Turin, Italy  - Fiat is offering a bi-fuel version of the Qubo on the European market that can run on both petrol and natural gas (CNG), reducing carbon dioxide emissions to 119 g/km, according to the manufacturer.

The Qubo, priced at 16,400 euros (24,500 dollars), forms part of a "range of vehicles" including the Panda and Grande Punto offered by the car maker with a dual fuel option.

Natural gas (CNG) prices in Europe are at least 50 per cent lower than petrol or diesel prices. Fiat lists the petrol price of a 600 kilometre trip from Milan to Rome in a Fiat Qubo at 51 euros (1.4 8v, 73 bhp), 29 euros for a diesel version (1.3 Multijet 75 bhp ) and only 22 euros in the CNG mode.

In total the Fiat Qubo has a range of 940 kilometres - 300 km in the CNG mode. The gas cylinder is integrated into the floor so that the 250 litres of boot space can be exploited fully.

Standard equipment includes ABS and EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution), front and side airbags, rear doors and sliding electric front windows, manual air conditioning and fog lights. Options include a Blue & Sound Pack and 16-inch alloy wheels. (dpa)