June 2003

- Trish Whelan

Toyota to double hybrid models

20 June 2003: Toyota intends to massively increase the the number of models it will power by hybrid technology by 2006, to six nameplates.

So far it has sold 146,000 units of its groundbreaking Prius car, which has just undergone a complete change (above) and upgrading of its petrol-electricity hybrid system.

In the autumn, the Lexus RX300 SUV will also be offered with a hybrid system.

Hybrids are reckoned to become increasingly available as an interim technology before fuel cells push the automotive power envelope out to a completely hydrogen-based level towards the end of the decade.

Honda also has two hybrid cars on public sale - the diminutive Insight sporty coupe and a version of its Civic saloon.

Other manufacturers, including GM and Ford, are also moving into the hybrid option.

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