French automaker Peugeot Citroen is to unveil two demonstrator models for diesel-based hybrid cars which are expected to be on the market by 2010.
The Peugeot 307 and Citroen C4 demonstration cars are fitted with a hybrid diesel system which helps to cut emissions and reduce fuel consumption. Hybrids burn less fuel by adding one or more electric motors to a standard petrol or diesel engine. The batteries help power the vehicle and recharge by capturing energy during braking.
The French President Jacques Chirac recently called for the development of diesel-based hybrids within 10 years. However, while most hybrids are currently based on petrol, most cars in France use diesel.
The new models would be a way for the country to cut its dependence on hydrocarbons in a time of rising oil prices, and to move toward its goals to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases.