Toyota rules out diesel hybrids

A number of Europe’s major carmakers used this week’s Geneva Motor Show to unveil new concepts combining the frugalness of a compact diesel engine with the fuel-saving capability of a hybrid electric drivetrain. Some of the concepts, such as Volkswagen’s new TDI Hybrid, return fuel-economy of close to 70mpg (3.35L/100km). Despite the staggering results, hybrid technology pioneer Toyota has no plans for the oil-burning hybrid.

Speaking to reports in Geneva, Toyota president Katsuaki Watanabe said there were no sell diesel hybrid cars. "Technologically, a passenger car with a diesel hybrid is feasible for us since we already have a truck in Japan with a diesel hybrid. But a diesel hybrid car would cost more than a gasoline hybrid. Today we have no plans to introduce a diesel hybrid," Watanabe said.

Toyota is instead focusing on battery technology and is reported by Automotive News to be looking past lithium-ion technology in an effort to boost electric-only driving distances. Officials have set a goal of 50mi (80km) using a battery that can be charged from a standard home electricity outlet. This same week, Toyota’s chief also confirmed the carmaker’s entire lineup will be available with a hybrid option by the end of the next decade.