Lamborghini Gallardo LP 670 4SV

Visitors admire a Lamborghini Gallardo LP 670 4SV at the public opening of the Geneva Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland

Mercedes E-class cabrio automatic roof

A visitor tests the automatic roof of the world premiere Mercedes E-class cabrio at public opening of the Geneva Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva Motor Show in Geneva

Visitors enter the fair halls at the public opening of the Geneva Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland, Thursday, March 4, 2010. About 250 exhibitors from 30 countries, showing 100 car premieres at the Auto Show until March 14.

Citroen world premiere DS3 at Geneva Motor Show

A visitor inspects the Citroen world premiere DS3 at public opening of the Geneva Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland, Thursday, March 4, 2010. About 250 exhibitors from 30 countries, showing 100 car premieres at the Auto Show until March 14.

Proton Hybrid Concept at 2010 Geneva Auto Show

Malaysian automaker Proton will unveil a hybrid concept vehicle at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show that was created in cooperation with its British subsidiary, Lotus Engineering, and Italdesign Giugiaro. The car will be displayed on the Italdesign stand.

Lotus is providing the hybrid drivetrain technology, while Giugiaro handled the styling on the four-passenger five-door hatchback, which aims to create the interior space of a large family sedan with the exterior dimensions of a city car.

The Lotus series hybrid system is built around the company's 1.2-liter three-cylinder "range extender" engine that was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show last fall. The engine does not drive the wheels but is used exclusively to recharge the battery and provide power for the electric drive motors.

Italdesign said the aim of its vehicle design was to "optimize the available onboard space and ergonomics."

Chairman Giorgetto Giugiaro said, "You could say that it is a brand-new type of car, a new automotive concept where looks are as important as function, ergonomics and comfort, not to mention environmental impact."