Toyota's Hybrid Car Cares

As people become more aware and conscious of environmental issues, Toyota, to put in its mite, has launched a model that takes extra care of the environment.

The Japanese company launched its new model Sai Hybrid Sedan this month.

The Sai, which was recently launched in Japan, will be introduced to the rest of the world after 2010. It is known to be one of the best hybrid cars of all times.

A redesign of Lexus HS250 hybrid, the Sai is based on a concept derived from the Japanese word sai, which means talent. The hybrid beauty has a simple interior and exterior with a 2.4-liter engine for fuel efficiency and an electric motor and reduction gear. It generates approximately 150 horsepower and up to 187 Nm of torque. An exhaust heat recovery system enhances efficiency and keeps the temperatures low.

The Sai has been also been launched in South Korea to cater to a growing market for environmentally-friendly cars.

“The introduction of the Toyota brand into South Korea is aimed to meet the diversifying needs of consumers in this growing market. We intend to make every effort to contribute to South Korean society and earn a loyal following,” said Toyota Executive Vice President Yukitoshi Funo.

The luxury car has been exclusively designed for the environment. Its Eco-Drive mode balances power and fuel and consumes less energy, resulting in almost zero emissions. It has an ESPO1 system, which encourages environment-safe driving.

The Sai is currently priced at 3.38 million yen ($40,250), and Toyota is mainly concentrating on its home market and Korea for now.

Toyota Motors, which was the worst-affected auto company amid the global financial crisis, has thus shown its competence and given the much-needed boost to the Japanese auto market with the launch of Sai.