New Outlander PHEV Takes On Baja Portalegre 500 Challenge

New Outlander PHEV Takes On Baja Portalegre 500 Challenge

- Developing EV and 4WD technology in X-Country Rallies -

TOKYO, June 18, 2015 – Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) is to enter an Outlander PHEV, the only twin-motor 4WD in production today, in the Baja Portalegre 500 cross-country rally due to be held in the Portalegre municipality in the eastern part of Portugal October 22 through October 24 this year.

The race vehicle will be driven by Mr. Hiroshi Masuoka of MMC who won the Dakar Rally two years in succession in 2002 and 2003. Mr. Masuoka also will be playing a role as the team captain. The team competing in the Baja Portalegre challenge mainly is constructed and led by MMC personnel including the team manager and technical director Mr. Yasuo Tanaka, Expert from EV Component Research Department, Development Engineering Office and engineering supports by four engineers from his department.

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV at the 2013 Asia Cross Country Rally

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV at the 2013 Asia Cross Country Rally

Special Website: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV - 2013 Asia Cross Country Rally

The New Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid EV) to go on Sale in Japan

The New Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid EV) to go on Sale in Japan



TOKYO, December 26, 2012 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announced today that the new Outlander PHEV will go on sale at dealerships throughout Japan from January 24, 2013. Powered by the Plug-in Hybrid EV System powertrain derived from MMC's lineup of electric vehicles (EVs), the Outlander PHEV will have a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of ¥3,324,000 - ¥4,297,000 (including consumption tax). The Outlander PHEV qualifies for Japan's "eco-car" tax incentives*1 and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's "Subsidies for measures designed to promote introduction of clean energy vehicles" (maximum ¥430,000)*2, making the actual cost to the customer as low as ¥2,894,000.
*1: Japanese automobile acquisition tax and motor vehicle tonnage tax exemptions.
*2: For fiscal 2012, intending owners are eligible to receive a maximum subsidy of ¥430,000 on approval of an application submitted to the Next Generation Vehicle Promotion Center. However, this maximum can increase to ¥460,000 for Outlander PHEVs fitted with a quick-charging function (factory option).

World's first is a combination state-of-the-art technologies The world's first plug-in hybrid SUV, the Outlander PHEV represents a fusion of the EV technologies developed by MMC for models such as the i-MiEV, 4WD technologies honed in the Lancer Evolution, and SUV know-how gained from the Pajero (Montero or Shogun in some countries). The result is a groundbreaking new model that brings together the superior environmental performance and quietness of an EV, the stability and handling of a 4WD, and the practicality of an SUV, so that the driver can enjoy the benefits of:
>Environmentally-friendly all-electric operation for everyday use and mainly motor-powered hybrid operation for longer journey
>Outstanding motive performance from its Twin Motor 4WD System
>Unique functionality made possible by the high-capacity battery, including 100V AC power supply capable of delivering up to 1,500W of electricity*3 as an external power source and Battery Charge Mode which allows the battery to be charged by the engine either when stationary or on the move

*3. 100V AC power supply (1,500 W) is available as a factory option.

 

Mitsubishi wins 2nd place in the Electric division on its first try at Pikes Peak

Clarks Metal and Speed is a local Colorado fabrication and body shop that helped rebuild the i-MiEV Evolution after Hiroshi Masuoka crashed on practice. Check out the rebuild gallery: http://clarksmetalandspeed.com/6.html

Mitsubishi Motor Philippines Collaborates with DOE and Meralco on i-MIEV Evaluation

Mitsubishi Motor Philippines Collaborates with DOE and Meralco on i-MIEV Evaluation

Mitsubishi Motors Phils. Corp. (MMPC) is pleased to announce that an Electric Vehicle or EV Cooperation Agreement with the Department of Energy (DOE) and MERALCO is underway which mainly covers the use of Mitsubishi Motors’ zero emission electric car the i-MiEV (i-Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle), for evaluation and demonstration purposes.  MMPC will be the first auto manufacturer to bring in a pure electric car in the country given that its principal Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is in the forefront of EV development.

