The US Department of Energy is providing more than $55 million (£33m) to boost research and development of technologies that improve fuel efficiency and cut costs.

The 31 chosen projects are aimed at meeting the goals of President Barack Obama’s EV Everywhere Grand Challenge and improve other vehicle technologies such as fuel, tires and powertrains.

The programme aims to make the US automotive industry the first to produce plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) that are as affordable and convenient as gas-powered cars by 2022.

US Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz said: “Investments in the next generation of vehicle technologies will both strengthen our economy and lead to a more fuel efficient, clean energy future.”