The Korean government will invest a total of 40 billion won (US$ 35.89 million) in establishing a micro-mobility industry in Korea from 2014 to 2017. (image: Renault)
SEOUL, Jun. 15 (Korea Bizwire) — The Korean government will spend 5 billion won (US$ 4.48 million) on Korean SMEs to develop three-wheeled mini EVs until 2016, according to an announcement on June 14.
The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) already initiated a 7 billion won (US$ 6.28 million) project last year to develop four-wheeled mini EVs until 2017.
The Korean government will invest a total of 40 billion won (US$ 35.89 million) in establishing a micro-mobility industry in Korea from 2014 to 2017.
Mini EVs will be made to be affordable at prices under 10 million won (US$ 8.970) for urban citizens.
The government is also projecting to develop tailored mini EVs for citizens with disabilities, as diversified EVs can be produced even at small production volumes.
Establishing charging facilities for mini EVs is relatively easier than for existing EVs, as mini-EVs can also be charged with home electricity.
People who use existing electric wheelchairs and electric scooters have been susceptible to wide-open exposure to weather and road conditions.
They are also put at risk when sharing the road with conventional cars and trucks, as there are no dedicated roads or sidewalks for electric wheelchairs.
By John Choi (johnchoi@koreabizwire.com)
