Mitsubishi and Nissan will begin marketing HEVs in North America over the next few years as well, while domestics General Motors, Ford, and DaimlerChrysler have invested
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| European automakers are taking a different approach to green cars, with their less expensive and nearly as clean advanced diesel engines. BMW, while also offering clean diesels, takes a different route with its liquid hydrogen powered IC 745h (shown). (Photo: BMW Canada) |
Meanwhile, the European automakers have generally touted advanced clean diesel engines as a less expensive solution that provides nearly the same benefits as hybrids, but without the higher price tag. BMW has focused much of its attention on the unique liquid hydrogen powered IC 745h concept, a technology that hasn't been forgotten by Ford as shown by last year's Model U concept.
Lexus Launches First Luxury Hybrid
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| The Lexus RX 400h will be the first hybrid luxury SUV on the road featuring a new version of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive. (Photo: Lexus) |
Yet, the Lexus RX 400h will be the first luxury SUV to go on the road and will have a new version of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive, said Denny Clements, Lexus group vice president and general manager. The sport-ute was first unveiled at the 2003 NAIAS as a concept vehicle.
The 400h will feature a new battery that will deliver twice the power of a Prius. And the SUV's all-new electric motor--actually, the 2x4 model will have two electric motors while the all-wheel drive version will have a third electric motor in the back--that can operate at 12,000 rpms, about twice the speed of the Prius' motor, delivering a peak output of about 270 hp.