About 61 automobile models from 13 car makers in China have got the green light for a national subsidy for their fuel efficiency, according to Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

It's the second batch of energy-saving vehicles to enjoy financial aid, as China gears up efforts to promote green cars and cut emission.

Vehicles, which have an engine capacity of 1.6 litres or less, will be entitled to a 3,000 Yuan (US$ 441) subsidy per car as they can save fuel consumption by 20 percent.

Among the 61 shortlisted models, 17 of them are manufactured by the country's major independent carmaker Chery Auto, leading the other 11 automakers. Cars including five models from Shanghai GM and the new Ford Fiesta are on the list, as are models from The other manufacturers include Beijing-Benz, Beijing Hyundai, Beiqi Foton, Changan-Ford-Mazda, Changan Auto, Dongfeng Motor, Jiangxin Changhe Suzuki, Chery Auto, Tianjin FAW, FAW-VW and FAW Haima are all among the approved models, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) said on its website.

The average fuel consumption of the approved models is about 20% below current standards.

Shanghai is also developing its own plans to promote green cars in the city in a bid to clear up the cities automotive smog, in the hope of putting the subsidies into action before the end of the year. It is reported that a Shanghai resident will be able to receive a subsidy of 20,000 Yuan if buying a plug-in hybrid car and of 40,000-50,000 Yuan for a pure electric car.