2016 Mitsubuishi i-MIEV
The Ultimate Sustainable Eco-Car?
Mitsubishi Motors has positioned the i-MiEV (which is now being referred to as simply the “i”) as their ultimate eco-car that brings to market an expression of the company’s environmental efforts toward a sustainable coexistence with the planet and its natural resources. Development of the i-MiEV concept began in 2006 with internal company discussions as to what would actually constitute the “ultimate eco-car.” After much debate the conclusion reached was that the i-MiEV electric vehicle would satisfy the following requirements: that it produce clean, nonpolluting emissions; that it produce minimal CO2 emissions and aid in the reduction of global warming; and that it make minimal use of the finite supply of oil resources, indeed fulfilling the mission statement.
| 2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric Motor | Power | Torque | Transmission | MSRP | PriceAs-Tested | TFL Rating |
| Synchronous AC Permanent Magnet | 66 hp (49 kW) @ 3,000-6,000 rpm | 145 lb-ft @ 0-300 rpm | 1-speed automatic | $22,995 | $25,845 | Buy it! |
The Mitsubishi is driven 100-percent by electrical power and is a zero-emissions vehicle, which means that drive-time CO2 emissions are zero. The i-MiEV also saves some 158.5 gallons of gasoline a year. As a result, the i personifies Mitsubishi Motors’ Drive@earth corporate tagline, defined as “Driving the earth; living with the earth” ideals. The primary energy system for the i consists of: the electric motor, transmission, on-board charger, DC/DC converter, an inverter, battery modules and drive battery.
Power for the Mitsubishi comes from a high-efficiency, compact and lightweight permanent magnet AC synchronous electric motor that incorporates a rare-earth neodymium magnet and optimized wound rotor design. It is a unique type of motor developed in the mid-1990s, and the magnet is currently one of the strongest in commercial use.
The motor turns at a maximum speed of 9,900 rpm and develops 49 kW (3000 – 6000 rpm) of power. As a basic characteristic of the electric motor it generates very high torque from very low speeds: 145 (196Nm) – (18.4kgf-m)- 0-300 rpm.
This compact and lightweight motor provides better motive performance and is also shorter and narrower as well as lighter than the gasoline-powered “i” minicar’s engine. The transmission is a specially designed single-speed reduction gear type with no reverse, as the motor serves to deliver the reverse function. The motor, transmission and drive battery are all mounted low, in the rear, driving the rear wheels.
There are three external charging modes: normal charging modes in both 100V and 200V applications, and a quick charging connector. Regenerative braking represents yet another application – when the vehicle is decelerating (the equivalent of engine braking), the motor generates deceleration torque and the regenerative function of the brakes is activated. During deceleration the motor acts as a generator with the electrical energy recovered being stored in the drive battery. The i is water-cooled utilizing the radiator from the “i” minicar from which it is derived. The cooling system additionally cools the inverter, on-board charger and DC/DC converter.
In terms of its visual appearance, the i is a 5-door hatchback sub-compact or mini car that employs futuristic design cues in a form not unlike a jellybean. it seats four comfortably with room for personal items behind the rear seat, whereas the Smart For2 only accommodates two occupants. Excellent outward visibility is provided with a large greenhouse and glass area. Overhangs fore and aft are both short.
The interior features all the normal amenities found in a sub-compact vehicle – electric or gasoline. Upholstery is woven cloth with well-formed and padded seats. Gauges and switchgear are well placed for optimum user friendliness, with special gauges and instrumentation providing specific information relative to charge levels, energy storage and current energy level available, as well as approximate range, which is of course subject to driving style and topography.
My test 2016 Mitsubishi i-MIEV sported an Aqua Marine Bluer metallic, with a Black interior. The base sticker was set at $22,995, with the final sticker totaling $25,845. After adding the Navigation Package which includes MMCS NavIgation System with 2 annual Mapcare® updates (replacing the audio head unit), Fuse HandsFree Link System with a USB port, steering wheel audio hands free switches, rearview camera and Destination and Handling Charge before applying the available Federal Tax Credit. Other available city, county and state tax credits will bring the total cost down even more.
