Auto: Notable Seed stories from 2009

Yokohama – Many major car manufacturers struggled with dramatic industry shifts and producers reacted with pared-down, simplified autos and new electric and hybrid models, aided by generous government stimulus packages.

The Nissan Leaf signalled a major step for the industry with the first commercial hybrid vehicle, expected to be available in 2010 the US. Small, pared down box cars such as the Nissan Cube and Daihatsu’s Basket retro pick-up truck look set to become a popular option for cash-strapped city drivers. The solar powered Honda EV-N concept showed just how cute these smaller vehicles can be.