More than 1.9 million people have voted – the new Chevrolet city car will be based on the popular Beat concept.

First previewed at the New York Auto Show earlier in the year, the three-door Beat will “significantly inspire” the next generation city car, with nearly 2 million online voters registering their interest in the baby Chevy.

Members of the public viewed a trio of minicar styling studies displayed in New York and opted for the Beat, set to make its debut in 2010.

“The people have spoken”, explains Ed Peper, Chevrolet General Manager. “The vote count tripled all previous GM online consumer surveys, telling us Beat resonated with customers all around the world.”

No concrete details have been released, but officials at Chevrolet said the production model will carry the ‘spirit’ of the Beat concept, including its compact dimensions and a small-displacement engine delivering “excellent” fuel economy.

The new Beat-based city car will enter into a competitive UK market, with the new Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion and Fiat 500 in popular demand.

“Chevrolet was overwhelmed by the positive reaction to each of the three mini concept cars”, Ed explained, “but Beat was a sound winner.”

And in a nod to the current crop of city cars with outstanding green credentials, Chevrolet said the new model will have an “environmental footprint befitting of a vehicle designed for urban use”, and will form a significant addition to Chevrolet’s UK range.