Greentech Lead Asia: Origin Energy (Origin), an energy
retailer in Australia, and Nissan Motor Company Australia announced their
strategic alliance for developing the electric vehicles market in Australia.
Origin will be the preferred Electro Mobility Operator
(EMO) for the new Nissan LEAF electric vehicle.
Origin Energy said this alliance will redefine electric
vehicle customer purchasing and driving experience and help establish electric
vehicles as a viable and sustainable alternative to fossil fuelled vehicles.
Australian commercial, fleet and residential buyers of
Nissan LEAF will benefit from Origin’s fully-installed charging equipment and
services, as well as efficient electricity management and advice.
“The Nissan LEAF has the potential to change the shape of
urban and suburban motoring in Australia, and this agreement with Origin gives
us a major strategic competitive advantage. It is this shared awareness of and
advocacy for cleaner forms of energy that makes the Nissan and Origin agreement
such a fitting and promising one,” said Dan Thompson, Nissan CEO Australia.
“Nissan is a leading electric vehicle manufacturer and
Origin is seeking to support this technology with electric vehicle charging
equipment and services, delivering a simple and effective one-stop solution to
consumers. Together with Nissan, Origin hopes to encourage a less oil-dependent
motoring culture in Australia,” said Phil Craig, Origin Executive General
Manager Corporate Affairs.
More than 25,000 Nissan LEAFs are already on the roads
around the world. The LEAF is scheduled to be introduced into the Australian
market shortly.