Ignition technology means that drivers no longer need their keys either to unlock their car or to start its engine.

The doors unlock automatically as the driver pulls a door handle and once inside, ignition is triggered at the press of the motorsport-inspired Ford Power button.

Ford has implemented the new technology for the convenience of its consumers.

If in a hurry or carrying a load, there is no need to stop and hunt in pockets or bags for the car key – especially helpful in bad weather. The only requirement is to carry the special transponder key in a pocket or bag.

The engine is fired up by touching the Ford Power button with the clutch pedal depressed and the button is the same as fitted in Ford World Rally Championship and Formula Ford race cars. The engine can be switched off by pressing the button.

Motorists will be able to lock the car by pressing a lock button on the driver's door handle or bootlid.

However, as emergency back-up a conventional key is contained within the electronic fob. Keyholes are in the driver's door for access and steering wheel mount for ignition.

Ford Power, as first demonstrated by James Bond in the new Ford Mondeo which the spy drove in the movie Casino Royale, operates via radio signals between the key fob and door handles, to enable entry, and between fob and interior antennae prior to Ford Power being activated.

PROTON ADDS NEW MODEL

A new model will be added to the Proton range, the GEN-2 Persona.

The latest addition to the GEN-2 line up is a four-door saloon version of Proton's popular five door hatchback.

Powered by a 1.6 litre Lotus engineered Campro engine, delivering 110bhp, with a top speed of 118mph, all of the manual transmission models have a five-speed gearbox.

A four-speed automatic option is also available while ride and handling qualities are courtesy of Proton's sister company Lotus.

The interior features flat-folding 60:40 rear seats and an ample boot space.

Climate control with pollen filter helps drivers to keep warm in the winter and cool in the summer and front and rear electric windows come as standard.

Entertainment is provided by an integrated Blaupunkt radio/CD player, with an MP3-capable CD player and four way speaker system.

Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake Distribution, driver and passenger airbags, side impact protection bars, power assisted steering and reverse distance sensors all come as standard safety kit.