The vision of tranquil modern cities, with inhabitants gliding by silently in electric cars, may be shattered by European plans to introduce artificial warning sounds to the new generation of zero-emission vehicles. Some manufacturers may opt for an engine noise while others choose the sound of spacecraft from science fiction films.

Nissan Motor Co. said its new electric car, the LEAF, will be sold for 3.76 million yen ($40,000) in Japan, less expensive than other zero-emission vehicles but still out of reach for many drivers who may also balk at its limited range.

Top Japanese carmakers Toyota and Nissan helped set up a group to standardize fast-charge stations for electric cars on Monday in a bid to promote the spread of the zero-emission vehicles.

California residents who purchase electric cars after March 15th, 2010, will be eligible for a slice of the $4.1 million Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP). The incentive program could award up to a $5000 rebate to private consumers who purchase new cars that meet the criteria. Commercial vehicles could have rebates up to $20,000.

Top Japanese carmakers Toyota and Nissan helped set up a group to standardize fast-charge stations for electric cars on Monday in a bid to promote the spread of the zero-emission vehicles. The group, led by Japan's biggest utility, Tokyo Electric Power, Toyota Motor,

The new darlings of this year's Tokyo Motor Show are a fleet of electric cars driven by a dream to become affordable zero-emission vehicles.

Renault aims to be the first big producer of zero-emission vehicles.