Nissan e-NV200 Electric Van Concept Set For Production

Nissan has announced that a production version of its e-NV200 electric van concept will be launched in 2013.

Unveiled in concept form at January’s Detroit Auto Show, news of the production e-NV200 follows Nissan’s extensive testing of the new car through 2011.

Nissan is yet to reveal detailed specifications, although it is known that the electric van’s drivetrain is derived from the smaller LEAF electric hatch.

Externally, the production EV will share much of its body construction with the NV200 light van, which is already sold in over 40 countries.

According to Nissan, the new model will suit both families and businesses, suggesting that both commercial and passenger versions will be produced.

"The new model will offer all the spaciousness, versatility and practicality of a traditionally powered compact van, but with zero CO2 emission at the point of use”, Nissan Executive VP Andy Palmer said.

The Japanese carmaker promises class-leading low-maintenance costs - although, as an electric van, the production e-NV200 will be in a very small class.

The model will be manufactured at Nissan’s Barcelona plant, following a €41 million investment by Nissan, which will also see 700 jobs created.

Australia

The regular petrol-powered NV200 is believed to be Australia-bound in the coming year, but a debut for the electric model will likely depend on the success of the upcoming Leaf hatch.