This paper presents the results of a study on a multi-stage hybrid biomass-charcoal gasification to produce low tar content gas for engine application using coconut shell as a fuel. The performance of a gasifier-engine system consisting of the hybrid biomass-charcoal gasifier, a gas cleaning/cooling system and a diesel engine is also discussed. The lowest tar content found in hybrid coconut shell-charcoal gasification was 28 mg N m(-3). Using a spray tower, producer gas could be cooled down to 40 degreesC; almost tar-free gas was obtained after cooling the producer gas from the hybrid gasifier system. A three-cylinder Perkins diesel engine was tested at a constant speed of 1500 rpm on diesel alone and dual fuel modes of operation. A maximum of 81% of the total heat energy input was replaced by the producer gas at an electricity generation of 11.44kWe.