The newly opened Rafayel on the Left Bank, in Battersea styles itself as "one of the world’s first environmentally-conscious luxury hotels" and uses a number of cutting-edge green technologies that minimise its environmental impact without compromising quality. These include the latest advances in LED lighting, air conditioning and rainwater harvesting, through which the Rafayel promises to reduce the 70kg carbon footprint of the average London hotel guest by a 20%.

Now, the hotel is to use two new Leon E Ecomotive models as courtesy cars. The model features SEAT’s new Stop/Start and Brake Energy Recovery technologies to slash CO2 emissions to 99g/km (the same as the original Ibiza Ecomotive) and also offers a combined fuel economy figure of 74.3mpg.

Among the features key to the car’s improved economy and emissions performance are its use of a new 1.6-litre TDI engine with the latest common rail fuelling and DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter). A recommended gear indicator, low rolling resistance tyres and aerodynamic tweaks complete the E Ecomotive treatment.

Welcoming the courtesy car deal with Rafayel on the Left Bank, SEAT UK national fleet sales manager Sally Livingstone said: ‘The opportunity to put the Leon E Ecomotive in front of scores of green-minded hotel customers via this agreement with the Rafayel was very appealing.

‘I hope the hotel’s guests enjoy their journeys to and from the Rafayel as much as I’m sure they will enjoy their stay at this top-class London hotel.’

Hotel owner Iqbal Latif added: ‘The arrival of these new cars adds an important extra dimension to the eco credentials of our hotel.’