Kinkisharyo International LLC said that technical innovation will drive its North American growth strategy, including the introduction of a 100 percent low-floor, dual-powered 'hybrid' streetcar that has been specifically designed for the U.S. The first LFX-300 will be unveiled in the U.S. in November.

"In this new economy, cities across North America have greater expectations of their urban transit solutions providers. Kinkisharyo understands that our customers expect more value today. Through technical innovation, we can deliver more in terms of economic performance, environmental responsibility and public safety," said vice President/GM Rainer Hombach.

The LFX-300 is a hybrid vehicle propelled by either overhead electric catenary or on-board battery power. In battery-powered mode, it uses electricity stored from regenerative braking and by charging the batteries while running on catenary, minimizing total power consumption. As an electric-hybrid vehicle, it does not emit fumes that contribute to smog and greenhouse gases. It has also been specifically designed for North America and is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Buy America and NFPA-130.

Kinkisharyo has been delivering urban transit solutions in the U.S. for nearly three decades, with its parent company, The Kinki Sharyo Co. Ltd., and its affiliates, delivering rail solutions around the globe since 1920.