Being powered by an abundance of electricity from hydropower development, Bhutan plans to become a leader in the use of electric cars. The project was first announced Prime Minister of Bhutan Tshering Tobgay in 2014.
Electric vehicles are introduced consisting of Nissan LEAF and Mahindra Reva, made in India. "Electricity is like oil for us. This is the most abundant resource," said Tobgay, as written website Auto ET, Wednesday, June 10, 2015. He is targeting a reduction in the use of fossil oil by 70 percent by 2020.
Bhutan electric car project apparently did not go smoothly. There is misinformation about battery life. A year since its introduction, electric cars are milling about on the road only 50 units. This figure is less than 10 percent of the total cars in the tiny country.
The LEAF battery warranty for 16 years. "We have not been getting complaints from users," said Chief Executive Officer Thunder Motor - Nissan representative in Bhutan - Tashi Wangchuk.
He appreciated the government's electric car project. Electric cars are considered capable of reducing the tax burden for consumers who have been relying on imported products. In addition, the electric car is a sign of improvement of infrastructure progress. To support electric cars, the government provides six electric charging station supported Nissan.
Mahindra Reva apparently still had to fight hard to win public attention Bhutan. Company representatives said, until now, no one cars sold. This is expected because the price is too expensive.
One unit Reva priced at US $ 16,129. LEAF while it costs US $ 14,516 or approximately USD 193 million. Nissan's price given a special for the first 77 buyers.
"Mahindra Reva has not proved to be a good vehicle," said a representative Zimdra Automobiles, dealers of the most popular in Bhutan, Ugen Tsechup. He said Zimdra not interested in offering commercial Reva. Nevertheless, this car can be an option if Nissan raised prices.
The government expressed optimism about the prospects of the electric car, despite obstacles. "We have a serious commitment to advancing transportation," said Tobgay.
