The Japanese automobile multinational company, Nissan has confirmed its plans of launching a new battery-based car in South Africa by 2013. On 6th October, Managing Director, Nissan South Africa, Mike Whitfield officially announced that the company will be introducing its revolutionary electric car, Nissan Leaf, in the domestic market by 2013. Whitfield shared the news at the Johannesburg International Motor Show, held this year, which also witnessed the revelation of Leaf. “As soon as conditions allow”, Nissan Leaf will enter the South African automobile market, he said.
Nissan Leaf, as a concept, was introduced globally during 2010 and since it’s unveiling, a number of countries started making necessary amendments according to the government policy. The move led to modifications in their charging infrastructure and government incentives that would support the electric car concept. On the other hand, the South African government, too, buys time to implement inevitable changes so that the domestic market can use zero-emission electric vehicles.
Confirming the reports, Whitfield stated, “We intend to bring the Leaf to South Africa in 2013, subject to confirmation of government policy on charging infrastructure and customer incentives. There is more work to do before we can confirm its launch in South Africa but this underlines both Nissan's and this country's, commitment to deliver a more sustainable future for road transport.”
Nissan Motor Company has created a unique zero emission design which is supported by high-class technology. This electric car has been welcomed by American as well as European markets after necessary implementations were undertaken. Currently, the car is manufactured only in its Oppama plant in Japan. After a period of time, the car is expected to be assembled at Smyrna plant in Tennessee. Moreover from early 2013, the electric car will be manufactured at Sunderland plant in United Kingdom.
