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BenQ is getting ready to launch its new 11.6 inch laptop, the Joybook Lite 121 Eco, in China and Thailand soon. It’s not clear yet whether this model will be available in other parts of the world, but Netbook News got to spend some hands-on time with the notebook and they were pretty impressed.

As previously reported, the most intriguing features of this notebook are the fact that it will be available in some markets with a combination hard drive/solid state disk. A Linux version (running Linpus Linux Lite) will be available with up to 532GB of storage space, thanks to a 500GB HDD and a 32GB SSD. This model is said to run for up to 9.5 hours with a 6 cell battery, although you’ll probably get a little less battery life if you have a hard drive-only model.

The computer also earns its “Eco” name by using about 25% recycled materials. The packaging is also composed of partially recycled materials and soy-based inks.

The Joybook Lite 121 Eco has a matte finish on the lid, but a glossy display. The computer will ship with an integrated 3G modem in some markets. It has an Intel Atom Z520 CPU, Intel GMA 500 graphics, a 1366 x 768 pixel display. 802.11b/g/n WiFi, Bluetooth 2.1, a 1.3MP webcam, VGA output, and 3 USB ports. It has a starting price of around $525.

You can check out the hands-on video after the break.