Melbourne show: Mitsu production EV ready to roll

MITSUBISHI will use the Melbourne International Motor Show this week to exhibit one of two pre-production versions of its zero-emissions electric i-MiEV light car that have been brought to Australia ahead of a feasibility study commencing next month.

Striving to become the first mainstream car manufacturer to sell an electric vehicle in Australia, Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) anticipates the i-MiEV – which will be launched in Japan in the coming months – will generate massive interest in Melbourne.

“This is the first time a production-ready electric vehicle has ever featured at an Australian motor show,” said MMAL president and CEO Robert McEniry.

“Hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles are becoming increasingly common in this current environmentally conscious climate, but Australia hasn’t seen anything like the i-MiEV before.” According to Mitsubishi, the rear-drive i-MiEV offers 33 per cent lower running costs per kilometre when compared with a similar-sized petrol car.

The eco micro uses a compact 330V lithium-ion battery and a permanent magnet synchronous engine that produces 47kW of power and 180Nm of torque. Performance claims include a top speed of 130km/h and, tested under Japanese conditions, a driving range of up to 160km from a single charge.

Mitsubishi also claims it takes seven hours for full battery recharging from a normal domestic household power supply. The battery is said to be maintenance-free and has a lifespan of around 10 years or 150,000km.

MMAL brand and marketing vice-president Paul Unerkov said the i-MiEV demonstrated the company’s brand values in the current green-fuelled era.

“Mitsubishi has made huge investments in research and developmental, we are striving to enhance our sustainability initiatives, and the i-MiEV is a clear demonstration of these principles combined,” he said. “And everyone at Mitsubishi is excited about this vehicle.

“We can’t wait to see the public reaction from the i-MiEV’s appearance in Melbourne, and to see the results of our extensive feasibility studies following the motor show.” An Australian launch date for the vehicle is still to be confirmed. Styling variations on the initial production car shown here have also emerged, with a Sport version unveiled at the Tokyo motor show last year and an Air Sport version to make its world debut at next week’s Geneva motor show.

As well as Australia, feasibility studies are being conducted in the UK, New Zealand, the US, Canada, Europe and Iceland.

Its Australian program includes public demonstrations, specialist briefings and drive experiences for key government officials, fleet managers, environmental opinion leaders and the media. Longer-term trials will be introduced later in the year.

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