Of the nine models, eight are the aforementioned SUV, with the ninth being an MPV, also electric, which might become a future addition of the Green Automotive lineup in the US. The plan is to have the models tested by Roush to insure that they comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard, in light of the start of sales expected by the end of this year.
"The purchase of these additional vehicles," said Fred Luke, Green Automotive president, "is in keeping with our plans to perform full compliance testing here in the U.S., which will ensure that the Company brings to market a full electric vehicle that is also fully compliant with all U.S. safety standards."
The Zotye electric SUV is powered by a lithium-ion battery which sends the power to an electric motor. The model developed by the Chinese is capable of a top speed of up to 70 mph and can provide an electric range of up to 150 miles. The model will retail in the US for $35,995, starting the second quarter of the year.
As for the MPV, details are still scarce. The importer says the model to be tested along with the SUV will be offered beginning with 2012 both as an electric version and as a compressed natural gas (CNG) version.
For both models, Green Automotive plans to make full use of the incentives and tax breaks which are in place in several states to support the sales of green vehicles.
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