国际英语新闻：EDF, Renault-Nissan cement cooperation on electronic cars

PARIS, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- World's leading electricity producer EDF and car manufacturer Renault-Nissan signed on Friday an accord aiming at strengthening cooperation on electronic cars.

The agreement was signed by Carlos Ghosn, Renault-Nissan's head and Henri Proglio, EDF chairman at the Paris international Motor show that opened to press on Thursday and Friday.

The two French companies started cooperation on electronic cars since two year ago. Both seek under the new accord to confirm their partnership in development of batteries, electric vehicle testing and recharging infrastructure and offers of electric mobility customers, Renault said in a statement.

Renault-Nissan will provide electric vehicles in 2011, while EDF is expected to offer installers. The cooperation also proposed a consultancy service for enterprises and communities.

The French energy company "takes the charge to accompany buyers of Renault-Nissan electric to enjoy their new acquisition," Proglio told reporters.

"With this partnership, the Renault-Nissan and EDF are pooling their expertise to make electric mobility a reality and making France one of the pioneers for the development of electric vehicles," Ghosn said.

Ghosn predicted that electric cars will account for 10 percent of global vehicle sales by 2020. Renault and Nissan alliance is planning to launch eight electric vehicles by 2014.