Mitsubishi i-MiEV

Winner of the “Most Advanced Technology” Special Achievement Award in Japan’s Car of the Year 2009 – 2010, the Mitsubishi iMiEV attempts to offer a solution to the usual drawbacks of a conventional Electric Vehicle. The birth of iMiEV was made possible by the introduction of the Lithium-ion battery. It is touted as the pioneer that will begin the next 100 years of the automotive industry which is historically dependent on oil.

The iMiEV is the first mass-produced electric vehicle of Japan. Its makers challenge drivers to experience the quietness, better acceleration response and natural handling response of the vehicle. Its use also does not result in the emission of exhaust gas.

Based on the gasoline-driven 660 cc “i” minicar, the iMiEV uses a lithium-ion battery plus motor, inverter and other EV components in place of the traditional engine, transmission and fuel tank. Its rear-midship layout as provided by the long wheelbase, allows for space under the floor within which to place the high capacity batteries while also providing space to house the conventional engine and transmission. It has a four-occupant seating capacity.

There are two types of battery charging systems accepted by the iMiEV. One is through the household charger system wherein the vehicle can be charged either from a 100v or 200v ordinary electric outlets either at home or in a parking lot. For this option, the household charger plug located on the right side of the vehicle is used. Another option is through the quick-charger system which can provide charging in a short time via the quick-charger plug found on the left side of the vehicle. The quick charge cannot be done at home because of the high current requirement to accomplish it.

The iMiEV has an overall size of 3,395 mm in length, 1,475 mm in width and 1,600 mm in height. It has a maximum speed of 130 km/hr while offering a range of 160 km. Its motor is of the permanent magnet synchronous type with maximum power of 47 kw and maximum torque of 180N-m. It uses the rear wheel drive system. Being a zero-emissions vehicle, its use only results to approximately 30% of the CO2 of the gasoline minicar but only because of the emissions of the power plants that generate the power needed to charge it and not resulting from its actual use. The cost of charging is definitely much lower than the cost of oil needed to run a gas-powered car.

The highly efficient motor of the iMiEV provides strong acceleration as high torque is generated from a low speed. The vertical vibration that typically comes with gasoline engines is absent in an iMiEV, making it an extremely quiet vehicle. Its Integrated Vehicle Management System includes the Multi-Entertainment System, the Battery Management System and the High Voltage Circuit Breaker System which helps to safeguard occupants and rescuers against electric shock in times of accidents.

Several energy saving functions have also been incorporated in the vehicle as well as standard specifications such as air-conditioning, power windows and cold region specifications like heated seat and heated door mirrors. Even before rolling out into the market, it is being referred to as the “Earth Vehicle” because of its kindness to the environment. US sales are slated for the year 2011 with a target base price of below US $ 30,000.00.

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