The range on a full charge can be up to 100 miles, dependent upon driving factors and conditions, and the use of on-board electronic features. Maximum speed is about 80 mph, which will obviously diminish stored energy at a more rapid rate. Charging time varies through the on-board 15Amp charger: to achieve a full charge at 100V the time is roughly 14 hours; 7 hours are required at 200V; and with the special Quick charger (880V), an 80 percent recharge may be accomplished in approximately 30 minutes.
The 2016 Mitsubishi i-MIEV is great fun to drive. After entry and upon startup, the only indication that you’re ready to roll is a chime signal and ready light in the unique IP. The car is whisper quiet when stationary, and only emits a barely discernible whir when moving. Tire noise on the road surface is actually more noticeable.
The ride quality of the i electric car is quite comfortable despite the low-roliing resistance tires, and the handling characteristics are very responsive and athletic – some might even say sporty.
Is a plug in, all-electric vehicle the way to go for the environment and economy? It actually depends upon the individual and the intended use and requirements. Some people will obviously get a charge out of the i-MiEV (pun intended), while for others who need more range, it won’t necessarily fill the bill for everyday transport. It is certainly ideal for commuters who travel roughly 30 miles or less each way daily, or for longer commutes up to 60 or 70 miles, with access to a charging facility in between.
Bottom line, the 2016 Mitsubishi i-MIEV is positioned to serve a major role in the quest for sustainable energy. It definitely costs much less to operate than a similar gasoline-fueled vehicle, and tax credits are sure to make its purchase even more attractive.
On the TFLcar scale of:
- Buy it!
- Lease it!
- Rent it!
- … or Forget it!
I give the 2016 Mitsubishi i-MIEV a Buy It! For an exceptional high value, diminutive electric sedan.
SPECIFICATIONS: 2016 Mitsubishi-I-MiEV ES:
- Base Price: $22,995
- Price as Tested: $25,845. ($18,345 after $7,500 Federal tax credit; additional state tax discount/credits may be available)
- Engine Type and Size: Y4F1-type 25 kW permanent magnet AC synchronous electric motor
- 330 V High Performance lithium-ion battery. Battery pack rated capacity 16 kWh (330V)
- Horsepower (bhp): 49kW – 66 hp (64PS) – 3,000-6,000 rpm
- Torque (ft./ lbs.): 145 (196Nm) – (18.4kgf-m)- 0-300 rpm
- Maximum speed: 9,900 rpm
- Transmission: Specially designed single-speed reduction gear type with no reverse, as the motor serves as reverse.
- Drive Train: Rear-mounted motor and transmission / Rear-wheel drive.
- Front Suspension: MacPherson strut with custom-tuned springs and 21mm stabilizer bar
- Rear Suspension: 3-link De Dion with custom-tuned springs
- Brakes: Power-assisted regenerative 10.1-inch vented disc front / 8-inch drum leading-trailing rear, 4-sensor, 4-channel ABS with EBD
- Tires: Dunlop Enasave 01A/S – 145/65 R15-front / 175/55 R15-rear mounted on 3-spoke disc aluminum alloy wheels. (No spare – Tire repair kit)
- Wheelbase: 100.4 inches
- Length x Width x Height: 144.7 x 62.4 x 63.6 inches
- Curb Weight: 2,579 lbs.
- EPA Mileage Estimates: 126 – MPGe city / 99 MPGe / 112 MPGe combined
- Drag Coefficient: Not listed
- 0 – 80 km/h: 10.6 seconds
 | Arv Voss is a Northern California based freelance motoring Journalist and member and past officer of several noted Automotive Journalist organizations who contributes regularly to a number of national and international media outlets. He reviews not only cars, trucks and SUVs, but motorcycles as well. |
