Toyota is to launch its Avensis model equipped with the D-CAT (Diesel Clean Advanced Technology) emission control system in Europe next month.

The DPNR (Diesel, PM and NOx Reduction) system is included in the D-CAT system, providing the Avensis with a NOx absorber catalyst as well as a diesel particulate filter.

The launch of the new Avensis will represent the first commercial introduction of this kind of diesel emission control system, but it will at first be available only in Germany and the UK, where ultra low sulphur diesel fuel is available.

When equipped with the D-CAT, the Avensis will be the cleanest diesel car in the world in terms of both NOx and PM emissions.

Diesel-powered car sales have doubled in the past seven years, and are expected to account for half of all shipments by 2006.