| With growing concerns about environmental
pollution, climate change and the depletion of fossil fuels, people have begun
to raise questions about the future of the automobile. Mitsubishi Motors (MMC),
however, believes it has an answer in the form of its new-generation electric
vehicle (EV), the i-MiEV. MMC sees the i-MiEV, the crystallization of some 40
years of MMC’s EV |
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development, as the “ultimate
eco-car”, so it was appropriate that the company unveiled the production
model of this new zero-emissions vehicle on June 5, as countries around the globe
observed World Environment Day.
Sales of the i-MiEV commenced in
Japan in late July and MMC is now looking to promote the vehicle globally. Shipments
to the U.K. and other markets dominated by right-hand drive models are scheduled
to begin later in the current fiscal year. MMC plans to further expand its global
reach in fiscal 2010, with the introduction of a left-hand drive model. Meanwhile,
the company continues to work with partners in the public and private sectors
to pave the way for increased usage of EVs worldwide, such as by promoting the
development of charging stations and other infrastructure. |
Making optimal use of its extended wheelbase,
the i-MiEV is able to carry large, high-capacity lithium-ion batteries
under the floor of the vehicle, thereby achieving a cruising range that is ample
for everyday use. Furthermore, with the power unit neatly contained in the space
under the rear luggage compartment, the i-MiEV offers a surprisingly
roomy interior and plenty of room for luggage. Meanwhile, the MiEV Operating
System masterfully coordinates vehicle operations while analyzing data from all
the major EV components, thereby achieving the high performance that consumers
expect from a new-generation EV.
■ http://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/special/ev/ |
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