Fuel-efficient engines star at Geneva motor show

Fuel efficiency through new technology and hybrid vehicles will be a top theme at this year’s Geneva Motor Show.

DaimlerChrysler will display a lower-emission diesel engine and Toyota will unveil its Hybrid X concept that marries an electric motor with a petrol engine.

The 77th edition of the show comes amid stronger concern about global warming and the environment, and a debate about vehicle emission limits in Europe.

One sharp focus is on making engines more fuel-efficient and more environmentally conscious – while helping to maintain a healthy bottom line.

DaimlerChrysler AG’s Mercedes brand will unveil its BlueTec emission-control technology in combination with a four-cylinder diesel engine that could lower emissions while increasing mpg.

“Our diesel strategy is an effective answer to the question of how to save fuel and, therefore, CO2, how to further reduce all exhaust emissions,” said Dieter Zetsche DaimlerChrysler’s chief executive officer.

Toyota is also due to have the next-step designs of its hybrid Prius models, which use electricity, batteries and petrol power.

Ford Motor Company, which is trying to stage a turnaround amid billions of dollars in losses in recent months, said it will roll out its plans to develop a subcompact car for American consumers but one based on the platform it has developed with Mazda.

Ford of Europe President Lewis Booth said the company had made plans to develop the car for its struggling North American unit, adding the European unit of Ford would also take the lead in developing a similar model for sale in Europe and Asia.

Organisers expect more than 700,000 visitors to the show, which is open to the public from March 8-18. Admission costs 14 Swiss francs.