundation director general said the partners would push for tax incentives and conduct information campaigns to “help encourage consumer demand for more fuel efficient cars.”

An early step will be developing a fuel economy information database for fleets and private motorists.