Sales of cars using alternative energy sources in Europe rose 39% in 2017
Frankfurt — European sales of cars powered by alternative energy sources rose 39% last year as Toyota Motor pushed hybrid models and Renault extended the driving range on the latest version of its all-electric Zoe. Customers bought 953,355 vehicles that run on systems that include batteries, electric-petrol or electric-diesel motors, fuel cells or natural gas in 2017, the Brussels-based European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), said in a statement on Thursday. Combined demand for full hybrid cars, which can operate on either conventional fuel or self-charged battery power, and so-called mild hybrids, which use an electric motor to help the combustion engine run more efficiently, surged 52%. Sales of all-electric models jumped 49%. The growth far outpaced the European car market’s 3.3% gain last year, suggesting consumers are warming to the models added by Toyota, Renault and competitors. Still, the alternative systems powered only 6.1% of the 15.6-million vehicles sold ...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.