Lightning sets pace for future green machines

But that is where the similarities end. While the Aston is powered by a fuel-hungry, six-litre V12 engine, the Lightning GT is all-clean, all-electric.

The car, launched this week at the British International Motor Show, is the brainchild of London businessman Iain Sanderson.

He began assembling a team of engineers and designers in 2006 and today unveiled the 130mph car that - thanks to four powerful electric motors hidden in its wheels - will scorch from 0-60mph in under four seconds, quicker than many big motorbikes.

The power comes from a bank of batteries that can be "quick-charged" in just 10 minutes for a range of between 180 and 200 miles. Like the DB9, which Mr Sanderson says is the car's closest rival, the Lightning GT will have a "fuel" gauge, giving drivers adequate warning before they need to head for the nearest electric socket.

"It is aimed at the motorist who wants to make a clear, environmental statement," says Mr Sanderson, 47, who divides his time between homes in Hammersmith and Suffolk. The underlying concept is that if you really want motorists to switch to green, electric motoring, you have to make it exciting."

His team seems to have delivered. The carbon-fibre and aluminium-bodied car caused a stir when the wraps came off at the ExCel centre, shortly after Gordon Brown toured the show to highlight the Government's commitment to green motoring.

The prototype was developed in Peterborough and Mr Sanderson is now seeking a partner to speed the car to full production next year. He says first deliveries will begin in early 2010.

Power from the electric motors, which also give the car four-wheel drive, is said to be ultra smooth and instantaneous, delivering the equivalent of about 700bhp. Other benefits include a zero rating for the congestion charge and vehicle excise duty, ultra-low fuel bills, free resident parking in some boroughs and free metered parking at some Central London locations.

Mr Sanderson, who has a background in marketing, said: "It is a car steeped in luxury and performance but it is one you can drive with a clear conscience, even in London."

But the team still faces one major hurdle: the Lightning is too quiet.

"We are going to have to design some noise in, so that people hear it coming," says Mr Sanderson. "We don't want them wandering out in front of it."