The City of Amsterdam, Netherlands, has signed a Definitive Agreement with the Renault-Nissan Alliance to encourage electric vehicles and promote zero-emission mobility.
Among the specific targets agreed by both parties today is a determination to register at least 1,000 EV sales by the end of 2011.
As a first step to reaching that target, Nissan will deliver 100 Nissan LEAFs to fleet customers starting in February 2011. In June 2011, deliveries of the 100% electric, compact family zero-emission car will begin to individual customers. Deliveries of the Fluence Z.E. and Kangoo Express Z.E. electric vehicles from Renault will start shortly thereafter.
Amsterdam has introduced several incentives in order to stimulate EV demand, including free electricity at public charging posts until March 2012, as well as free parking at such posts. Since March 2009, businesses are also eligible for a subsidy from the city when purchasing an EV. In addition, EV buyers benefit from national incentives, including zero registration tax and zero road tax. For businesses, that means Nissan LEAF is available for less than 30,000 euros, including the battery.
The City is already developing a comprehensive charging infrastructure to support EV customers. Almost 100 charging points have been installed in public areas since November 2009. Each point has at least one regular user. To meet growing demand for electric charging points, Amsterdam plans to install up to 2,000 additional charging points in the streets, car parks and Park and Ride sites. The extra charging points will be financed by the Air Quality Fund, with a substantial contribution from the government. Starting in 2011, Amsterdam will install a ‘Quick Charger’ in the city which is capable of up to 50kW and which can recharge a battery to 80 percent of its capacity in about 30 minutes. The City will also encourage the installation of private charging posts at companies.
As well as providing a supply of advanced EVs for purchase or lease and managing the Netherlands’ EV Pilot Programme, the Renault-Nissan Alliance will establish a sales and service network for the cars in the Amsterdam area.
The Alliance will also join forces with Amsterdam to run an Electric Mobility Education Programme designed to promote the positive benefits of zero-emission travel.