This collaboration project will entail MMPC to lend demo cars of i-MiEV to both DOE and MERALCO for the purpose of studying EV’s behaviors and performance when utilized in Metro Manila in various conditions, and also examine the impact to power system when EV is charged.  The outcome of the evaluation will enhance the understanding of EV and determine the requirements of supporting charging infrastructure.  It will also be a preparatory step toward the possible future introduction and create greater public awareness of electric vehicles.
The ceremonial turnover was staged at the 2nd Electric Vehicle Summit 2012 wherein MMPC President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Hikosaburo Shibata presented to DOE Secretary Jose Almendras, and MERALCO President Manuel Pangilinan the first i-MiEV unit to be used under this EV Cooperation Agreement.  MMPC was also invited as a resource company in this EV Summit to provide an overview of Mitsubishi Motors EV business being in the forefront of EV development  

Mr. Hikosaburo Shibata said that “This collaboration project is just timely given the various challenges the automobile is facing today which includes environmental pollution, global warming and the rising cost and depletion of petroleum-based energy supplies.”  Shibata added that “We are pleased to be the first auto manufacturer in the Philippines to collaborate with DOE and MERALCO to evaluate the potential role of electric vehicles in the society and also addressing environment issues.”

The EV Summit is part of the continuous effort of the government, non-government organizations and private sectors on the promotion and development of green vehicles such as electric vehicles, in response to the significant environmental and economic demands.

Organizing this summit are the Department of Trade and Industry, Manila Economic and Cultural Office, Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines, Meralco, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities and Partnership for Clean Air. This will be held on May 24 to 25, 2012 at the Meralco Multipurpose Hall.  The theme is “Mobilizing the Region in Electric Vehicle Promotion and Development.

About the i-MIEV

Launched by Mitsubishi Motors in 2009, the i-MiEV as the ultimate eco-car, a solution to the various challenges the automobile faces today including environmental pollution, global warming and the depletion of petroleum-based energy supplies. Aside from being environmentally friendly, the i-MiEV is also very economical since the cost per kilometer to drive the i-MiEV is one third of a comparable gasoline vehicle.  Cost per kilometer can drop of up to one ninth of that of gasoline depending on the cost of electricity.  Charging the i-Miev is very convenient since it can be charged anywhere with electric power source.  There are two ways of charging this car such as using a normal 220-volt outlet and a quick charger.  It takes about 7 hours to charge on a 220 volt and 30 minutes for the quick charger to charge up to 80% of battery capacity once the battery is almost empty.

 With its zero carbon dioxide tailpipe emissions and minimal well-to-wheel generation of carbon dioxide, the i-MiEV makes a valuable contribution to climate protection which also made it to be the recipient of the “Environment Special Grand Prize” at the 25th International Automobile festival in Paris.

To date, the i-MiEV is now selling in many countries and regions all over the world, including Japan, Europe, Hong Kong, Australia, Estonia and in the United States and Canada sales of i-MiEV started last year. In Japan, the i-MiEV has been in the market since July 2009 and it was later launched in Europe by the end of 2010.  Since then Mitsubishi Motors has sold around 4,000 units in Japan and has exported a total of over 10,000 units.   Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is collaborating with other countries like the Principality of Monaco, Iceland, Denmark, Singapore, Thailand and others in their efforts to popularize EVs.

Mitsubishi Motors Previews the New Outlander Plug-in Hybrid EV to Premiere at 2012 Paris Motor Show

Mitsubishi Motors Previews the New Outlander Plug-in Hybrid EV to Premiere at 2012 Paris Motor Show

Mitsubishi Motors will continue to roll out its ambitious, global and green new product generation with a series of significant premieres. Highlight of this offensive will be the world introduction of the all-new Outlander Plug-in Hybrid EV at the forthcoming 2012 Paris Motor Show* (“Mondial de l’Automobile*).

New Frontier
Neither a mere adaptation of an existing Internal Combustion Engine (ICE)  - powered vehicle, nor a dedicated Plug-in Hybrid technology showcase, the New Outlander Plug-in Hybrid EV (or “PHEV”) will share its architecture with the soon-to-be-introduced New Outlander’s ICE versions – an engineering feat in itself.

