Hyundai Motor has launched its first hybrid car in South Korea using LPG and lithium ion polymer batteries for the Elantra LPI.

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“The LPI will show Hyundai has hybrid technology and help improve its image,” Kang Sang-min, an auto analyst at Tong Yang Securities, told Reuters.


There have been concerns Hyundai could lose out if hybrids gained in popularity in the United States, led by Toyota’s Prius and Honda’s Insight.


Hyundai’s first petrol-electric hybrid, a Sonata variant, is due out in the second half of 2010.


The new LPG Elantra hybrid emits 99g of CO2/km, meeting California’s super ultra low emission vehicle standard, Hyundai said.


It aims to sell 7,500 units this year in South Korea and double that in 2010 but had no export plans.

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