In the last three years, the range has expanded to include six new models, with 200,000 units sold globally in 2011 – a 30% uplift compared to 2010. During the last three years, Honda said it had sold 500,000 hybrids in 50 markets worldwide, with its home market of Japan recording strong demand for the technology. Over 45% of all Hondas sold in Japan feature a hybrid drivetrain.

North America, which also favours hybrids over diesel models, is a large market too. As of December 2011, Honda said it had sold 338,872 hybrids in that market alone, representing 43% of the total sold globally.

In the next three years, the carmaker will extend its hybrid range further to include the Acura ILX saloon in North America and the forthcoming NSX supercar, with a petrol-electric four wheel drive hybrid system.