Although you can't buy them today, these cars set a precedent for the future.
Mitsubishi Global Small
What is it: Mitsubishi is previewing the basic shape of next year's Ecocar in the guise of a five-door hatchback. Confirmed details are 1.2-litre engine, CVT gearbox and automatic stop/start system to help reduce fuel consumption.
Will it be made: Certainly, to rival the Honda Brio and Nissan March.
Kia Optima Hybrid
What is it: This is Korea's answer to the Toyota Camry Hybrid. Developed together with the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, the petrol/electric Optima uses a 2.4-litre engine as the basic power and six-speed automatic transmission.
Will it be made: Yes, but it's not coming to Thailand for the moment.
Toyota FT86
What is it: This is the first iteration of Toyota's concept car pointing to a new affordable sports car embodying a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre flat-four engine, rear-wheel drive and six-speed manual transmission.
Will it be made: Toyota has confirmed early next year but with slightly different looks.
Suzuki Swift Plug-in Hybrid
What is it: This electrified Swift is designed to drive around town for some 20 kilometres on pure electricity power. The lithium-ion batteries can be recharged by a generator that's backed up by a 660cc petrol motor.
Will it be made: Most likely, but only after an introduction of a regular petrol/electric hybrid.
Proton Lekir
What is it: Malaysia's leading national car brand is displaying a sporty concept based on the Europa from Lotus, a British sports car specialist owned by Proton. The Lekir utilises a 1.6-litre petrol-turbo motor.
Will it be made: The Europa hasn't been selling well for Lotus, so Proton could help maximise the business case _ if it really wants to.
Nissan Leaf
What is it: The Leaf is Nissan's first mass-produced car powered by fully electric propulsion backed by lithium-ion batteries. On a single charge, the Japanese say the five-door EV can travel up to 200 kilometres.
Will it be made: It has already gone in production, but only for selected markets abroad.
Toyota FT EV II
What is it: This is the all-electric version of Toyota's trendy iQ city car. The FT EV II has a flat lithium-ion battery pack that's neatly installed beneath the vehicle floor to uncompromised cabin functionality. It has range of 100 kilometres.
Will it be made: Early next year to rival the electric Smart, starting in the US.
Credit: Bangkok Post (www.bangkokpost.com)
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