Nissan: plugged in since 1947!

A brief historical review of the "roots" of electrification by Nissan proves that the success of the current electric LEAF should not be considered a coincidence...

In the 1940s, with the end of World War II, Tachikawa Aircraft (later to become Tama Cars Co.) began developing electric vehicles. The reason for this was the great shortage of gasoline at the time. Thus, in 1947, the company managed to create a prototype 2-seater truck (and capable of carrying a 500 kg load) with a 4.5 hp engine and a new body design. The vehicle in question was the 'Tama', taking its name from the region of the same name in which it was built.

Its top speed was 34 km/h. The company then created its first passenger car. With two doors and seating for four passengers, this vehicle could reach a maximum speed of 35 km/h, covering a distance of 65 km on a single charge. The former aircraft manufacturer had developed many, innovative ideas regarding the design and construction of the Tama, such as its battery packs.

Specifically, the battery compartment was located in a "compartment" - a chamber, on the floor of the electric Tama. There were two such 'compartments', one on each side. Each battery compartment had rollers so that used batteries could be taken out and quickly changed with corresponding charged batteries. Thanks to this technology, the Tama took first place in the relevant performance tests of Japan's Ministry of Trade and Industry in 1948.

The Tama was produced as both a passenger car and a truck, in petrol and electric versions. In June 1948, Tachikawa Aircraft changed its name to Tama Cars Co. The Tama Junior (1948) and Tama Senior (1949) passenger models were produced under its umbrella. In 1952, the company was renamed Prince Motor Co, Ltd, and in 1966 Prince merged with Nissan.

Tama electric car specifications (1947)

Total length/width/height: 3,035/1,230/1,630 mm

Wheelbase: 2.000 mm

Weight: 1,100 kg