SUVA, May 30 (Xinhua) -- Fiji will launch a pilot project to establish a new commercial electric vehicle leasing model.
ZekiTek Pty Ltd, a Queensland-based manufacturer of renewable energy technology and electrical charging systems, has partnered with the Australian government's Market Development Facility for this project in Fiji.
This partnership aims to establish a business case for local companies to switch to a new EV commercial leasing model, eliminating upfront capital costs and enabling them to enjoy expected cost savings on fuel and maintenance, reported Fiji Broadcasting Corporation on Thursday.
ZekiTek Founder Rikesh Ram said they are laying the foundation for EV charging infrastructure around Viti Levu, Fiji's largest island, and have imported an E-Van from Australia to conduct a six-month pilot trial.
The trial will showcase the commercial feasibility and environmental benefits of electric vehicles.
The Pacific island countries and territories' fossil fuel imports cost the region approximately 6 billion U.S. dollars annually, between 5 percent and 15 percent of the gross domestic product of Pacific island economies.
In Fiji alone, petroleum products make up 20 percent of total imports. ■