Toyota has pledged to double its range of hybrid models after 2010 in order to demonstrate its commitment to reducing transport emissions and pollution.

The leading Japanese car manufacturer already dominates the hybrid vehicle market and intends to encourage hybrid use as the principle alternative to internal combustion-powered cars.

Hybrid cars employ both a standard engine and an electric motor, boasting zero CO2 emissions at low speeds and are capable of superior fuel efficiency.

Toyota already produces seven hybrid models, including the top-selling Prius, and plans to shift a million hybrids a year soon after 2010.

"We believe that hybrids will be the core technology in the 21st century," said executive vice president of technology development at Toyota, Masatami Takimoto at a recent press conference.

As part of an ongoing initiative to promote alternative fuels, the car maker is also investing in the development of more environmentally-friendly diesel and petrol engines as well as electric motors.

Ÿ Adfero Ltd