Renault-Nissan to Explore EV Development in Oz

The Renault SA-Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. Alliance and Australia’s Victoria state government form a partnership to explore the development of a zero-emissions-vehicle program.

A memorandum of understanding will see a team of representatives identify potential areas of cooperation in promoting the use of electric vehicles in Victoria.

Nissan Motor Co. (Australia) Pty. Ltd. CEO Dan Thompson says technology for zero-emissions mobility is a reality, and the auto maker is prepared to explore ways to bring this technology to the market.

“Our company is leading the world in the design and production of a battery-powered family-sized car, and we aim to have this vehicle on sale in Australia by 2012,” he says in a statement.

“The signing of a strategic MOU with the government of Victoria brings that reality closer. The Nissan organization recognizes the importance of sustainability by limiting (carbon-dioxide) emissions, and we are ready and able to partner with governments in pursuing that role.”

Victoria Minister for Environment and Climate Change Gavin Jennings says his government is looking at the benefits of introducing and expanding EV technology.

The Renault-Nissan Alliance now has formed partnerships with nearly 30 governments, cities and other organizations around the world, including the U.S., Japan, Europe and Asia, to advance the deployment of EVs.

Nissan last week announced details of its pure electric vehicle, named the Leaf, which is due in the U.S. and Japan in 2010. Nissan says the small car, which also will be sold in Europe, achieves 367 mpg (0.6 L/100 km).