2008 Mitsubishi i MIEV Sport Concept

Mitsubishi i MiEV SPORT

Characteristics
Based on the i MiEV, the i MiEV SPORT enhances the 'driving' image of Mitsubishi's electric vehicles. The car features Mitsubishi Motors' unique in-wheel motors in the front plus S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) -- the company's vehicle dynamics control system -- to achieve high maneuverability as well as high levels of both environmental and running performance. The car brings a new closeness between people and cars; allowing them to become more a part of daily life.
Design
The 'fastback' exterior design expresses the quickness of the car with an appearance that is pleasing and lively. An efficient, environmentally friendly electric vehicle thanks to its compact size, it also possesses exceptionally fluid styling. A simplified interior styling creates a pleasant space, allowing occupants to feel at home. Geometry, metallic materials and body epitomize the futuristic electric vehicle. Interior lighting, too, has been carefully thought out, with the use of many blue LEDs suggestive of nature, creating a sophisticated, cutting-edge atmosphere.

Packaging
Like the i MiEV, i MiEV Sport uses a rear-midship design in its layout. Making use of the relatively long wheelbase of this platform, a high-capacity lithium-ion battery is installed in the lowest area under the floor, and components including a motor and inverter are arranged beneath the luggage compartment. This layout provides optimal distribution of weight, front and rear, and a lower center of gravity for stability, sporty performance, and a spacious interior.

Body Structure
An aluminum space frame -- a combination of aluminum extrusions and aluminum die casting -- is light, rigid and strong; helping to improving performance by minimizing weight.
The optimum layout of structural members, including front-side and cross members, efficiently absorbs crash energy in the event of front-end or side collision. In a collision from the rear, EV components under the back seat and rear floor serve as a barrier to ensure the integrity of the passenger compartment. By making use of the rear-midship layout and utilizing Mitsubishi's latest RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body, the concept realizes excellent occupant protection in collisions from any direction, even when colliding with a vehicle of different height or weight.



Energy Saving Technology/Environmental Technology
Energy-saving environmental considerations are seen throughout the i MiEV SPORT. Effective use of energy is achieved by installing an auxiliary photovoltaic generator on the roof, a power-generating fan inside the front grill, and regenerative braking functions to recover energy when the car is slowing down. Much of the lighting is by bright, power-saving LEDs, including in the rear combination lamps and vehicle interior, and the efficiency of the air conditioning is enhanced by the use of heat-absorbing window glass. In addition, Green Plastic -- Mitsubishi Motors' unique plant-based resin technology -- is used wherever possible for interior components in another nod to the environment.

Source - Mitsubishi

NAIAS Media Will Get a Charge Driving Mitsubishi's i MiEV Inside Cobo Center

Mitsubishi Motors Research and Development (MRDA) will drive its all-electric, four-passenger i MiEV into the North American International Auto Show for media test drives, Sunday, January 11 through Tuesday, January 13.

The Mitsubishi i MiEV is part of the auto show's all-new indoor EcoXperience track that will demonstrate eco-friendly transportation technology from participating manufacturers. Credentialed press will have the opportunity to safely drive the i MiEV on a closed course in the heated comfort of Cobo Center's Michigan Hall.

Source - Mitsubishi