[IMAGE]KinkisharyoLFXExterior-2.jpg[/IMAGE] Kinkisharyo International LLC will unveil the prototype of its LFX-300, a 100 percent low-floor, dual-powered hybrid streetcar specifically designed for North America, in Charlotte, N.C., in January, 2011, following a series of tests.

The LFX-300 is a hybrid vehicle propelled by either overhead electric catenary or onboard 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. The LFX-300 is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Buy America and NFPA-130.

The LFX-300 will also debut in other U.S. cities in the coming months. Following Charlotte, the streetcar will be displayed in Dallas.

Kinkisharyo is presently in discussion with officials from other cities also interested in hosting the LFX for display or demonstration. The company welcomes inquiries from transit authorities across the country also interested in displaying the LFX-300 in their local markets.

Kinkisharyo has been delivering urban transit solutions in the U.S. for nearly three decades.

Kinkisharyo's parent company, The Kinki Sharyo Co. Ltd., and its affiliates, have been delivering rail solutions around the globe since 1920, including recently announced rail projects in Cairo, Egypt and in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.