The next generation Chevrolet city car will be based on the popular Beat concept, after 1.9 million online voters elected it their favourite of a trio of minicar styling studies shown at the 2007 New York Auto Show.

Designed to appeal to urban customers, the three-door Beat will significantly inspire Chevrolet’s next generation city car, due to make its debut in 2010.

Speaking at the Los Angeles Auto Show, where the production announcement was made, Chevrolet General Manager, Ed Peper, said: “The people have spoken. The vote count tripled all previous GM online consumer surveys, telling us Beat resonated with customers all around the world. Chevrolet was overwhelmed by the positive reaction to each of the three Mini concept cars, but Beat was a sound winner.”

The production model will carry the spirit of the expressive Beat concept, offering compact, city-friendly dimensions and a small-displacement engine that delivers excellent fuel economy. It adds further depth and breadth to Chevrolet’s global lineup, which is sold in more than 120 countries, giving the brand a strong position in the city car segment – a sector that is growing across the globe, in numerous different markets.

The newcomer will maintain the Beat concepts core values – namely compact dimensions, modern, youth-oriented styling and great value for money, coupled to low fuel consumption and an environmental footprint befitting of a vehicle designed for urban use. The model will become one of the most significant additions to Chevrolet’s UK product range.