 FHI, TEPCO, and NEC Lamilion Energy (NLE) jointly received an award from the Ministry of the Environment in November 2006 for the development of the R1e.In February 2007, Subaru announced its intent to market the R1e as a city commuting car.Subaru would go on to release the electric concept G4e at the Tokyo Motor Show in late 2007 as a follow-up to the R1e with an improved battery, range, and bolder styling.