Changan launches first self-developed EV

Chongqing Changan Automobile has launched its first indigenously developed pure electric vehicle (EV) in China, the Benben Mini, reports Sinocast Daily Business Beat. Xu Liuping, chairman of Changan, said that the company will launch 22 new alternative-fuel vehicles by 2015 and will initiate mass production of the Benben Mini by the latter half of 2010.  It will be priced between 35,000 yuan (US$5,126) and 50,000 yuan (US$7,323) and will be released in Chengdu, capital of southwestern Sichuan province. (December 8, 2009)