Yi Whan-woo is a Korea Times journalist primarily covering finance. He writes in-depth articles on macroeconomy and financial markets and previously covered sports, politics, diplomacy and inter-Korean affairs, among others. Feel free to contact him at yistory@koreatimes.co.kr.
Korea to roll out 2,500 electric cars this year
By Yi Whan-woo
The Ministry of Environment said Tuesday that 2,500 electric cars will be produced in Korea this year as part of the nation뭩 efforts to promote low-carbon green growth.
A ministry official said Kia Motors, one of the country’s leading automakers, delivered its electric car, the Ray EV1, to Environment Minister Yoo Young-sook in a ceremony at the Gwacheon Government Complex, just south of Seoul.
“A supply of electric cars that emit no carbon is crucial in combating climate change,” Yoo said.
The ministry has made efforts to boost the electric car industry, providing financial support for buyers of environment-friendly automobiles.
The price of the Ray EV is 45 million won ($39,800), of which the ministry will provide buyers with 15 million won in support and another 8.8 million won for power recharging devices. The model can run at the maximum speed of 130km an hour. It can go as far as 135km before needing recharging.
A cheaper model costs 21 million won, and customers can receive a subsidy of 5.78 million won for it as well as additional support for power recharging gadgets. The ministry plans to test-drive the cars on Jeju Island from the second half of the year.