As such, it will be the first mainstream car from a major manufacturer envisaged from the outset with built-in provisions for either ICE or PHEV powertrains.

Plug-in Hybrid EV
Adding to its credentials, the New Outlander PHEV will further distinguish itself:

Mitsubishi Motors’ first Plug-in Hybrid car, it will be an EV-based vehicle, relying on MMC’s extensive EV and electronic know-how, supplemented by a petrol engine when needed – a solution more suited to global markets than Diesel.

Making the best use of Mitsubishi’s renowned 4-Wheel-Drive expertise, it will also be the first permanent 4WD electric car in series production.

Long haul
The New Outlander PHEV unique drivetrain combination of front electric motor + rear electric motor + front traction/generator petrol engine will translate into a choice of three driving modes:

    Pure (Twin Motor 4WD EV)
    Series (Twin Motor 4WD - EV supported by generator)
    Parallel (ICE engine supported by Twin Motor 4WD).

When fitted to the New Outlander, the Mitsubishi Plug-in Hybrid system will allow for a long haul range and very low emissions similar to that of the Concept PX-MiEV II show car, i.e. a driving distance of over 800 km and a CO2 target below 50 g/km.

Further…
Whilst the New Outlander ICE will start its commercial career in Western & Eastern Europe in the fall of 2012, the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid EV will be retailed in Europe during the course of 2013.

Complementing this New Outlander family, Mitsubishi Motors will stage further premieres at the Paris Motor Show, aimed at a European audience and to be detailed at a later stage…

*Sept. 27th – Oct. 14th (www.mondial-automobile.com)

Mitsubishi Motors' 2012 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Team and All-new All-electric Racecar Announced

Mitsubishi Motors' 2012 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Team and All-new All-electric Racecar Announced
- i-MiEV Evolution to tackle Pikes Peak -


Tokyo , May 18, 2012 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC), will enter two all-electric vehicles (EVs) in the Electric Class of the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb*1. MMC will be aiming for victory in the Electric Class with the i-MiEV Evolution, a specially-prepared competition version based on the i all-electric vehicle*2. MMC is also entering a regular production i in the event.

*1:Held annually in Colorado in the United States. 2012 edition to be held July 3 - 8.
*2:i-MiEV in other countries.

Enter the i-MiEV Evolution
The i-MiEV Evolution uses the same motor, drive battery and other major components as the production i and has been developed in cooperation with several partner companies including Meidensha Corporation and GS Yuasa Corporation. The i-MiEV Evolution has been developed to showcase MMC's advanced EV control and EV component technologies. MMC will use the technical knowhow garnered through the i-MiEV Evolution's development and usage for the development of future EV models with superior durability and reliability.

All-pro Team
Driving the i-MiEV Evolution in the Pikes Peak event and also serving as team manager will be Mr. Hiroshi Masuoka-the first Japanese driver to post consecutive overall victories in the Dakar Rally. The Mitsubishi i will be piloted by Ms. Beccy Gordon, a winner in the Score International Off-Road Racing Series.

i-MiEV Evolution

Mitsubishi i

1. Mitsubishi Motors 2012 Pikes Peak Challenge Team

2. Outline Description of Cars Entered for Pikes Peak

(1) i-MiEV Evolution
Developed for the Pikes Peak event, the i-MiEV Evolution basically uses the same motor, drive battery and other major components as the production i-MiEV fitted to a specially-designed racing-specific body which uses a tube-frame chassis and a carbon fiber cowl among other features designed to reduce weight and improve aerodynamic performance. Comprising a single motor driving the front and two motors driving the rear wheels, the car's four-wheel-drive system provides superior motive performance and handling.

(2) Mitsubishi i
For the Pikes Peak event the production Mitsubishi i has been modified using a more aerodynamic front bumper and fitted with roll bars and other safety equipment.

The Mitsubishi i went on sale on the west coast of the United States (in the states of California, Washington and Oregon) and in Hawaii in November 2011 with plans to expand sales to the whole of the country by June 2012. The i also went on sale in Canada as the i-MiEV in December 2011, marking its full-scale launch targeting corporate and individual customers in the North American market.

