Renault-Nissan Alliance, Wuhan Government Partner on Electric Vehicles Pilot Program

"Wuhan is working towards becoming an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly city. Introducing electric vehicles (EVs) in the city is an important part of the process to make this happen," said Ruan. "The agreement signed with Nissan is one significant step forward to realizing these goals."

"The Alliance believes that increased use of electric cars will significantly contribute to reducing CO2 emissions, air pollutants and use of petroleum fuel," said Saikawa. "Nissan is pleased to become the first international auto manufacturer to sign an agreement with a Chinese partner. We believe Nissan will have a positive impact in Wuhan with this winning partnership to introduce and promote Electric Vehicles here."

Both parties will, based on the agreement, start the market feasibility study of EVs in Wuhan beginning in 2011 with 25 Nissan electric vehicles. The Wuhan Government will build 250 EV chargers to support electric car operations in selected areas. Additionally, two quick chargers also will be installed in Wuhan. Further, Nissan and Wuhan Government will collaborate on education and awareness programs.

Wuhan is one of 13 pilot cities with alternative energy vehicle programs supported by the Chinese government. It is also the first city in China to enter into a partnership with the Alliance on the development of zero-emission mobility. The two parties signed the Memorandum of Understanding to promote the development of zero-emission mobility in China in April 2009.

NISSAN LEAF will be the first electric car to launch under this agreement. It is the world’s first affordable electric vehicle for the global mass market and will go on sale in Japan, the United States and Europe in late 2010. Designed specifically for a lithium-ion batteries powered chassis, the medium-size hatchback comfortably seats five adults and has a range of more than 160km (100 miles) to satisfy real-world consumer needs.

Founded in 1999, the Alliance sold more than 6 million vehicles in 2009 and has an objective of ranking among the world’s top three vehicle manufacturers in terms of quality, technology and profitability. The Alliance has formed partnerships with more than 50 governments, cities and other organizations to advance the deployment of Electric Vehicles worldwide.

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