California is suing six automobile makers, alleging their vehicles are harming the state´s environment and contributing to global warming.

State Attorney General Bill Lockyer said the lawsuit is the first of its kind and seeks damages from the companies, including Ford Motor Co., General Motors Corp. and Chrysler Motors Corp. Toyota Motor North America Inc., Honda North America and Nissan North America are also named in the complaint.

"Vehicle emissions are the single most rapidly growing source of the carbon dioxide emissions contributing to global warming, yet the federal government and automakers have refused to act," Lockyer said.

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