The Volvo YCC

Motor shows are crucial dates in the car industry's diary - it's where the companies get to show off their most ambitious designs.

Known as concept cars, they offer the public a glimpse of the future. Above all though, concept cars can generate a tidal wave of publicity.

Toyota's Alessandro Volta supercar understandably turned heads at the Geneva show in March 2004. Its 3.3l V6 engine is capable of incredible speeds but is restricted to 150mph. Why? To ensure a range of 400 miles out of a single tank of fuel. Averaging 38mpg, this high concept is the world's first economically conscious supercar.

Another car that’s been stealing the show is the Volvo YCC - a car designed entirely for and by women. The big idea is never having to look beneath the bonnet - in fact the bonnet has been done away with completely. The car simply figures out when something is wrong and contacts the nearest Volvo mechanic. The careful lady owner is then invited in for a check up.