Ford Motor working with Asian governments on biofuel use - report

KUALA LUMPUR (AFX) - Ford Motor Co is working with several Asian governments, including Malaysia, on the use and development of biofuels, which are considered as alternative sources of fuel, the New Straits Times reported, quoting Ford Malaysia Sdn Bhd managing director Michael J. Pease.

Pease said the gas fuels being discussed include liquefied petroleum gas and compressed natural gas.

'The move in the Asian region to look at biofuels is a good first step although there is a need to find a balance between affordability of cars and fuel prices,' he added.

Pease said that although Ford is committed to helping its Malaysian customers in the face of rising fuel costs, its hybrid model may not be affordable in the local market.

'We are therefore intent on providing fuel-affordable vehicles to Malaysia,' he added.

The government had said that biodiesel is scheduled to be commercially available in the country by early 2007.