The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote zero-emission mobility in the Kingdom, heralding the first partnership of its kind in the Arab region.

The MOU was signed by His Excellency Hazem Malhas, Minister of Environment, and Nissan's Corporate Vice President Gilles Normand at a formal ceremony, in the presence of His Excellency Samir Rifai, the Prime Minister of Jordan, and several other Ministers of the cabinet. Also in attendance was His Excellency Tetsuo Shioguchi, the Ambassador of Japan to Jordan.

Under the MOU, Jordan and Nissan will undertake to promote electric vehicles as a sustainable mobility solution, which will help Jordan address the key issues of energy independence, CO2 emissions and environmental conservation.

According to H.E. Hazem Malhas, Minister of Environment: "I firmly believe we have an obligation to our future generations to take the necessary actions towards a greener and better world. The introduction of electric cars offers many advantages, not only for the environment, but also from an economic, social and national security perspective."

In taking this bold and visionary step, Jordan will position itself as a leader in zero emission mobility within the Arab region.

"For a country that enjoys 330 days of sun per year, such technology will provide an excellent alternative to the conventional automobiles," continued H.E.

According to Gilles Normand, Nissan's Corporate Vice President: "Nissan applauds the Kingdom of Jordan for its vision and strong commitment to sustainable mobility. We are pleased that Jordan and its peoples share in our vision to make zero emission mobility a reality."

"With the Nissan LEAF, we have an electric car with the real technology to meet the needs and challenges of the 21st century mobility. It offers 160 kilometers of driving autonomy and superb handling without having to sacrifice on comfort and convenience of modern lifestyles," added Normand.

The MOU will focus on ensuring all the necessary conditions for electric vehicle mass market are in place, particularly government incentives, charging infrastructure and public education. Jordan will also consider to purchase up to 300 units of Nissan LEAFs for its public sector. The Government is also working to finalize it electric vehicle standards.

A Working Group will commence to study the implementation of an Electric Vehicle Pilot Program, potentially within the Greater Amman Municipality and other stakeholders. Taking a holistic approach to zero emission, the partners will also explore renewable energy for electric vehicle charging using solar energy, the use of second-life batteries, as well as other new mobility concepts such as car-sharing.

The zero emission partnership marks another milestone in the long history of Japan and Jordan's strong bi-lateral relations.

Nissan LEAF, is the world's first affordable, 100% electric, zero-emission vehicle. The vehicle's motor produces up to 80 kW of power and 280Nm of torque, enough for a maximum speed of 140 km/h. The electric motor is powered by a laminated lithium-ion battery with a power output of more than 90 kW.

A full charge delivers a range of 160 km (US LA4 mode) which will satisfy the daily driving demands of most customers. Global research indicates that the average daily mileage for 80 percent of the world's population is under 100 km.