We present a novel approach for constructing hybrid functionals by using a local mix of regular density functional theory (DFT) exchange and exact Hartree-Fock (HF) exchange. This local hybrid approach is computationally feasible for a wide range of molecules. In this work, the local mix of HF and DFT exchange is driven by the ratio of tau(W) = \delrho\(2)/8rho, the Weizsacker kinetic energy density, with tau, the exact kinetic energy density. This particular choice of local mix yields 100% of exact exchange in one-electron regions. Dissociation energy curves, binding energies, and equilibrium geometries for two-center, three-electron symmetric radical cations can be modeled accurately using this scheme. We also report encouraging results for reaction energy barriers, and somewhat disappointing atomization energies for the small G2 set. (C) 2003 American Institute of Physics.