THIS could be a future contender for the title of the world's best loved roadster - if Honda ever puts it on the road.

Similar in size to the big-selling Mazda MX-5, the two-seater, lightweight low-emission sportscar study model combines stylish design features with environmental responsibility.

Named the OSM (for Open Study Model), the open-top joins the confirmed-for-production CR-Z sports hybrid (due in 2010 priced around £18,000) with which it shares a lot of design similarities.

"We're trying to show that low-emission cars can be attractive," says Andreas Sittel, project leader for OSM.

"There is no reason why a car that's more environmentally friendly can't look great too - and be sporty and fun to drive."

A likely power source is an updated version of Honda's current hybrid drivetrain with a 1.3 litre petrol engine linked to an electric motor.

Although officially there are no plans to put the OSM production, inside sources have hinted it could be made.