Overview
Mitsubishi i is the Japanese carmaker's cent percent electric-powered vehicle which costs several thousand less than other electric vehicles available in the market today.
One of the most affordable and cleanest cars, the 2012 Mitsubishi i is an all-new model for the 2012 model year and is powered by the ace Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle (MiEV) technology. This model was unveiled at the 2011 New York Auto Show. It is Mitsubishi's first ever electric car available in two well equipped models - i and i SE.
Powertrain and Performance
The rear-wheel driven i's drive system comprises of a 49 kW (66 bhp) AC synchronous motor; an 88 cell, 330V lithium-ion battery pack for a peak storage of 16 kWh; and a single fixed reduction gear transmission. This electric motor churns out a peak torque of 145 lb. ft. almost instantaneously when accelerating from a standstill and its top speed of approximately 80 mph. The shift selector allows the drivers to select different drive settings for fun and efficiency.
Build and Styling
The attractively priced compact 2012 Mitsubishi i, a 100 per cent electric car, comes with speed-sensitive electric steering, a heated driver seat, LED taillights, electric air conditioning with a cabin micron filter, keyless entry, an MP3 stereo system and a portable 8 amp/120 volt charging system.
The i SE model features 15-inch alloy wheels, a 360-watt, 8 speaker deluxe audio system, leather wrap steering wheel and shift knob, upgrade seating material and a two-tone instrument panel (brown/black). A Cold Zone package that includes Li-Ion Battery Warming system, heated outer side mirrors and a Premium package comprising HDD navigation system with rearview camera monitor, FUSE Hands-free Link with USB port and steering wheel-mounted audio controls, DC port for quick charger, Li-Ion Battery Warming system and heated outer side mirrors are optional.
Safety Features
The standard safety features of the all-new 2012 Mitsubishi i include anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA); brake override system; Active Stability Control (ASC) and Traction Control Logic (TCL) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). An advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS), side air bags and side curtain air bags have also been installed. The specialized EV-related safety items include a high-voltage cut-off system and an Approaching Vehicle Audible System (AVAS) help alert pedestrians to the approaching vehicle.