3. Driver Profiles

(1) Hiroshi Masuoka (Product Strategy Office, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation)

Hiroshi Masuoka began his Dakar Rally campaign in 1987 and became the first Japanese driver to post consecutive overall victories in the event when he won in 2002 and 2003.

Currently Masuoka works at Mitsubishi Motors where his many duties include vehicle development, the training of company test drivers and the running of test drive sessions and other events both in Japan and overseas.

Masuoka had the following to say before the event: "Given the tough driving conditions that Pikes Peak is known for, I'm really keen to show people the world over that electric vehicles are capable of gutsy motive performance and excellent handling in addition to their superior environmental performance."
  

(2) Beccy Gordon

Beccy Gordon is an American off-road racer. She grew up in a family in which her father, brother and sister have all been successful racing drivers, as is her husband today. Gordon herself is an experienced driver having raced in a wide spectrum of motor sports and she is also a motorsport spokesperson.

Gordon commented before the event: "I'm really happy to be able to drive the Mitsubishi i in the Pikes Peak race and am looking forward to giving it my best in an electric car, the type of vehicle that is set to become a major player in motor sports in future."
  
4. Partner Companies (20 in all, listed in alphabetical order)

    Advics Co., Ltd.
    Akebono Brake Industry Co., Ltd.
    Dunlop Goodyear Tires Ltd.
    Endless Advance Co., Ltd.
    Enkei Corporation
    GKN Driveline Japan Ltd.
    GS Yuasa Corporation
    Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    HKS Co., Ltd.
    Meidensha Corporation
    Mikuni Corp.
    Mitsubishi Corporation
    Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Mitsubishi Motor Dealers Association
    NHK Spring Co., Ltd.
    Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha
    NTN Corporation
    Showa Corporation
    Toray Industries, Inc.
    Tsuchiya Co., Ltd.

Off-Road Racer Beccy Gordon to Pilot 2012 Mitsubishi i in this year's Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) today announced that professional SCORE International off-road series race-winning driver Beccy Gordon will pilot the 100% electric-powered 2012 Mitsubishi i race car in this year's annual running of the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) on July 8.

Beccy Gordon comes from a family with a rich history in auto racing – brother Robby had a distinguished career in Indy, NASCAR and off-road racing; sister Robyn is the first woman to score an overall win in the Baja 1000; father Bob was a longtime combatant in off-road racing; and great-grandfather Huntley was an Indy car driver in the early 1900s. Beccy's husband, Ryan Hunter-Reay, is currently a driver for Andretti Autosport in the IZOD IndyCar Series.

"I'm really looking forward to driving the Mitsubishi i in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb competition this year," said Beccy. "I am very excited to be part of this challenge and also to drive a 100% electric-powered car since this type of vehicle will likely play a major role in both our daily transportation and motorsports in the future." 

Mitsubishi Motors will be entering a pair of 2012 Mitsubishi i racing cars in this year's Pikes Peak International Hill Climb event: an essentially stock version of the electric-powered 2012 Mitsubishi i (to be driven by Beccy Gordon) along with an advanced race-spec version of the electric vehicle (EV), the Mitsubishi i-MiEV Prototype (to be driven by two-time Paris-Dakar Rally champion, Hiroshi Masuoka).

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV Prototype race car features an enhanced Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle (MiEV) electric motor, lithium-ion battery pack and braking system. Engineers and researchers from Mitsubishi Motors and numerous EV component and systems suppliers will be on hand to record and analyze data from both cars entered in the 2012 Pikes Peak event, using the challenging race as an important R-D exercise to further the advancement of the current Mitsubishi i production vehicle as well as for future EVs, Hybrids and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) models.

