Mitsubishi Motors Commences Production of the North American i-MiEV
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) today announced the start of production of the North American* version of its i-MiEV new-generation electric vehicle (EV) at its Mizushima Plant. The North American version of the i-MiEV will first be available in Hawaii as well as the United States’ western coastal states of California, Washington, and Oregon from the end of November this year. From then on, MMC plans to expand sales throughout other parts of the United States and Canada by the end of fiscal year 2012.
The North American version of the i-MiEV has been equipped with safety features such as an advanced airbag system that detects passengers’ seating position and controls deployment force, and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) to conform to North American safety requirements. To better meet the needs of North American customers, its torque has also been increased in comparison to other versions of the i-MiEV. In addition, the North American version of the i-MiEV features new front and rear bumpers for enhanced protection and stability along with a larger body.
MMC began sales of its i-MiEV in Japan in July 2009 as the “ultimate eco-car,” a solution to the various challenges facing society today including environmental pollution, global warming and energy diversification. MMC started full-scale export of the i-MiEV first to European countries in 2010. As of the end of September this year, MMC’s cumulative EV production volume has reached approximately 16,000 units. By adding the United States and Canada, MMC further expands its growing global EV presence.
* United States and Canada.
North American i-MiEV Basic Specifications:
Length : 3,675mm
Width : 1,585mm
Height : 1,615mm
Tread (front/rear) : 1,420mm/1,380mm
Max Torque : 6 Nm/rpm
