Hybridization gathers momentum

Gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles continue to grow in popularity, with many incremental advances coming from Japanese OEMs and suppliers.

Hybridization endeavors by Toyota and Honda are well known, each now offering multiple vehicle types, and in Toyota's case multiple hybrid configurations. Suzuki has a micro two-seat car called Twin Hybrid in its catalog, equipped with a powertrain consisting of a 660-cm³ gasoline engine and single motor assist/regenerative system. The Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturers offer several hybrid trucks and buses.

Hybrid diversity continues to expand. Nissan is readying its Altima Hybrid for the North American market based on the Toyota system-a “Hybrid with an attitude” is the description from a Nissan engineer of its lively “kick-down-like” acceleration. Daihatsu has a hybrid light van for delivery duties. Mazda is said to be considering a hybrid Tribute (Escape twin, courtesy of Ford and Aisin). Toyota has let it be known that it will add THS-II (Toyota Hybrid System) versions to the Lexus GS and Toyota Camry, the latter to be produced in the U.S.