A HYDROGEN car set for a “first-of-its-kind” trial in Monmouthshire has exceeded its crowdfunding target of more than £1.1 million.

The fundraising campaign of Powys-based Riversimple, the world's only independent hydrogen carmaker, ended on Sunday.

Riversimple founder, Hugo Spowers, said that the news was down to a growing demand for low emission personal transport.

He said: “This very definite endorsement demonstrates people’s growing desire to be able to travel in a sustainable way and to start to address the catastrophic effects of pollution and global warming, while losing none of the joy of driving a responsive, beautifully-crafted car.

The firm is set to hand-build 20 hydrogen fuel cell cars, called 'Rasa', which will be test-driven by chosen residents in Monmouthshire.

This follows a £2million grant awarded by the Welsh Government awarded in 2015.

Speaking about the upcoming test, Mr Spowers said: "Wales has been a very receptive location to develop our vehicle and is the only country to have sustainability written into its statute.

"The reaction from both organisations and individuals here has been overwhelmingly supportive and we have found it a great base for our disruptive technology business, which has attracted global recognition."

The ‘Rasa’, a product of 15 years of research, will emit only water while its used on the road and has a range of 300 miles.

It also refills in a few minutes and has “no cost premium” compared with a conventional car.

To facilitate the scheme, a self-service mobile refuelling point will be installed in one of the Monmouthshire County Council car parks at Abergavenny or Monmouth.

The council are also recommended to provide secure parking for up to 20 vehicles at Raglan depot.