Marking a distinct reversal of
stance from chief executive Carlos Ghosn, Nissan has announced plans to
develop and release its own hybrid car by 2010.
The company is already set to launch a hybrid model in 2007, but
this will comprise existing parts and technologies from other carmakers,
while the 2010 vehicle will be Nissan’s own.
Other commitments from Nissan include the development of a car with fuel
economy of 3l/100 km, the launch of an electric vehicle in the next decade
and for creation of a subsidiary to make lithium-ion batteries for electric
vehicles.
| The Toyota Prius has set the standard for hybrids. Now Nissan wants one of its own |
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The moves are part of a general trend for carmakers increasingly wanting
to be seen as more environmentally aware, and also due to looming regulations
that will demand improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions in the
next 10-15 years.
European carmakers have voluntary emission targets to meet by 2009, although
recent figures show that only 25 per cent of the top 20 are on track.
Elsewhere in the world measures are more stringent, as Japan will require
carmakers to slash fuel consumption figures by 20 per cent from 2005 levels
by 2016, while California will demand a 25 per cent reduction in emissions
by 2020.
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