Hybrids increase fuel efficiency by capturing energy normally lost to friction braking and storing it in a battery for later use when driving power is again required. Unlike internal combustion engine hybrids, Volkswagen's hydrogen fuel cell hybrid emits only water.

The VW Touran Hymotion has high-torque electric motor that draws its power from a fuel cell and is absolutely emission free. The standard version, driven by petrol and diesel engines, which are as agile as they are economical, is by far most successful van available in Germany. In Touran HyMotion, an 80 kW electric motor provides vehement propulsion.

"The greatest appeal of Mercury Mariner Hybrid is that it satisfies both your environmental conscience and sense of style. Mariner Hybrid retains clean, tailored appearance of conventional Mariner," said Peter Horbury, Executive Director, North American Design.

Being a full hybrid, Mercury Mariner employs both series- and parallel-hybrid characteristics. The gasoline engine shuts down to conserve fuel during coasting, at stoplights, and at low speeds. The electric motor, drawing electricity from battery, is able to drive vehicle without assistance up to 25 mph.

It has 2.3-liter DOHC Duratec four-cylinder engine with 2 ac electric motors with 250 D-size nickel-metal hydride batteries in a compact, rear-mounted, sealed package. The vehicle could go up to 25 mph with only electric power. The gas engine automatically shuts down at stoplights, during coasting or while vehicle is crawling at low speeds. 2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid has a greater fuel economy in city driving where electric motor runs vehicle up to as much as 25 mph.