Nissan releases first image of its upcoming electric van

On November 5 Nissan released the first concept image of its NV200 all-electric light commercial van, showing there is no stopping their commitment to zero-emissions cars.

With the Nissan Leaf compact expected to become the Prius of the EV world upon its worldwide release in 2011, the Japanese automaker is now showing that it has more than just a spark of ambition for the lucrative commercial van market as well. Vans essentially function as pickup trucks in many major markets, such as Europe, Japan and elsewhere.

And EV vans, such as the Ford Transit Connect EV, are actually beating passenger EVs to market because automakers envision a great compatibility with urban delivery companies, which often work in polluted cities and can easily recharge their fleet overnight.

The NV200 gasoline van debuted earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show, but the NV200 EV reveals a car that resembles the Leaf perhaps more than its gasoline-platform parent.

No other details were released, such as performance, arrival date or intended markets.