DaimlerChrysler and GM will team up on hybrids

In order to compete with Japanese rivals in the hybrid car movement, GM and Daimler Chrysler will jointly develop hybrid motors.

The plan calls for rear and front-wheel-drive versions for cars, trucks and sport utility vehicles. Each company; however, will integrate the new hybrids into its own models.

Nonetheless, both companies will be years behind in the hybrid race. Already, the Toyota Prius has created huge waiting lists, and there has been much favorable buzz regarding the Ford Escape hybrid, and the recently released Honda Accord hybrid.

For example, GM will put hybrids into its full-sized Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon SUVs in late 2007. Shortly after GM's SUVs hit the market, Daimler Chrysler will bring the Dodge Durango to market. Ultimately, Daimler will also bring Mercedes hybrids to market, but it will be as much as five years before that happens.