Toyota started their CNG (compressed natural gas) program in the late 90’s. In 1999 Toyota sold a four-cylinder Camry running on CNG, to some costumers in California. But this in a statement, it noted that “costumers were not attracted to a vehicle that required special refueling technologies and a limited refueling infrastructure.” They program was stopped in the year 2000. But with these pump prices, Toyota senses that consumers may be more open to CNG-powered cars today, then they did before.
With the Camry concept they want to confirm their interest in building CNG-powered vehicles, like the Camry.
Toyota spokesman Irv Miller said:”Natural gas and an expanded retail-friendly CNG infrastructure could be seen as a model for future hydrogen infrastructure.”
Well, we are glad to see more and more car brands start building CNG-powered cars.
Source: Business week