Ecofriendly vehicle launched

TOYOTA Motor Corporation has begun selling a new, environmentally friendly sport utility vehicle.

The vehicle emits 70 percent less of four greenhouse gases required by current standards.

The 3000cc Harrier model emits 70 percent less hydrocarbon, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and nitrogen dioxide gases than the limit set by current standards, ahead of new emissions rules which will be introduced by 2000.

Toyota claims that the engine features enhanced valve-timing controls and reduced friction loss, which thereby improves fuel efficiency and reduces the amount of carbon dioxide emissions.

The company said it used easily recyclable material for many of the molded parts, such as the front and rear bumpers and other areas.

It also eliminated lead, which is harmful to the environment, from the radiator and wire harnesses.

Toyota aims to sell the new vehicle at a monthly rate of 5,000 cars. It is priced about US$18,500 and available in Japan's major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka.

-- Kyodo News International