China
The Chinese government is taking steps to accelerate the development and use of electric and alternative fuel vehicles. Vice-minister for science and technology Deng Nan said initial results have been achieved in developing automobiles which run on clean fuel. "Developing environment-friendly motor vehicle technology in line with China's resources is significant for ensuring the sustainable development of nation's automobile manufacturing industry,' said Deng.
During 1997, a total of 13.9 million motor vehicles were sold in China. In 1999, the output of passenger vehicles and trucks alone is expected to surpass the 1997 figure. The government's decision is significant because China has relatively limited oil reserves, but vast natural gas resources. The nation has also been a net importer of petroleum products since 1994.
The government has listed the development and commercialisation of electric vehicles as key national programmes. Studies of various international technological standards of electric vehicles and related national standards have already been formulated, said Deng. In addition, an electric vehicle research and demonstration zone has been established in Nan'ao, in south China's Gaungdong province.
China has also signed an agreement with an Italian design firm to jointly develop concepts for electric vehicles and has signed an agreement with the us, Japan and Australia to develop alternative fuel vehicles.
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