Toyota to introduce 6 new hybrid models by 2012

Toyota Motor Corp will introduce six more hybrid models by 2012, visiting Executive Vice President Takeshi Uchiyamada has said, in an apparent bid to boost sales by expanding the line-up of eco-friendly cars.

Specific markets and other details are yet to be decided, company officials said on Monday, but Japan and the United States are expected to be among major markets for such vehicles.

The six planned gas-electric hybrids will include hybrid-only new models in addition to hybrid versions of the automaker's existing gasoline vehicles such as the luxury Lexus CT200h hybrid model to be launched next year, according to the officials.

The move is seen as a response to electric vehicles, which Nissan Motor Co and General Motors Co have taken the lead in developing.

Meanwhile, Toyota will take the wraps off its electric version of the RAV4 sport utility vehicle at a motor show to be held from mid-November in Los Angeles, the officials said.

The electric vehicle is now under development jointly with US venture Tesla Motors Inc.