MOTORING NEWS Nissan to introduce first fuel cell car by march 2004 October 22, 2003 TOKYO — Japan's Nissan Motor Co. will launch its first fuel cell car by March 2004, President and Chief Executive Officer Carlos Ghosn said Wednesday. The vehicle will be based on the major Japanese automaker's X-Trail sport-utility vehicle and be equipped with a hybrid system combining fuel cells and an electric motor, Ghosn told reporters at the Makuhari Messe, the venue for the 37th Tokyo Motor Show. Gohn said that Nissan's first fuel cell car will be available for lease, due to its high sticker price. Japan's Toyota Motor Corp. and Honda Motor Co. introduced their fuel cell cars last December on a lease-base. A Toyota official explained that the expense of the fuel cell car, 1.2 million yen (11,000 dollars) a month, lends itself to leasing, mainly to government-related offices. The Tokyo Motor Show was opened to the press Wednesday. The exhibition, with more than 26 firms participating, including automakers, motorcycle makers and parts producers, continues until November 5. –Sapa-DPA Related stories Nissan Fairlady Z Roadster unveiled