The Electric Car should become an “extension of the home” according to ideas from energy company Centrica and carmaker Lotus as they plan a new ownership model that “fully integrates future mobility and energy”.

They say by making the car a home extension it’ll be capable of storing electricity, minimising emissions and generating new income by providing services to the energy market.

They say the partnership aims to “redefine the customer relationship with cars – one controlled by smart devices at home and on the move”.

They’re also working on a a sustainability programme using low carbon technologies to help mitigate the environmental impact of everything from manufacturing through to sales and the day-to-day activities of Lotus employees.