Microcar importer Aixam wants to boost its dealer network in selected regions. It has sold 1,200 cars from 60 UK franchise points in a year.

Michael Kirk, business development manager, said at the Birmingham motor show, the Aixam 500 was appealing to city drivers and was sold largely through motorcycle outlets and ex-Reliant dealers.

Reliant has sold around 300 imported Ligier Ambra microcars in 12 months. It has 45 dealers and hopes to increase the network slowly.