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Another car maker goes hybrid

02 December 2008

Hyundai has become the latest car maker to join the drive to produce and market more environmentally responsible vehicles.

The South Korean motor firm has announced that from next July it is to start selling hybrid vehicles.

Initially it will sell a battery power and liquid propane gas hybrid version of the Elantra compact in the Korean market before expanding a petrol-electric Sonta version in North America.

Hyundai will follow in the footsteps of Toyota, which has marketed its Prius extensively.

"Toyota has done a really good job prioritising the hybrid worldwide," Hyndai senior executive vice-president Yang Woong-Chul told the Financial Times. "It is about time for us to get on the boat, but it is not too late Our system is a lot simpler, with less components than Toyota."

Meanwhile, Porsche is expected to release a new four door sports car, which is also a petrol-electric hybrid.

The Panamera's engine will be located in the front of the car, under the bonnet, a design feature the car maker has not used since its 928 model.

Find out more about alternative car fuel here