Pictures have been released of a hybrid concept car said to be capable of 330mpg. The three-wheeled Aptera prototype, built by a New Mexico-based engineer in his garage, looks like a sci-fi alien spacecraft, though much of its powertrain technology is well-proven in concept vehicles.

It combines an ultra-clean 12bhp diesel engine - which conforms to the California Air Resources Board's strict emissions regulations - and a 25bhp electric motor with a regenerative braking system to capture energy, and CVT transmission. At 173 inches long, it weighs just 850lbs, which means that the small engine and motor don't have to work too hard: it's claimed to be capable of 0-60mph in 11 seconds and a top speed of 95mph, more than adequate for a two-seater which would mainly be used for city commuting.

The Aptera's creator, Steve Fambro, has teamed up with aircraft engineers in San Diego, California to form a company called Accelerated Composites, reflecting the car's construction materials and methods. Its body structure is said to be both strong and safe, thanks to the composite panels and modular architecture; it uses many features from aeroplane construction, including wheel-shrouds to reduce rolling resistance.

The Aptera - named from a Greek word meaning "flight without wings" - will be taking part in demo runs and eco-car rallies in the US this summer once a fully working prototype has been built. Fambro is hoping to raise at least $200,000 to do this, to demonstrate the car to further potential investors with a view to production. He hopes to bring the car to market with a price tag of less than $20,000. (Jalopnik.com/San Diego Tribune).

The Aptera - named from a Greek word meaning "flight without wings"