Following in the footsteps of the Leaf electric car, Nissan is now launching the first all-electric mass produced van. It's called the e-NV200 and is the combination between the Leaf's battery and engine technology and the NV200 light commercial vehicle.
Production of this unique type of van has started earlier this week at Nissan's factory in Barcelona. The commemorative ceremony was attended by many high-rank officials, including the Spanish Ministry of Industry, the Mayor of Barcelona and the Japanese company's Chief Planning Officer, Andy Palmer.
"This is a great landmark day for Nissan, starting production of our second electric vehicle. This is at a time when EVs are now recognized as mainstream technology. Many competitors are only just starting to launch their first EV – where Nissan has clear first mover advantage. We're proud that the Nissan LEAF is the world's best-selling electric vehicle with more than 110,000 delighted customers enjoying the quiet and smooth ride of an EV," said Andy Palmer.
Following a €100 million investment at the production sight, Barcelona will serve as the hub for e-NV200 production. From there, many different versions, including taxi and passenger ones, will be exported worldwide. Initially, around 20 different markets will receive the second electric vehicle from Nissan, including Japan, Britain and Norway.
Last week, Britsh Gas announced it was going to be one of the first major buyers of the e-NV200. A batch of 50 has just been ordered, with another 50 to follow later this year.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News