TOKYO — Nissan continues to flesh out its electric-vehicle lineup, showing off a sketch on Thursday of its upcoming light commercial electric vehicle. The EV is based on the NV200, which debuted at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show.
"The low-cost multipurpose vehicle would allow ambulance drivers to drive directly into the hospital or van and taxi drivers to enter urban areas where CO2 emissions are restricted," said Nissan in a statement.
It confirmed that the electric LCV is "one of four electric vehicles Nissan has announced for the future."
Nissan said earlier that the NV200 is designed for commercial and people-carrier use. It will come in at least three versions: a cargo van, a Combi version that can carry goods and people and a seven-passenger van model.
The NV200 is slated for a gradual global rollout beginning this year. Nissan did not specify when the electric LCV will hit the market.
The electric Nissan Leaf will be launched in Japan and the U.S. in late 2010.
Inside Line says: Nissan seems determined to cover all the bases when it comes to EVs, right down to which ones will do duty as ambulances and taxis. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
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patrickw says:
12:46 AM, 11/07/2009
I'm glad Nissan is thinking specifically about ambulances - I just hope they will consult with experienced Paramedics, EMTs and drivers from many locations before finalizing the design. If they incorporate essential features (e.g., heavy-duty electrical system, hoseable rear compartment, etc.) from the get-go, then the conversion costs would be minimal and a lot more departments would be interested. My first ambulance was a 1966 Chevy hi-top station wagon with three in the tree (a 3-speed manual with the shift lever in the steering column). We've come a long way, baby.