Tokyo, Japan – The Renault Nissan Alliance and the city of Yokohama have announced a partnership to study sustainable mobility solutions for Yokohama. Under the Environment Model City pilot, Yokohama aims to achhieve significant CO2 reductions by experimenting with a range of methodologies across key sectors, including transportation, housing and renewable energy development.

Nissan will introduce an all-electric vehicle in Yokohama by 2010, making the city one of the first in the world to offer the vehicle.

The scope of the partnership includes measures to promote eco-driving, a study of route navigation systems to alleviate traffic congestion, and measures to promote the mass acceptance of electric vehicles, such as customer incentives and the development of a vehicle charging infrastructure. Nissan has been piloting its Intelligent Transport Systems in Yokohama since September 2006, combining telematics and vehicle navigation systems. The University of Tokyo is also participating to monitor and evaluate the program’s progress.

“Through our Environment Model City pilot, we hope to define an innovative vision that leads to CO2 reduction, sustainability and improved quality of life for our citizens,” said Yokohama mayor Hiroshi Nakada. “We look forward to a mutually beneficial partnership with Nissan.”