Toyota to release six new hybrids by 2012

Toyota has announced plans to launch six new hybrid vehicles by 2012, as the firm looks to keep a competitive edge in the burgeoning green car market.

By adding six more models to its range, Toyota will boast a total of 20 hybrid models and will be in a strong position to compete with rivals such as Nissan, who are also developing hybrid and all-electric vehicles.

The announcement came via Toyota's head of product development, Takeshi Uchiyamada, at a presentation in Detroit. The Wall Street Journal quoted him as saying that the four of the six new vehicles would be Toyota models, while the remaining two would be luxury Lexus models.

In addition to the hybrid models, which are driven by a combination of petrol and electricity, Toyota will also release an all-electric version of its RAV4 sports utility vehicle before the end of this year.

Toyota, currently the world's largest vehicle manufacturer, has had a difficult year following a series of safety recalls that affected around 10 million vehicles. However, the Japanese firm seems keen to bounce back and cement its place at the head of the highly competitive hybrid market.

Toyota did indicate, however, that it will continue to focus on developing hybrid vehicles for the time being, as the limits of current battery technology make an all-electric fleet an unrealistic option.

"As battery technology gets better, that transition will lead to more pure electric vehicles. Liquid fuels are still a superior fuel because of their energy density," The Wall Street Journal quoted Mr Uchiyamada as saying.

Motorists looking to sell a car for cash and upgrade to a more eco-friendly model are already spoilt for choice, but Toyota's expanded range is sure to provide even more food for thought.

 

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