Altima Hybrid to Sell in 8 States

More details are now available on Nissan's upcoming Altima Hybrid, the hydrid-electric version of the company's popular mid-size sedan. Based on the redesigned 2007 Nissan Altima - the non-hybrid version of that car is pictured here - the Nissan Altima Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and an electric motor generator. Nissan promises lower emissions and improved fuel economy.

When it goes on sale in early 2007, the Altima Hybrid will only be available in eight states: California, New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, Rhode Island, Maine, and New Jersey. These states have adopted California's vehicle emissions regulations and, according to Nissan, are among the strongest markets for hybrid vehicles. If the Nissan Altima Hybrid is a sales success - despite Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn's reservations about the appeal of a hybrid's added cost - expect the market to expand accordingly.