The diesel market is continuing to eclipse the hybrid sector in Europe, according to leading industry figures.

Experts at the Genera car show told Reuters that the feeling among some industry insiders is that rising energy costs at the petrol pump and an increasing green awareness among consumers have failed to make a genuine impact in showrooms.

With sales of fuel intensive and pollution heavy 4x4 vehicles showing no sign of abating and hybrid sales still in their infancy, many are tipping diesel to remain the key sector in the short to medium-term.

Nissan Europe's Paul Wilcox explained: "There is no sign at the moment that we are seeing any contraction in 4x4s."

"I can't see a big backlash from consumers," he added.

Comments from Renault commercial director Patrick Blain echoed the sentiments, noting that the hybrid remained "very small" in Europe.

"It will grow but it won't grow in the same proportion as it has in the United States because in Europe there is diesel," he said.

Diesel sales have remained consistently strong in Europe, with clean diesel engines accounting for around 50 per cent of new cars.

New models from Honda, Daimler Chrysler and Nissan are expected to add to future sales, with many manufacturers unveiling plans for both standard diesel vehicles and diesel hybrids.


Ÿ Adfero Ltd