By 2010 Ford could be producing a quarter of a million gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles a year.

The revelation came from Ford's chief executive, Bill Ford, who announced that the company would be stepping up its efforts to produce more environmentally-friendly models.

"We know that our customers are concerned about energy," Mr Ford said. "Our job is to alleviate some of their concerns with viable options in their choice of transportation."

For environmentally-aware customers, Ford aims to release the F-150 truck, and Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Car sedans in versions capable of running on ethanol. This will bring Ford's ethanol-capable vehicle production up to 280,000 in 2006.

Ford will also be starting a pilot programme in which it will donate money to projects that reduce carbon dioxide emissions in order to offset those gases emitted during production of its hybrid vehicles, reported Reuters.

Ford's drive to manufacture greener vehicles has recently been bolstered by the launch of its new 2006 Mercury Mariner SUV hybrid vehicle alongside an education programme highlighting driving techniques for hybrid vehicles.

The Mercury Mariner joins the company's Ford Escape Hybrid and Ford Focus Fuel Cell vehicles as another alternative fuel vehicle in the manufacturer's armoury which will reduce harmful emissions.


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