Bangkok--12 Nov--Mitsubishi Motors
The Mitsubishi i MiEV is a zero-emissions, fully electric vehicle (EV) based on the 660cc gasoline-powered “i" minicar. The i MiEV is filled with innovative technologies including a unique rear-midship layout, high-capacity lithium-ion batteries and a high-performance compact motor.
The i MiEV will go on sale in 2009, starting in Japan.
Mitsubishi Motors is currently conducting i MiEV fleet tests with several electric power companies in Japan in with a view to making EV technology more commercially viable. The company is also conducting market research and test programs in several countries outside Japan in order to test the viability of the technology in a variety of markets. In Europe, MMC and the government of Iceland are in discussions to start fleet testing sometime in fiscal 2009. In North America, Mitsubishi Motors and two California power companies plan to start testing and promotional activities during the current fiscal year. And in New Zealand the company is to work with state-owned electric power company Meridian Energy in a promotional tour next year directed at gauging local interest in the vehicle.
The optimum packaging for EVThe i MiEV replaces the conventional engine and fuel tank with a lithium-ion battery system, motor, inverter and other EV components. The long wheelbase, (2550mm) is equivalent to many larger compact cars and allows ample room for high-capacity lithium-ion batteries under the floor. The rear-midship layout locates the motor and inverter under the back seat, in the same space used to house the conventional engine and transmission in the gasoline “i". The i MiEV can comfortably accommodate four adults plus a reasonable amount of luggage in the rear.
Performance
The i MiEV’s compact, lightweight, high-efficiency motor and 330V battery generate a maximum of 47 kW of power (180N? m torque), providing a maximum speed of 130 km/h and a per-charge cruising distance of 160 km*. Moreover, the car’s passing acceleration from 40 to 60 km/h is 30% better than that of the gasoline “i" while at the same time generating very little noise or vibration. The installation of the batteries under the floor lowers the i MiEV’s center of gravity, providing better handling and a more stable driving dynamic.
* Japan 10-15 Mode Cycle test
Quick charge and normal charge from household outlet The battery system can be charged one of three ways: by quick charge, by a 100V household outlet, or by a 200 V household outlet. The quick charger, under development in cooperation with Tokyo Electric Power Company, is a stand-alone unit that can charge the battery to 80% capacity in 30 minutes. When charging via an ordinary household electric outlet, a full charge takes 14 hours (100 V/15A) or 7 hours (200V/15A).
Eco-friendly vehicle
As a zero-emissions electric vehicle, i MiEV gets high marks for environmental performance. Even when including the CO2 emitted during electricity generation at power plants, the car’s total CO2 footprint** is 72% less than the gasoline-engine “i" minicar. Furthermore, Mitsubishi Motors is collecting field test data in cooperation with its partners to improve the vehicle.
**Well-to-wheel comparison, using Japan-market data
Specification
Base vehicle "i"minicar
Dimensions (L x W x H) 3395 x 1475 x 1600 mm
Vehicle weight 1080 kg
Seating capacity 4
Maximum speed 130 km/h
Cruising distance with a single charge 130 km / 160 km*
(Driving pattern : 10-15 mode)
Charging time 15 Amp/200 V (on-board charger) 7 hrs
(80% capacity)
15 Amp/100 V (on-board charger) 14hrs
3-phase 50 kW/200 V approx. 30 min.
(Quick charger)
Motor Type Permanent magnet
synchronous motor
Max. output 47 kW
Max. torque 180 N-m
Max. speed 8500 rpm
Battery Type Lithium-ion
Total voltage 330 V
Total energy 16 kWh / 20 kWh*
Controller Inverter
Drive Rear wheel drive
Customers who are interested in our products can experience our Mitsubishi Motors’ high automotive technology in Motor Expo at Booth No.A05, Challenger Hall, Muang Thong Tanee from November 28th — December 10th 2008. For more information, please contact Mitsubishi Call Center: Tel. 1800-900-009.
For more information please contact Product Public Relations
Tel.02-529-9117