Fuji Heavy to launch hybrid truck

Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. has announced plans to launch a hybrid version of one of its trucks by 2012, in partnership with Toyota Motor Corp. Fuji Heavy and Toyota will in vehicle development, production and product supply. However, the company declined to specify which model it will equip with a hybrid system. Fuji heavy also said it hopes to roll out more advanced diesel engines by 2010 and is focusing on improving fuel efficiency of its existing gasoline engines. “We first have to focus on improving fuel efficiency of our existing (gasoline engines), and at the same time, we’ll introduce hybrids, electric vehicles and (upgraded) diesel cars to cope with tougher emission regulations,” Ikuo Mori, president and chief executive at Fuji Heavy, said. (May 20, 2009)