An energy saving future similar to those seen in science fiction movies could soon be upon us.

Pike Research predicts that the uptake of energy saving electrically powered vehicles will reach a compound annual growth rate of 106 per cent in the coming five years.

By 2015, more than three million vehicles on the roads are expected to be powered either by batteries or by a hybrid fuel system which can be recharged in part from the mains.

China and the US are predicted to constitute the largest shares of this market, at 27 and 26 per cent of sales respectively.

Dave Hurst, senior analyst at Pike Research, says: "Electric vehicles will follow the lead of hybrids and will be launched in the small car segment for consumer markets initially."

Among the cited benefits of electric vehicles - aside from their environmental advantages - are quieter operation and improved fuel economy.

In connection with the growth of electric vehicles and other eco-friendly technologies, Pike Research also anticipates a strong pace of growth in demand for energy storage systems capable of holding power in one place for an extended length of time.