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Japanese auto giant Nissan is aiming to sell 1.5 million electric vehicles around the world by 2016, the company said this week, as it looks to capitalize on growing demand for green products.

Japan's second-largest automaker behind Toyota said it wants to be the world's largest player in so-called "zero-emission vehicles," including a new fuelcell electric vehicle developed with Daimler.

The company, which is 43.8 per cent owned by French partner Renault, has sold 15,000 Leaf electric cars, the only model it produces, but plans to add seven models across the group.

"More consumers are demanding products in line with their values, including cars and trucks with a lower carbon footprint. At the same time, we are using technology to make our factories greener and more efficient," said Nissan president and chief executive officer Carlos Ghosn.

"Nissan wants to be part of the solution toward a sustainable society - for the sake of the planet and as a significant competitive advantage and a strategic differentiator in the global manufacturing sector."

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