Japan's Big Auto Players Plan a Jolt of Electrics (And More Gasoline Models)

SEE ALSO: Getting the U.S. Off Gasoline; Are Electric Vehicles - A Solution or Diversion?

Washington DC September 26, 2010; The AIADA newsletter reported that Japan's three largest automakers are making a push to extend their alternative-fuel powertrain offerings in the next two years according to Automotive News.

Toyota Motor Corp. will bring two electric and six hybrid-electric models to market in the next 24 months, including a plug-in Toyota Prius. Lexus will move into entry-luxury with the CT 200h hybrid hatchback in 2011.

Nissan Motor Co. will launch the all-electric Nissan Leaf sedan in five markets in December. Infiniti will introduce the M35h hybrid next spring and an all-electric four-seater in late 2012 or early 2013.

Honda Motor Co. engineers are working on a hybrid platform for such large vehicles as the Honda Accord and Pilot and top Acura models.

Meanwhile, there's no letup in non-electric gasoline powered mainstream products from the Japanese carmakers. For example, Toyota will launch a redesigned Camry, RAV4 crossover and Tacoma pickup within the next 18 months. Honda will launch a redesigned Civic and CR-V crossover next year and the Accord in the summer of 2012. And Nissan is rolling out the Juke crossover this fall, a redesigned Quest minivan early next year, and major updates of the Altima and the Versa compact car for the 2013 model year.