The Daily Star's FREE newsletter is spectacular! Sign up today for the best stories straight to your inbox Sign up today! Thank you for subscribing See our privacy notice Invalid Email

(Image: EPA/POLIZEI BERLIN/REUTERS)

The 43-year-old man killed in the blast was known to the police for drugs and violence offences, German newspaper BILD report

His car was registered to a woman in Berlin with a "Turkish-sounding" name, the paper added.

Police have ruled out terrorism and believe the "hit" is more likely linked to organised crime, it was claimed.

An area of Bismarck Street was completely locked down after the Volkswagen blew up on the German capital.

The car was driving towards the city centre when the explosion occurred and flipped over.

Cops have tonight stormed the victim's flat. He is thought to have run betting operations and counterfeit money gangs.

(Image: POLZEI BERLIN) (Image: EPA) (Image: REUTERS)

The driver of the Volkswagen Passat – a 43-year-old man – was killed in the blast.

Berlin Police say investigators believe the car blew up as a result of an explosive device but could not confirm if it was terror related.

Forensic investigators are at the scene.

Carsten Mueller told the Associated Press the explosion happened at around 7am.

He said investigators are working under the assumption an explosive device caused the blast.

(Image: DS) (Image: POLIZEI BERLIN) (Image: PERISCOPE)

Witnesses told Germany media how they heard a loud bang as far as a kilometre away.

The silver vehicle has been completely destroyed in the incident and debris is strewn across the road.

Police are trying to determine the driver's identity.

Cops have investigated the vehicle and told people in the area it is now safe to open their windows.