Mitsubishi Motors to Launch MiEV Power BOX 1500 Watt Power Feeder for its Electric Vehicles

Mitsubishi Motors to Launch MiEV Power BOX 1500 Watt Power Feeder for its Electric Vehicles

Tokyo, March 9, 2012 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announced today that it will bring to market on April 27 the new MiEV power BOX power feeder which is capable of supplying large amounts of electrical power from an electric vehicle (EV). Supplied by a Mitsubishi Group affiliate, the MiEV power BOX will be offered as a dealer option for the company's i-MiEV *1 and MINICAB-MiEV EVs and will carry a manufacturer's recommended tax-inclusive price of \149,800.
*1: Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle

The MiEV power BOX is an adapter that plugs into the i-MiEV or MINICAB-MiEV's quick charging connector and is capable of supplying up to 1500 watts of AC electricity from the power stored in the vehicle's drive battery. It has been designed mainly to power household electrical appliances either when away from home or in an emergency. When connected to a fully-charged 16.0 kWh battery-equipped model the MiEV power BOX can supply 1500 watts of power for between five and six hours, equivalent to the amount consumed by an average Japanese household in a single day.

Much attention is currently being focused on the storage capabilities of high capacity EV batteries as a power source for use in major disasters and other emergencies. This comes at a time when solar power, wind power, and other recyclable energy sources are being promoted and the near-future implementation of "smart grids" which will allow the more effective use of electrical power. More and more people are looking to the EV both in terms of its traditional role of addressing environmental issues and also as a means of addressing ever-growing pressures on the demand and supply of energy. To meet these expectations MMC is pushing forward research and development into related technologies, one of which is the MiEV power BOX.

3rd Gen Mitsubishi Outlander and Mitsubishi PHEV Tech [Video]

Mitsubishi Motors to Enter i-MiEV Prototype in 2012 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

Mitsubishi Motors to Enter i-MiEV Prototype in 2012 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

Tokyo , March 1, 2012 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will enter the i-MiEV Prototype in the 2012 edition (July 8) of the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb held annually in Colorado in the United States. The i-MiEV Prototype is a prototype based on MMC's all-electric i-MiEV model, the first 100% electric vehicle (EV) to go into mass production and is already on the road in Japan, Europe and North America, with plans to expand to other markets.

The i-MiEV Prototype is to be driven by Hiroshi Masuoka, in many parts of the world known as a legendary race driver whom during the course of decades of racing success took on the brutal Dakar Rally 21 times, winning it consecutively in 2002 and 2003, driving Mitsubishi Pajero and Pajero Evolution models respectively.

The i-MiEV Prototype will use the same EV components as the current production i-MiEV. MMC will use the data obtained through its participation in the event to enhance the durability and reliability of pure EVs and plug-in hybrid EVs which it will be bringing to market in the near future.

Hiroshi Masuoka

In addition to MMC's participation in the race, engineers from MMC's development division as well as from its partner manufacturers of batteries, motors and other EV components will be sent to the event to collaborate closer on the sharing of technology and knowhow for the purpose of further boosting MMC's EV development capabilities.

*     The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is an annual automobile and motorcycle hill climb to the 4,300 meter summit of Pikes Peak in Colorado with entrants covering an elevation difference of almost 1,500 meters. First run in 1916 the hill climb is one of the oldest motor sport races in America. Atmospheric pressure, temperature, weather and other conditions vary significantly between the start and finish and this requires optimum tuning to ensure the vehicles produce their maximum performance all the way up.

2012 Mitsubishi i (i-MiEV) Named #1 on American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) Annual “Greenest Vehicles” List [US]

2012 Mitsubishi i Named #1 on American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) Annual “Greenest Vehicles” List

Cypress, California, February 8, 2012 – Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA), and the 2012 Mitsubishi i – the Japanese auto manufacturer’s affordably-priced all-new 100% electric-powered vehicle (EV)  ̶  have taken the top spot on the coveted American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) 14th annual “Greenest Vehicles” list, a comprehensive environmental ranking for production vehicles.

2012 Mitsubishi i (i-MiEV)

The 2012 Mitsubishi i scored a 58 in the ACEEE’s ranking system – the highest Green Score ever achieved since the ACEEE “Greenest Vehicles” rankings began in 1998.

“Even taking into account the emissions generated from the electricity used to power the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, it still handily outscores other vehicles on the market today,” said ACEEE Lead Vehicle Analyst, Shruti Vaidyanathan.

According to the ACEEE, the cars that make up their “Greenest Vehicles” list are evaluated on a variety of criteria including tailpipe emissions, fuel consumption, and gas emissions that “contribute to climate change.” Additionally, starting with this year’s awards, the ACEEE made a number of changes to its vehicle evaluation methodology to more accurately estimate vehicles’ environmental impacts including improving emissions estimates in the vehicle manufacturing process as well as in the extraction of natural gas. 

