The Leumi Card corporation has replaced 22 executive cars with greener hybrid models. Specifically, it has leased Honda Civics, from Hertz Leasing. The company, a subsidiary of Bank Leumi, coordinated the move with its workers, and the parties will be sharing the cost.

Leumi Card thus becomes the first company in Israel to initiate a large-scale coordinated shift to hybrids. Company CEO Arie Heilweil says the move is part of a broader policy to go green, for the sake of the environment.

"In the long run, we get back the extra cost of leasing hybrid cars through lower fuel outlays and the reduction in emissions, which we view as a contribution to society," Heilweil says.