Most growth in the global vehicle fleet would come from the rapid rise in living standards in Third World countries, he said.
THE trebling of the world’s vehicle fleet by 2050 will cause transport-related greenhouse gas emissions to more than double and hasten climate change unless urgent measures are taken.
Hybrid cars, such as the new Lexus RX400h and the Toyota Prius, reduce carbon emissions by more than a half.
“Hydrogen fuel cell technology can reduce it even further – as long as the hydrogen was produced from a low or no-carbon source of electricity.
“Toyota’s view is that hybrid technology is an essential gateway that everyone will pass to reach the carbon-free solution,” he said.
The ultimate eco-friendly vehicle would be powered by hydrogen, however Field said that it was sad but true that hydrogen-powered vehicles were at least 10 or 20 years away from being an affordable option for the average motorist.
“In the meantime, we cannot afford to postpone taking decisive action to mitigate the impact of fossil fuel emissions, and this includes an accelerated take-up of petrol/electric hybrid vehicles like the RX400h.”
Powered by a 3.3-litre quad-cam V6 petrol engine and two electric motors, RX400h delivers lively performance and excellent overtaking, while having the fuel-efficiency of a much smaller vehicle.
It can accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in 7.9 seconds, yet has fuel economy of 8.1 litres per 100 kms and low emissions.
The Lexus Hybrid Drive system allows RX400h to operate in electric-only, or petrol-engine-only modes or combine the power of the petrol and electric motors. The hybrid battery never needs recharging from an external source.
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