Automaker is generally tightlipped about specific product plans, but Nissan already has shown prototypes of their hybrid models.

Nissan has fallen behind Japanese rivals Toyota and Honda in developing its own hybrids but has made no secret of its ambitions to play aggressive catchup.

Nissan is developing a different kind of battery for hybrids from those used by Toyota and Honda. Nissan officials say their battery is better at providing quicker and more power.

Nissan officials have said the nation’s third-biggest automaker is working on a bigger hybrid system than Toyota’s popular Prius, the global top-seller among hybrids, and will make hybrid sports cars and luxury models.

Among luxury cars, Toyota already offers various Lexus hybrids, while German automakers Daimler AG and BMW AG are planning hybrids.

Hybrids deliver better mileage and reduce global warming gas emissions, compared with ordinary cars, because hybrids switch between a gasoline engine and an electric motor to deliver gas-sipping efficiency.