Hybrid train in Japan does its tiny part to fight global warming

Associated Press - July 29, 2007 2:24 PM ET

SAKU, Japan (AP) - Compared to cars, trains are a relatively small contributor to global warming.

But the popularity of hybrid cars -- such as Toyota's best-selling Prius -- is helping to boost interest in hybrid trains.

A two-car train in rural northern Japan is the latest entrant in the battle against global warming. Following its runaway success with hybrid cars, Japan is bringing the world hybrid trains.

Regular passenger runs are set to begin Tuesday on a short mountain route -- the first time a diesel-electric hybrid train will be put into commercial service.