Miami electric vehicle dealer finds opportunity in Cuban gas shortage

An electric vehicle dealer with a Miami subsidiary is informing Cuba-based diplomats battling with a gasoline scarcity on the Communist-run Caribbean island that they need to worry anymore.

The United States, which preserves a trade embargo on Cuba, licensed Premier Automotive Export to offer vehicles to non-state entities in Cuba, such as embassies and private firms, as part of detente under Obama administration.

“We put together a special offer and are distributing the flier – a 2016 Nissan Leaf electric sedan, plus super charger, for $25,000, including shipping direct from Miami to Mariel Port,” stated John Felder, owner of Premier’s Cayman Islands-based parent, Automotive Leasing and Sales Co.

The cash-strapped Cuban government cut down shipment of high-octane gasoline this month, sending out diplomats, other foreigners and better-off Cubans rushing to find fuel and waiting in long lines to fill their vehicles.

It was unclear the length of time the shortage would last, and the government has not talked about the scenario.

Many Cubans who own vehicles, mainly vintage American and Soviet-era models, use lesser-quality fuel that can harm modern engines.

To this day, Felder has sold just one of his vehicles, to the Guyanese Embassy prior to the shortages started.

Ambassador Halim Majeed stated his government acquired the automobile as part of its green energy effort, and now it has proved handy indeed.

“I’m fortunate, and I more than happy about that,” he stated.

Majeed said other diplomats had constantly shown interest in his electric car, however there was more now.

“It is natural that when one deals with an issue, you develop methods and means to conquer that obstacle,” he stated, “and in this situation, the electrical car can help do that.”

Cuba depends on Venezuela for about 70 percent of its fuel requirements, including oil for refining and re-exports.