Unlike other auto makers, who reach out to tech and energy firms for assistance in developing hybrid vehicles, Nissan’s will be produced, researched and tested in-house.

The supercharged hybrid will consist of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (which, according to the company, will be as powerful as a 3.5-liter) attached to an electric motor and lithium-ion battery pack. No word on performance specifications as of yet.

This fuel-efficient powertrain is based on the one used in Infiniti’s M35h (Nissan’s luxury car brand).

Source: WCF

With a 158-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gas engine backed up by a 40-horsepower electric motor, this Altima brings the mid-sized hybrid sedan into a class fitting any Toyota and Honda hybrid on the market. How far are you getting with your Altima? Try 35 miles a gallon city and 33 highway. You can push it up to 40 depending on how hard you brake, accelerate, etc. – which is right up there with Camry’s 33/34 m.p.g. and surpasses The Chevy Malibu Hybrid at 24/32 m.p.g.

2007-2008 Altima Hybrid, availability limited

So why can’t you run out and pick up your Altima today? Well, you could, but only if you live in: California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island & Vermont. Environmental regulations in those green states has risen demand for eco-friendly cars, but you won’t see the Altima on dealer lots in the Midwest or southern states. However, if you don’t mind the $25,795 base price (again, competing well with Toyota, Honda, etc.) the sticker includes a delivery fee.

Altima’s Hybrid 158-horsepower 4-cylinder gas & 40-horsepower electric engine packs a sweet, though rough, power-boost

The jump from electric motor to gas engine and back can be a little harsh. Critics of the Altima Hybrid have complained about how much you can feel the switch, those for the Altima say the smooth transition of a Toyota is too smooth, almost putting you to sleep at the wheel. Regardless of how you feel, it can be said the switch from gas to electric (and vice-versa) is felt, but not so harsh that you’ll propel your vehicle off the road.

Nissan’s Altima test Vehicle circa 2005

Several taxi & limo commissions, along with car rental agencies, have embraced hybrid car technology. The most famous of all (at least most well known in pop culture) may be New York’s Taxi & Limousine Commission – which is implementing the Altima Hybrid as part of their yellow-cab fleet. As interest and the demand for eco-automobiles grows, Nissan lovers can rest assured they’ll spy future Altima Hybrids at dealers nationwide.

We Heart the NYC Taxi Commission and their embracing of the Altima Hybrid