New York: Mitsubishi confirms i-MiEV will come to U.S.
Mitsubishi i MiEV - Click above for high-res image gallery
At a press conference in a few minutes here at the New York Auto Show, Mitsubishi representatives will officially announce that the i-MiEV electric vehicle - already a hit in test drives and displays the world over - will be coming to the U.S. This move has been hinted at for a long while, but now we know for certain that the electric jellybean, based on the "i" minicar, is coming. Official details are scarce, but company representatives told us ahead of schedule that the car would be available here sometime "before 2012." The problem isn't the technology (a left-hand drive model should go on sale in Europe in 2011 after the right-hand model hits Japan this summer and the UK, maybe in 2010), but rather guaranteeing a supply of lithium for the car's batteries. If GS Yuasa can't produce the batteries, then Mitsubishi can't make the cars. Mitsubishi recently upped production plans in order to make 20,000 units a year. But don't get too attached to the i-MiEV name (which stands for "Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle"); when this car comes to the U.S., it'll get a fresh moniker.
Speaking of the iMiEV; it looks like AutoblogGreen readers know a good thing when they see one. The iMiEV dominated our recent poll of which car should win the World Green Car of the Year over the Honda FCX Clarity and the Toyota iQ. The judges of the event, though, disagreed and picked the hydrogen fuel cell Clarity as the 2009 winner this morning.
Gallery: New York 2009: iMiEV
Gallery: i-MiEV in HD
Show photos Copyright ©2009 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.
PRESS RELEASE
Mitsubishi Motors Green Lights i MiEV Electric Car For Global Markets
State of Oregon and Portland General Electric Join Test Program
Mitsubishi Motors is accelerating its drive toward greater environmental responsibility and reinforcing its Drive@Earth global sustainability initiative by announcing today its commitment to develop the pure electric, four-passenger Mitsubishi i MiEV for global markets.
Ending months of heightening speculation, Mitsubishi Motors North America President and CEO Shinichi Kurihara confirmed the i MiEV (Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle) is being developed for sale in world markets, including the United States.
"Electric vehicles are one branch of the automotive landscape and we are dedicated to providing these technology-sourced solutions as an important path for the world's clean-air options," explained Kurihara, who stood alongside a Left Hand Drive i MiEV during his address to journalists at the New York International Auto Show. "We believe the i MiEV delivers on the promise of sustainability, suitable range, performance, and innovative packaging and styling."
The award-winning Mitsubishi i MiEV is expected to be the world's first practical electric vehicle offered by a major automobile manufacturer when fleet sales begin this July in Japan.
State of Oregon and Portland General Electric Join Partnership
Kurihara was pleased to also announce that the State of Oregon and Portland General Electric (PGE) (NYSE:POR) are joining Mitsubishi in the i MiEV partnership program. "State of Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski is a progressive thinker who is providing a roadmap of the future," commented Kurihara. "The State of Oregon and Portland General Electric will become valuable partners in helping validate the future of all electric vehicles."
Details of the programs are being finalized, but the findings from these real-world, independent tests will play an important role in further advancing the car's development for the U.S. market.
"Oregon welcomes the partnership with Mitsubishi as we transition to the next generation in vehicle technology. Together, we can build a consistent and reliable infrastructure so consumers can make the switch seamlessly to electric vehicles," Governor Kulongoski said. "The partnership shows that a state can create opportunity for its commitment to a greener future - wins for our economy and our environment."
PGE is rolling out a network of charging stations across its service territoryin Oregonand the addition of i MiEVs further facilitates its support of next-generation electric vehicles.PGE currently has more than a dozen charging stations up and running.
"We are developing a model charging station infrastructure across our service territory to advance the electric vehicle market in Oregon for our customers," said Jim Piro, president and CEO, PGE. "Our customers are number one in the nation in purchasing renewable power so clearly they are committed to sustainability. We expect Oregon to be one of the top markets for next generation electric vehicles. We lookforward to partnering with Mitsubishiand the state of Oregonon this important project."
Mitsubishi i MiEV Performance
Based on the successful Japanese market "i" car, the electric version replaces the i's conventional gasoline engine, transmission and fuel tank with an advanced lithium-ion battery system, electric motor and onboard charging system. Unique rear mid-ship architecture allowed Mitsubishi Motors to seamlessly integrate the new components under the seats, luggage compartment and floor deck, meaning no compromise in interior cabin space. In fact, there are few visual sight cues that indicate the vast technological differences between the gasoline and electric models.
