 i-MiEV: An Electric Alternative.On the road and on it's way.Starting this July, when it comes to market in Japan, Mitsubishi's Innovative Electric Vehicle (i-MiEV) is going to effectively change the very nature of transportation. And Mitsubishi couldn't be more excited to be leading the way. Ending months of intense speculation, Mitsubishi Motors North America President and CEO Shinichi Kurihara announced at this year's New York Auto Show that not only is i-MiEV being developed for sale in world markets, it is also coming to the United States. (Timing to be determined) Mr. Kurihara went on to say, "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." He later added, "We believe the i-MiEV delivers on the promise of sustainability, suitable range, performance, and innovative packaging and styling." i-MiEV made headlines as it was named one of the three finalists in the prestigious World Green Car competition. Selected by a panel of 59 automotive journalists from an initial pool of 20 contenders, Mitsubishi Motors' pure electric, four-passenger vehicle was recognized for its advancement of power plant technology aimed specifically at increasing its environmental responsibility. With its intelligent combination of great range, zero on-road CO2 emissions, with reduced physical and carbon footprints, i-MiEV will be the world's first practical lithium-ion battery powered electric vehicle offered by a major automobile manufacturer when fleet sales begin this July in Japan. Mitsubishi will be the company to make the dream of an all-electric vehicle come true. Partnerships for the future of i-MiEV.At the New York Auto Show, Mitsubishi Motors North America President and CEO Shinichi Kurihara was pleased to announce a key strategic partnership with the State of Oregon and Portland General Electric (PGE). As evidence of their commitment to electric vehicle technology, PGE is installing a network of charging stations—a dozen of which are already up and running—in their service territory. Placing i-MiEV prototypes in this especially electric-car friendly environment will set a great example for communities across the country about the tremendous promise of all-electric vehicles in the near future. Though details of the programs are still being finalized, the findings from these real-world applications will have far-reaching effects on bringing the i-MiEV to market in the United States. Mr. Kurihara went on to say "The State of Oregon and Portland General Electric will become valuable partners in helping validate the future of all electric vehicles. Governor Ted Kulongoski is a progressive thinker who is providing a roadmap of the future." A global ambassador for Mitsubishi's environmental responsibility initiative, i-MiEV is a small car making a big impact. The four-door, four-passenger, fully-electric I-MiEV runs on a lithium-ion battery, which gets up to 80 miles on one charge with a top speed of 80mph. Not only does i-MiEV have impressive range, but it's also economical—it costs a third less to drive than equivalent gas powered vehicles. With i-MiEV on the way, the future of commuting is looking greener. |