Nissan has started the production of its second all-electric vehicle - the e-NV200 - which will be available as both a passenger vehicle and van.

The Nissan plant in Barcelona will be the global production site for ththe e-NV200, which will also become available as an electric taxi.

The e-NV200 will initially be exported to around 20 international markets, including Japan. Just as with the Nissan Leaf introduction, the number of markets will grow after the initial launch, to continue the company's electric vehicle expansion.

Nissan chief planning officer Andy Palmer hosted the VIP guests at the event, adding: "This is a great landmark day for Nissan, starting production of our second electric vehicle.

"This is at a time when EVs are now recognized as mainstream technology, many competitors are only just starting to launch their first EV and where Nissan has clear first mover advantage.

"We're proud that the Nissan Leaf is the world's best-selling electric vehicle with more than 110,000 delighted customers enjoying the quiet and smooth ride of an EV."

Barcelona will be the first city in the world to introduce the e-NV200 as a 100% electric taxi, an initiative Palmer believes is vital for the city, adding: "This e-NV200 taxi has renewed significance in the wake of record levels of air pollution in London and Paris.

"Bringing a significant number of zero emission vehicles to Barcelona's streets will ensure cleaner air for every citizen, visitor and tourist, and we're confident that forward-thinking councils everywhere will be clamoring to bring these benefits to their municipalities in the coming years."