Japanese automotive company Nissan Motor plans to debut its Nissan LEAF electric vehicle (EV) in South Africa at the Johannesburg International Motor Show in October 2013.
The company is currently making trials of the vehicle in the country through pilot programs in collaboration with Eskom, South African electricity supplier, the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) and the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA).
Features of the new electric car include zero emissions, silent and smooth operation, home-charging convenience and combustion engines.
Nissan South Africa managing director Mike Whitfield said that Nissan is the first brand to explore EV retail in South Africa and they are extremely proud to be able to say 'we were first'.
"After initially announcing that the Nissan LEAF would grace South African roads at the 2011 Johannesburg International Motor Show, we are now even more excited to be able to bring full EV mobility to the South African public with a holistic approach," Whitfield added.
"This award-winning car will set a new tone for personal mobility in the country and we are honoured that Nissan is the first name on the list of EV manufacturers in South Africa."