Automakers bet on diesel vehicle comeback in Japan

A series of new diesel vehicles equipped with green technologies are slated to be released in Japan in 2010. Automakers plan to promote diesel vehicles that are 20-30% more fuel-efficient than gasoline models, hoping that they will vie with other eco-friendly automobiles such as gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles. Nissan Motor Co. plans to launch an automatic transmission model of its diesel-version X-Trail sport-utility vehicle in spring 2010. Mitsubishi Motors Corp. is set to release a remodeled version of its diesel-powered Pajero SUV in autumn. Diesel models are also set to be released by luxury foreign brands Mercedes-Benz and Audi in 2010. (December 31, 2009)