Singapore forms task force to test bed electric vehicles

A multi-agency task force has been set up to spearhead the test-bedding of electric vehicles (EVs) in Singapore. The Energy Market Authority (EMA) and Land Transport Authority (LTA) have been named to chair the task force. It also includes members across different ministries and statutory boards, including the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR); the Economic Development Board (EDB) and the National Environment Agency (NEA). The EV test-bed is expected to run from 2010 to 2012, and according to the Singapore government will serve as a platform for companies to formulate and adapt solutions for use in other countries. All interested auto manufacturers and technology companies will be allowed to participate in the test-bedding, for which the Singaporean government has set aside S$20 million (US$13.58 million). The EV task force signed agreements with the Renault-Nissan Alliance and Keppel Energy Pte. Ltd., in order to kick start the initiative. Under the agreement, Renault-Nissan will supply EVs to the Singapore market and help in the development of common standards for EVs. Keppel will meanwhile focus on developing charging stations and other EV support infrastructure. (May 6, 2009)