24 July 2008

THE NETHERLANDS - Over the last six months, the number of hybrid cars sold in the Netherlands has quadrupled. Sales figures in the motor industry show the environmentally friendly vehicles now account for about 2 percent of the Dutch market.

The increase in popularity is being attributed to tax breaks which come with purchase of the cars. Since the start of 2008, people leasing hybrids only have to declare 14 percent of the catalogue price to the tax office, down from 25 percent.

Motor industry observers say this is why there are now so many leased hybrid cars. The high price of petrol is also seen as being an advantage for the vehicles.

[Radio Netherlands / Expatica]

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