VAUXHALL'S next-generation Ampera electric car is being taken on an international test drive to prove its credentials as everyday family transport.

Officials at Vauxhall aim to demonstrate the long distance capabilities of their radical new Ampera extended-range electric model by driving it non-stop from Russelsheim in Germany to the company's stand at the Geneva Motor Show.

The 370-mile trip is being staged to prove that the Ampera will be as practical to use as conventional rivals when it goes on sale in 2012.

Energy stored in the car's lithium-ion battery will be used for the first 40 miles of the trip and the car's on-board internal combustion engine will generate the electricity needed to complete the rest of the journey.

‘A battery electric vehicle would need to find a recharging station and stop for up to several hours to recharge its depleted battery before continuing the journey,' said electric vehicle implementation director Gherardo Corsini.

‘But the Ampera brings emission-free electric mobility without the limitations of conventional electric cars. It can drive on seamlessly and without interruption for more than 300 miles before plugging into a household socket or filling up with fuel.

‘I'm really looking forward to putting a lot of miles on our first prototype during this maiden test on public roads,' he added.

‘This run will demonstrate that the Ampera can be the primary vehicle in the household, ready to drive anywhere, any time.'