| WHO WILL CLEAN UP?
The smelly old combustion engine will dominate the motor transport industry for many years to come. Even with the introduction of demanding emission rules, manufacturers will find markets in the developing world. Much has happened over the last 25 years - here are some key benchmark dates.
1973. First real fuel crisis turns attention towards economy cars.
1975. Introduction of catalytic converters in USA.
1984. VW and Fiat launch special economy cars with stop-start fuel saving systems.
1992. Catalytic converters compulsary in EU.
1997. Toyota launches first hybrid Prius car in Japan.
1999. First petrol/electric hybrid launched by Honda. Ford launches first SUV ( Excursion ) with 5.4 - 7.3litre engines.
2000. Audi launches A2 lightweight hatchback ( taken off market after 5 years slow sales ).
2003 Honda delivers the one and only hydrogen fuel-cell car to a customer.
2005. Toyota releases successful second generation Prius.
2007. Millionth hybrid rolls off Toyota lines. GM announces 2012 Volt plug-in hybrid. Bluemotion diesel Polo released by VW ( less CO2 than Prius.
2008. London congestion charge becomes CO2 charge. Honda set to lease 100 hydrgen fuel-cell cars to customers.
"Being second is to be the first of the ones who lose." - AYRTON SENNA |
| |
