The first mass-produced fully-electric car, Mitsubishi’s i-MiEV, has hit the streets of the Inner West.

Minister for Transport and Member for Grayndler Anthony Albanese took one of these new, revolutionary vehicles for a test drive through some of the narrow streets of Newtown and Camperdown.

Mr Albanese said the first 40 cars available in Australia will be offered to governments, the media and fleet buyers as a way of encouraging the trialling and uptake of these alternative power vehicles.

“Wherever possible governments should lead by example and the Rudd Government will be acquiring and trialling a number of these new vehicles within its own fleet,” said Mr Albanese.

“I congratulate Mitsubishi on the investment they’re making in the cutting edge technology which over time will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality within our cities,” said Mr Albanese.

“The i-MiEV represents a revolution in car design. Its 47kW motor uses no petrol and when recharged with electricity from renewable sources, it is 100 per cent emissions free.

“More broadly, I’m encouraged by the innovation currently taking place within the automotive industry both here and overseas as manufacturer strive to develop greener and more fuel efficient vehicles in response to changing community expectations.”

Anthony with the Mitsubishi i-MiEV near Camperdown Oval.