Diesel and hybrid-electric engines are expected to gain in US market share over the coming years, according to a new report from the Freedonia Group.

The Ohio industrial research firm claims that the rise of fuel prices in 2005 saw many US consumers consider the potential of diesels and hybrids for the first time.

However, the company predicts that regular combustion engines will still be the most common light vehicle technology in 2014, although other engines will have closed the gap.

A number of manufacturers at this month's North American International Auto Show announced plans to produce low emission diesel models with Honda, BMW, Nissan and the Chrysler group all intending to release vehicles in the next four years.

New tough emissions standards in many US states are forcing many companies to provide far cleaner diesel vehicles than in the past.

The Freedonia Group states that the US should try to emulate the EU, where diesel technology has almost 50 per cent of the light vehicle market, with the introduction of low-sulphur fuels later this year set to keep growth on the rise.


Ÿ Adfero Ltd