Frankfurt, September 15, 2009 - Today, Renault and German electric utility RWE signed a cooperation agreement to create a large-scale zero-emissions individual transport and travel system in Germany. The objective is to establish electric cars as a viable and attractive transport solution for German consumers.
The partnership was officially launched today by Mr. Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO of Renault and Nissan, and Mr. Dr. Jürgen Grobmann, CEO of RWE.
The Renault Nissan Alliance aims to become the world's leading manufacturer of zero-emission vehicles. Germany will be one of the major markets for all-electric models.
RWE, is one of the leading european utility companies. RWE is currently setting up a powerful charging infrastructure for electric vehicles in major German cities and will subsequently roll-out this infrastructure across Germany.
Through the agreement announced today, the Renault Nissan Alliance and RWE aim to provide consumers with access to zero emission mobility. The partners want the joint market launch to start in June 2011. The Renault-Nissan Alliance and RWE intend to develop the market for EVs and create strong interest for e-mobility.
A joint pilot phase, starting second quarter 2009 and lasting until June 30, 2011, will first take place in Berlin, followed by other major German cities. Starting at the end of 2010, 100 electric Renault preserial vehicles will use the RWE charging infrastructure.
Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO of Renault and Nissan, said, "The signature of the cooperation agreement with RWE is a major step forward for Renault and the Alliance in Germany. The Renault-Nissan Alliance is committed to become the global leader in zero emission vehicles. Thanks to this partnership with RWE, we will be able to provide German customers with electric vehicles at an affordable price, with performance, roominess, comfort, quality and safety."
Dr. Jürgen Grobmann, CEO of RWE, said, "We are entering together into new territory with this innovative partnership. Together with Renault, we want to help electric cars make their breakthrough in Germany, with an attractive offering consisting of an electric car, eco-energy and fast charging stations.
The Renault-Nissan Alliance
The Renault Nissan Alliance, founded in 1999, sold 6,090,304 vehicles in 2008. The objective of the Alliance is to rank among the world's top three vehicle manufacturers in terms of quality, technology and profitability. Marking its tenth anniversary this year, the Renault-Nissan Alliance is leading a collaborative approach with both business and governments and has signed nearly 30 agreements worldwide with partners to launch its first electric vehicle starting in 2010 and to mass market a full range of electrical vehicles in 2012.
RWE
RWE is one of Europe's five leading electricity and gas companies. RWE is active in the generation, trading, transmission and supply of electricity and gas. Through RWE's fully consolidated investments, 66,000 employees supply over 14 million customers with electricity and 6 million customers with gas. In fiscal 2008, RWE recorded €49 billion in revenue.
Nissan Zero Emission Website
www.nissan-global.com/EN/ZEROEMISSION/
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