Electric Mazda2 subcompact and taxis that run on natural gas

(Mazda)

Mazda electric
Mazda will begin leasing its electric Mazda2 subcompact in Japan in spring 2012, its first foray into the burgeoning electric market. It will have a driving range of 120 miles on a single charge, but details on pricing and overseas sales plans were not revealed.

(Ford)

'Natural' cabs
A Chicago taxicab company will soon begin using a dozen Ford Transit Connect vans that run on natural gas instead of petroleum. They're due to be delivered in March. Natural gas gives off 30 percent to 40 percent less greenhouse gas emissions than gasoline, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Almost 90 percent of it is produced in the U.S.

-- The Associated Press