CAR giant Ford is to announce a é1 billion investment in the UK to develop a range of new environmental technologies.

The company is to develop the "green" technologies across its full range of vehicles, including Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo.

The firm said there will be unprecedented levels of co-operation between its 9,500 engineers based at three sites in Dunton, Essex, Coventry and Gaydon in Warwickshire.

Under the plans a Ford Focus will be built capable of delivering 70 miles per gallon with hugely reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

The company said the announcement, to be formally unveiled later today, would confirm Ford's position as the leading research and development investor in the UK car industry.

Mainstream

Lewis Booth, Ford's executive vice president, said: "Environmental motoring has to go mainstream, it cannot just be a lifestyle choice of the concerned.

"Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo are working together more than ever to develop vehicle technologies to reduce CO2 emissions."

Transport Secretary Douglas Alexander said the announcement was "very welcome".

He added: "There is no bigger long-term challenge facing us than climate change.

"That is why it is very important for all of us - Government, business and individuals - to act.

"Today's announcement is good news for the environment, British jobs and the wider economy." Tweet