Leading automotive firms are eyeing up Japan as a potential new source of revenues for the diesel market, with many tipping the country to embrace clean diesel.

DaimlerChrysler Japan chief Hans Tempel is among those backing diesel to establish itself in the Far East, as he and other industry leaders explained to Reuters.

"We're optimistic about diesels' prospects here," he declared.

It is a feeling shared by VDA president Bernd Gottschalk, who represents the German automotive industry.

"Since diesels are on average 25 per cent more efficient than gasoline engines, Japan could save 26 billion litres of fuel per year if only diesel engines were used instead of gasoline engines," he commented.

VW Japan is another company looking at the potential in the market, with the emergence of new clean diesel technology expected to win over traditionally reticent Japanese consumers.

Earlier this month figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturing Traders (SMMT) indicated the UK is continuing to demand diesel cars, while the US has also begun warming to the hybrid alternative.

Diesels accounted for 38 per cent of UK sales in February, up half a per cent from a year ago.


Ÿ Adfero Ltd