Mitsubishi i EV Priced from $20,490 in the U.S., Close to $5,000 Less than Nissan’s Leaf

The main reason for which Mitsubishi will drop the Eclipse, Endeavor and Galant models from its U.S. range is to focus on developing zero-emissions vehicles like the Mitsubishi i (also known as the i-MiEV in Europe). The Japanese carmaker announced at the New York Auto Show that the plug-in EV will arrive in U.S. showrooms in November 2011, with prices starting from $20,490 (€14,100) for the standard ES model and $22,490 for the better-equipped ES version, government subsidies included.

Benefiting from up to $7,500 (€5,160) in federal tax credit, the Mitsubishi i is the most affordable 100% electric-powered mass-market production vehicle available in North America. At $20,490, the i is almost $5,000 cheaper than the Nissan Leaf ($25,280), although the latter is a compact model, while the Mitsubishi i is a sub-compact.

Powered by Mitsubishi’s MiEV technology, the rear-wheel drive i features a 66 horsepower synchronous electric motor, a 330V lithium-ion battery pack that can store up to 16 kWh and a single fixed reduction gear transmission. The electric motor produces a peak torque of 145 lb-ft (196 Nm) and allows for a top speed of 80 mph (129 km/h).

The car has a driving range of 85 miles (137 km) on a complete charge. Full charging takes 6 hours on a 240V/15A Level 2 home EVSE Eaton charging system and 22.5 hours on a conventional outlet. However, the batteries can be charged up to 80 percent of their capacity in 30 minutes at a public quick-charging station. The batteries have an 8-year/100,000 mile warranty.

Standard equipment includes an electric air condition system and cabin heater, power windows and mirrors, 4-speaker 100-watt audio system and the MiEV remote system that allows the battery to be charged via timer and the pre-activation of the air conditioning or heater.

The Mitsubishi i will arrive in U.S. showrooms by November 2011 in California, Oregon, Washington and Hawaii. Northeastern U.S. market launch will take place in March 2012, with nationwide availability expected by December 2012.

By Dan Mihalascu

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