News

Smith Electric Vehicles is spending £15m on launching its range of electric CVs in the US.

The cash will fund a factory to manufacture US-specific versions of its urban delivery vehicles. A spokesman reports: "As in Europe, we will focus on the drivetrain side of things. We are currently talking to various chassis-cab manufacturers to find a shell."

While the driveline technology will not have to change, the vehicles will be tailored  to suit US driving licence specifications in terms of weight restrictions.

The spokesman adds: "The interest is there. We've conducted the market research and given presentations to blue-chip companies."

Smith wants to produce about 1,000 vehicles in the US next year, expanding to 5,000 in 2009. It also plans to increase its European production capacity, from 200 to 1,500 vehicles.

Smith offers the Edison sub-3.5-tonne van and the Newton, which extends from 7.5 to 12 tonnes. Both are capable of 50mph with a range up to 150 miles.