![Bugatti Bird-gate Followup: Driver identity revealed <b>[*UPDATE:</b> Now with actual crash video!]](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/bugatti-veyron-swim-1258147199_143x85.jpg)
Geneva Motor Show: Mitsubishi Concept-EZ MIEV
Mitsubishi is following up the Detroit debut of its sporty yet enviro-conscious Concept-CT with this, the Concept-EZ MIEV. The EZ features the same in-wheel motors and high-density Li-ion batteries to drive all four wheels. Each motor produces almost 27 hp, which adds up to a grand total of 108 electrical equine. By ditching the traditional powertrain with its center tunnel, the EZ has a voluminous interior that can be configured in Lounge mode (seats arranged in a circle), Transport mode (seats folded under floor for max cargo space) and Driving mode (conventional seating for five adults).
With all the time, money and effort Mitsu has sunk into its in-wheel motor technology, we’re hoping the technology sees the light of a production day soon so the company can see a return on its investment.
Check out the official press release after the jump. We’ll have Alberto swing by and get live shots later.
EZ: "Easy"- describes the easy-to-use nature of the interior and the vehicle's leisurely functionality
MIEV: Mitsubishi In-wheel motor Electric Vehicle
MITSUBISHI Concept-EZ MIEV walkaround
- The distinctive design projects high-stability road-hugging looks with a wheel-at-a-corner layout made possible by using an outer-rotor type in-wheel motor in each wheel to drive the mono-box body.
- The under-floor lithium-ion battery system keeps the floor low and flat, allowing MITSUBISHI Concept-EZ MIEV to offer roomy passenger space and seating arrangement versatility that matches a large mono-box model within compact 3700 mm (L) x 1800 mm (W) x 1750 mm (H) dimensions.
- Taking maximum advantage of the absence of a centerline powertrain that distinguishes the MIEV concept, MITSUBISHI Concept-EZ MIEV provides three innovative seating arrangements: Lounge mode - A conference room-like space with the seats arranged in a circle, Transport mode - Cavernous luggage space with the rear seats stowed under the floor, Driving mode - Appropriate for normal driving conditions, spacious and comfortable seating for five adults.
- With no central pillar, the double-opening doors on the left side (the rear door swings on hinges located at the rear of the vehicle) enhance passenger entry and exit as well as facilitating loading and unloading of luggage.
- MITSUBISHI Concept-EZ MIEV is powered by a 20 kW outer-rotor in-wheel motor at each wheel, for a maximum output of 80 kW (110 ps). Making upgrades in power and torque easy, this type of in-wheel motor also offers significant advantages in terms of space and operating efficiency, and in weight reduction.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Ebm14 5:31PM (2/28/2006)
This company's internal flame is still light and there is more to come. Soon all of its recent events will be history and quality will no longer be a mystery.
Reply
Gunnar Heinrich 5:48PM (2/28/2006)
Such a cool looking automobile! Even better it runs on alternative energy. This car would do well in an urban setting.
http://www.automobilesdeluxe.blogspot.com
Reply
ocnj179 7:51PM (2/28/2006)
MITSUBISHI keeps showing concepts with this electric motor in the wheel technology but when are they actually gonna use it?
Reply
Mitsufan 10:00PM (2/28/2006)
MITSUBISHI keeps showing concepts with this electric motor in the wheel technology but when are they actually gonna use it?
Posted at 7:51PM on Feb 28th 2006 by ocnj179 0 stars
Good question. At present, the company stated 2010 as its goal, but there are rumors that the release date will be notched up to 2008. See what they have to say in April.
Reply
elektrik motor 5:47AM (3/01/2006)
it's look like sweet. what's the charge time li-ion batteries?
Reply
d.dragomir 10:16PM (3/01/2006)
Just do it Mitsubishi!!!
Mitsubishi must do somethig that will set them apart form others in order to succed (in USA).
MIEV is the greatest think .
They should speed up the proces..
Someone else will capitalise on it soon...
Reply
Gerald Sprayberry 9:10PM (3/18/2006)
DOUBLE "STANDARDS" APPLY...universally??
I am 68 [compare to the average {?} USA 45, and Healthy; and Still working....because I, and most of the people of "retirement" age that I know of; are trying to save money FOR Retirement--"Someday"...AND: the NEXT automobile that I buy, will be sort of a 'city' car...and CHEAP! Like the Original VW bug was. Not a cheap car that is loaded up with high-priced accessories; just what is needed, for ecconomical transportation.
Reply