Renault Samsung Motors has started to mass produce the SM3 Z.E. in its Busan plant, the carmaker said on Monday.

Starting next year, the company plans to produce up to 4,000 of the vehicles annually with the aim of becoming a leader in the electric car industry.

“Electric cars will be the engines of growth leading the green growth of Korea,” said Francois Provost, chief executive of the company, adding Renault Samsung Motors had every intention of fully supporting the initiative.

In the ten “pioneer” cities for electric vehicles, the carmaker has been making preparations to install quick recharging stations and after sales service networks.

Changwon, Dangjin and Daejeon are among these ten cities.

“Busan City will be making endeavors of its own to help with the popularization of electric cars, starting with implementing electric car taxis and expanding the recharging station network,” said Hur Nam-sik, mayor of Busan. “By such measures, we hope to assist Renault Samsung Motors’ efforts to localize and contribute to the local community.”

The SM3 Z.E. is the nation’s first full-electric compact car, and an initial fleet of 107 has been delivered to Jeju Island.

It can drive up to 135 kilometers after one charge, at a maximum speed of 135 kilometers per hour, while its maximum torque is 25.5 kg-m.

By Kim Ji-hyun (jemmie@heraldcorp.com)