It was launched in Japan as Nissan NV200 Vanette on May 21, 2009, and in Europe in autumn 2009.. In April 2010, it was named the Professional Van and Light Truck Magazine Van of the Year 2010. In China, NV200 is built by Nissan in partnership with Dongfeng Motor, and is released in June 2010. An electric vehicle based on NV200 will also be released. The NV200 is one of three finalists (alongside the Karsan V-1 and Ford Transit Connect) for New York City's Taxi of Tomorrow. The winning model will be announced in early 2011 and will be awarded a 10-year contract to serve the city exclusively.