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Jordan, Nissan ink zero-emission mobility deal

Amman, September 1, 2010

Jordanian environment ministry has announced the signing of a MoU with Nissan Motor Company to promote zero-emission mobility in the Kingdom, heralding the first partnership of its kind in the Arab region.

The agreement was signed by Hazem Malhas, Minister of Environment, and Nissan’s corporate vice president Gilles Normand in the presence of Samir Rifai, the Prime Minister of Jordan, and several other cabinet ministers besides Tetsuo Shioguchi, the Ambassador of Japan to Jordan.

Under the MoU, Jordan and Nissan will undertake to promote electric vehicles as a sustainable mobility solution, which will help Jordan address the key issues of energy independence, CO2 emissions and environmental conservation.

Malhas said, 'I firmly believe we have an obligation to our future generations to take the necessary actions towards a greener and better world. The introduction of electric cars offers many advantages, not only for the environment, but also from an economic, social and national security perspective.'

'In taking this bold and visionary step, Jordan will position itself as a leader in zero emission mobility within the Arab region.'

'For a country that enjoys 330 days of sun per year, such technology will provide an excellent alternative to the conventional automobiles,' the minister added.

The MoU will focus on ensuring all the necessary conditions for electric vehicle mass market are in place, particularly government incentives, charging infrastructure and public education.

Jordan said it will also consider to purchase up to 300 units of Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, 100 electric, zero-emission vehicle, for its public sector.

The vehicle’s motor produces up to 80 kW of power and 280Nm of torque, enough for a maximum speed of  140 km/h.  The electric motor is powered by a laminated lithium-ion battery with a power output of more than 90 kW.

According to Malhas, the government is also working to finalize it electric vehicle standards.

On the deal, Normand said, 'Nissan applauds the Kingdom for its vision and strong commitment to sustainable mobility. We are pleased that Jordan and its people share in our vision to make zero emission mobility a reality.'

“With the Nissan LEAF, we have an electric car with the real technology to meet the needs and challenges of the 21st century mobility. It offers 160 km of driving autonomy and superb handling without having to sacrifice on comfort and convenience of modern lifestyles,” he added.

A global research indicates that the average daily mileage for 80 per cent of the world's population is under 100 km, it said.

A Working Group will commence to study the implementation of an Electric Vehicle Pilot Program, potentially within the Greater Amman Municipality and other stakeholders.

Taking a holistic approach to zero emission, the partners will also explore renewable energy for electric vehicle charging using solar energy, the use of second-life batteries, as well as other new mobility concepts such as car-sharing, Normand added.

The zero emission partnership marks another milestone in the long history of Japan and Jordan’s strong bi-lateral relations.-TradeArabia News Service




Tags: Jordan | nissan | deal | electric cars | Nissan LEAF | zero-emission |

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