Japanese auto giant Honda has chosen the Marshall Islands to trial new electronic vehicle (EV) charging technologies, because the country is so reliant on imports for its energy supply and is highly susceptible to the effect of rising sea levels, making it perfect to showcase the equipment.
The Honda Motor Company is working closely with the RMI government on the project, with the latter keen to show its determination to take action on global climate issues.
Honda Chairman and Representative Director Fumijiko Ike flew into Majuro for the official launch of the testing program outside the Nitijela Monday, with speeches given by President Christopher Loeak, Japan Ambassador Hideyuki Mitsuoka, Foreign Minister Tony de Brum, and Ike.
“Electric vehicles offer significant environmental benefits such as reducing fossil fuel dependence and carbon emissions,” Loeak told the crowd. “It is our anticipation to green the entire fleet of government vehicles, redirecting the $1.5 million we spend each year on fuel towards much needed projects on the ground.”
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