The government has set aside £250m for low-carbon transport, a large chunk of which will go towards schemes to promote electric cars—vehicles that business secretary Lord Mandelson claims the public will "fall in love with" when they see their "speed and lack of noise". It's a view that's widely held in the motor industry as the world's carmakers develop electric models. Here, we look at five of the most interesting

Chevrolet Volt     
Available: 2011

Unveiled with a flourish last month, the Chevy Volt is GM's attempt to stake a claim as a leader in green vehicles. Its big advantage is that, when it hits the streets in 2011, the Volt will achieve 230mpg in an urban setting, which looks impressive. With a range of 80 to 100 miles, the downside of the big battery will be a predicted price of more than £30,000—out of the reach of many families.

Plug-in Prius     
Available: 2010

Already the market-leading hybrid, Toyota's Prius is due to get a new lithium-ion battery next year, which will allow it to be used as a proper plug-in electric car. This means it will qualify under the government's scheme. Early predictions for the range and price of the new Prius-always two of the biggest variables-are 20 to 30 miles and less than £30,000.

Nissan Leaf     
Available: 2010

Another vehicle powered by lithium-ion battery, the Leaf offers what Nissan says is "the most exciting, practical and stylish way" to own an electric car. This model has a range of 100 miles, and is claimed to have comparable performance to a 1.6-litre petrol engine. Charging takes 25 minutes (80 per cent charged) and there is a clever touch in the ability to control charging functions from your mobile phone.

Tesla Model S     
Available: 2011

Sneaking up on the big manufacturers is specialist electric car firm Tesla. While its current vehicle is a Lotus-based, two-seater sports car, the manufacturer has plans for a five-seater saloon. The Model S will have an impressive range of up to 300 miles and a 45-minute Quick Charge. Able to carry five adults and two children, the model boasts gorgeous looks, sports car performance (0-60mph in 5.6 seconds) and practicality. It may just be worth an estimated £40,000 price tag.

Mini E    
Available: 2009

About to be tested in field trials (or more accurately street trials) across the UK as part of a government-funded research project into all-electric vehicles, the Mini E has all the hallmarks of its conventionally powered stable mates, although the space demands of lithium-ion batteries mean it will seat only two. An estimated range of up to 150 miles (although 100 is more achievable), it has enough zip to do 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds and will start to appear on streets later this year.