Toyota will make hybrid versions available for its large SUVs from 2016 according to the Nikkei business newspaper.

The carmaker intends to develop hybrid systems capable of powering such big vehicles starting with the Land Cruiser. Hybrid versions of the IMV (Innovative International Multipurpose Vehicle) are also planned along with strategic models specifically for emerging markets.

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Following its first mass-produced hybrid car, the Prius, in 1997, Toyota now offers about 20 hybrid models, mostly passenger cars, with their cumulative worldwide sales exceeding 5m. Hybrid versions of the flagship Crown have allowed Toyota to improve fuel efficiency by 20-30%.

Improving the economy of large models has become a key issue for carmakers as the US and other countries move to implement tougher rules while there is a growing demand globally for fuel efficient vehicles.

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