With its high-torque electric motor and clever packaging, the i MiEV offers an intelligent combination of useful performance with small physical and carbon footprints, plus a roomy interior and a sensible range of approximately 80 miles from its advanced lithium-ion battery pack.
The i MiEV's battery pack consists of 22 modules, each one consisting of four cells that can be installed in either a vertical or transverse position under the i MiEV's floor. The i MiEV's onboard charger automatically adapts between a standard 110 outlet - which takes 12-14 hours - or half that time on 220. There is also a fast charge connector that allows the battery to reach 80 percent of capacity in just 30 minutes.
The proprietary lithium-ion batteries are purpose-built for automotive applications. It is produced by Lithium Energy Japan, a joint venture among GS Yuasa, Mitsubishi Corporation and Mitsubishi Motors.
About Mitsubishi Motors Corporation
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development operations for Mitsubishi Motors in the United States. MMNA sells coupes, convertibles, sedans, sport utility vehicles and light trucks through a network of approximately 420 dealers. For more information, contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (888) 560-6672 or visit media.mitsubishicars.com.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
Tourian 9:48AM (4/09/2009)
This will do wonders for Mitsubishis reputation in this country. I just hope it doesn't mean the end of fun cars like the Evo so they don't upset the greenies by offering a product that has power and performance.
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Luis 9:59AM (4/09/2009)
Why would it end cars like the Evo? I think you are using that to attack when no attack is necessary.
UltimoDragon 10:55AM (4/09/2009)
I agree with Luis, Tourian, what need was there for the 'greenies' comment?
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: If you value personal transportation and are in any way averse to public transit, you'd better hope these advancements in alternative fuels and propulsion pay off, as they are going to keep everyone driving longer.
There's no 'second amendment' guaranteeing your right to honkin' V8 power and RWD.
Tourian 11:43AM (4/09/2009)
So is "greenies" a dirty word now? A slur?
Okay, economists, fine. Mitsubishi themselves have said they will focus on small eco friendly and fuel effecient vehicles. They definitely want to improve their image in this country. If they continue to build off road and high performance vehicles like the Evo and Montero (even thought its not currently offered here) someone will undoubtedly point the finger as that being contradictary to their proposed image and could possible hurt their PR.
How the hell is that an "attack"
Derek 12:00PM (4/09/2009)
You made a great comment, and I have no idea how people read that as an attack. Personally (and most people would probably agree), I think its great when a company can offer both economical and high MPG vehicles alongside innovative sports/luxury vehicles.
Tourian 9:00AM (4/10/2009)
Ooops, ecologists.
Thanks Derek.
Foxtrot 6:05PM (4/10/2009)
I wouldnt worry about the replies, both of them appear to be communists anyway. If you dont believe me look at they're posting history.
the_MVP_X 9:57AM (4/09/2009)
Umm, another Pikachu small car, one in yellow please.
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Bloke 10:09AM (4/09/2009)
You are familiar with the existing petrol-engined Mitsubishi i, right?
ugg.tryptophan 10:18AM (4/09/2009)
hope that theres no need for added fat bumpers, or we'll have another cube on our hands
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Paul Jackson 10:39AM (4/09/2009)
Looks like the Tata Nano
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Gary 11:19AM (4/09/2009)
I was an auto show recently where the only attendee comment I heard about it mentioned how ugly it was.
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another_one 11:41AM (4/09/2009)
No uglier than the iQ!
Actually I think it is better looking than the Nano and the iQ.
But ditch the batteries for a small diesel or gas engine please!
Tourian 11:44AM (4/09/2009)
@UltimoDragon
Evos are 4cyl and AWD. Mitsubishi has never built a V8 RWD car, so what are you even talking about with 2nd ammendment rights?
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Rob 12:04PM (4/09/2009)
75 - 100 mile range with all the creature comforts? Step aside, Volt...
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Level 12:32PM (4/09/2009)
every time I see this car it reminds me of how similar the Tata Nano is lol....
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Evan 1:02PM (4/09/2009)
Why is the gasoline version not being sold right now in North America?
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BoxerFanatic 1:12PM (4/09/2009)
Snore. Another enclosed golf-cart masquerading as a car.
I hope that it comes out with a less convoluted name, for those who prefer driving an enclosed golf cart.
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I am Rich 1:44PM (4/09/2009)
What do you get when you cross a Toyota IQ and a Tata Nano?
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GOT 3:14AM (4/10/2009)
The design is a little quirky (too narrow for the length and height) but I like the car. They did a good job at making it look appealing.
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