France Willing to Give Heuliez 10mn Euros in State Funds

France continues its plan to push domestic automakers towards green cars and, after approving a 3 billion euro funding package for local companies, it is now willing to direct an additional 10 million euros ($13.63 million) to Heuliez. Only that the niche carmaker has to present a realistic plan in return for the money, government spokesman Luc Chatel said today according to Autonews. In addition, Chatel explained that Heuliez was seeking a total of 45 million euros to get through the crisis but half of this sum has already been found, the source added.

Chatel said that shareholders should also inject more money into the company in order to survive the recession, but he didn't mention how much money the automaker would need from its owners.

Heuliez has a total workforce of 1,014 people, Autonews wrote, and even if it currently assembles the Opel Tigra, the company slowly migrates towards electric vehicles. For example, the Heuliez debuted at the 2008 Paris Auto Show its Friendly concept, a full-electric model that incorporates a nickel metal hydride battery and offers room for three occupants.

The so-called Friendly could reach a maximum speed of around 70 mph (112.6 km/h), with the aforementioned battery pack lasting for approximately 140 miles. More importantly, the car could be recharged using any standard wall outlet.

Although not confirmed, media reports claim the model is likely to enter mass production in Europe in 2010 but, taking into account the current market conditions, it may be delayed a bit more. Unless the government is indeed providing financial support...