General Motors has unveiled the first car able to run with several different fuels. The Astra Multipower, which will enter production next month, can use alcohol, gasoline and natural gas.

The car was built and previewed in Brazil.

In an effort to encourage the use of alternative fuels, the Brazilian government is already considering reducing taxes on multi-fuel vehicles for the general public. The administration is also thought to be looking into how to export the technology abroad.

"Today is a remarkable day for the Brazilian auto industry – the only one in the world to have this unique and flexible technology – and for the first time provide this multiple fuel choice for local customers," says Jose Carlos Pinheiro Neto, vice-president of GM's Brazilian operations.

The Chevrolet Astra Multipower four-door saloon is equipped with a 2.0-litre, eight-valve engine and an engine control module (ECM) developed by Bosch do Brasil.