ZAP Forms Joint Venture in China with XEBRA Manufacturer

27 September 2006

ZAP has signed an agreement to form a joint venture with China auto manufacturer Shandong Jindalu Vehicle Company Ltd.—the manufacturer of the XEBRA electric micro-car which ZAP imports. (Earlier post.)

The joint venture involves the design and manufacture of a new generation of low-cost advanced transportation vehicles that run efficiently on gas, electricity, ethanol and other unspecified advanced technologies and fuels.

ZAP has established an office in Dezhou, China, to support the joint venture. Officials from ZAP and Shandong Jindalu say they expect to announce more developments shortly.

ZAP and its partner are inviting entrepreneurs, capitalists, governmental and educational institutions throughout China and the world to join in the effort. Those in the industries of energy storage, battery manufacturing, solar energy, engine development, new material design, automobile manufacturing and parts and supplies as well as engineering and design are encouraged to participate.

Our work with ZAP’s various micro-cars like the cost-effective electric XEBRA has shown that new approaches to transportation are possible. Scientists, climate and pollution data and the current state of affairs as well as the price of oil are telling us that we must change our ways. What is needed is real leadership. We are proud to be part of a true collaboration between the USA and China in the manufacturing, design and distribution of our first generation of ZAP cars.

—Gary Starr, Chairman of ZAP