DaimlerChrysler AG's U.S. arm is creating a new division to develop vehicles powered by a combination of gasoline and electricity, according to company officials.

Lawrence J. Oswald will lead the effort as vice president - hybrid electric vehicle entgineering platform, according to the DaimlerChrysler Corporation U.S. arm.

The automaker follows other manufacturers into the hybrid arena. Honda and Toyota already sell gasoline-electric hybrids in the U.S. -- the Insight and Prius, respectively. Ford has said it will start selling a hybrid version of its Escape small SUV in 2003. General Motors plans to start making gas-electric versions of its Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra full-size pickups by 2004.

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