Automaker Toyota has expressed plans to continue its successful hybrid production in the US ahead of any entry into the diesel market.

Masatami Takimoto, Executive Vice President in charge of Toyota's research and development operations, told Reuters that the tough emissions standards in the US in relation to diesel vehicles means the company currently believes it is more cost-effective to continue its hybrid lines in place of any diesel models.

Although he suggested that Toyota may deliver a diesel vehicle "some time in the future", he added: "Right now we think hybrids are much more cost competitive."

The US has some strict regulations in relation to clean air, particularly in states such as California, and Toyota currently sees hybrid technology as more practical in terms of low emissions than developing the technology needed for its diesel vehicles to comply with the rules.

Toyota is considered to be lagging behind its rivals in the diesel industry, partly because of its focus on hybrid technologies that have proved such a success for the manufacturer, with its Prius hybrid proving a huge hit in the US.

Ÿ Adfero Ltd