“Earning a spot on the ‘Greenest’ list is proving to be a real challenge for automakers given the variety of technologies on the market and the proliferation of highly efficient conventional vehicles,” said Vaidyanathan. “Just using the latest technology does not guarantee a top spot.”

The “Greenest Vehicles” and “Greener Choices” lists appear in the ACEEE’s Green Book® Online. The Green Book® Online, according to the ACEEE, is an “annual ranking that highlights the environmental friendliness of vehicles in the United States.” Only the twelve highest-ranked vehicles by the ACEEE make it onto the organization’s “Greenest Vehicles” list.

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander to be revealed at 2012 Geneva Auto Show

2012 GENEVA MOTOR SHOW A NEW LOOK…

For the first time, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has decided to select the most demanding European market as global launch pad for an all-new vehicle. Next March, the Geneva Motor Show will see the world premiere of a strategic and innovative premium vehicle, to be retailed sequentially during 2012 – a car of substance that will reflect a gradual transformation in Mitsubishi’s design language.

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander

Next generation
This unveiling will confirm the start of an all-new generation of global products for Mitsubishi Motors, consistent with the ambitions set in MMC’s “Jump 2013” business plan for a greener and more global Mitsubishi. Fittingly, this complete family of cars / crossovers / SUVs will see a gradual transition to a re-focused design language.

A tradition of engineering
This re-focused design language, while still being formulated, is envisaged as an open design concept, meant to be flexible enough to suit specific vehicle requirements whilst staging Mitsubishi’s famous Three Diamond logo accordingly.  Refined yet assertive, this new engineering-driven look can be understood as the new expression of Mitsubishi’s near century old tradition of technology tailored for today’s world – the one that recently brought i-MiEV, the 4N1 Clean Diesel engine, Green Plastics and the same one that will bring innovative proprietary PHEV technologies next year, based on MMC’s state-of-the-art electric vehicle know-how that led to i-MiEV, prior to other future significant breakthroughs…

Mitsubishi Motors Delivers Norway's 1,000th i-MiEV

Mitsubishi Motors Delivers Norway's 1,000th i-MiEV

Tokyo, December 6, 2011 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announced the delivery of Norway's 1,000th i-MiEV new-generation electric vehicle. The ceremony to celebrate the delivery of the 1,000th i-MiEV was held in Oslo on December 5 (local time) with participation of Mr. Erik Solheim, Norway's Minister of Environment and Development.

Left: Mr. Erik Solheim, Minister of Environment and Development
Center: Mr. Torkel Aamodt Thorsen, purchaser of the 1,000th i-MiEV
Right: Mr. Ryuichi Hasuo, Corporate General Manager, MMC

In Norway, electric car purchasers can receive substantial incentives while installation of charging infrastructure is spreading fast. Since its launch in Norway in January 2011, the i-MiEV has maintained the top spot in total sales volume of compact (A-segment) vehicles, including gasoline vehicles, proof that the i-MiEV is a very much a practical vehicle that can serve the demands of Norwegian consumers.

Nine Japanese Companies to Establish EV Quick-Charging Infrastructure Promotion Organization

Nine Japanese Companies to Establish EV Quick-Charging Infrastructure Promotion Organization

ULVAC, Inc., Kanematsu Corporation, Kandenko Co., Ltd., Suzuyo Shoji Co., Ltd., Chubu Electric Power Co., Inc., Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), the Development Bank of Japan Inc., Honda Motor Co., Ltd., and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation today agreed to establish an organization to provide membership-based quick-charging services for users of electric vehicles (EVs). The organization, named the Charging Network Development Organization, LLC, aims to encourage increased and widespread use of EVs by helping to expand the scope of charging infrastructure.

As of the end of October, approximately 800 quick chargers have been installed in Japan, a number still viewed as insufficient from a users' standpoint. Until now, quick chargers have generally been installed, at the owner's expense, by businesses and private organizations for private use or as part of a government program. The lack of an effective method to recover costs has become a significant obstacle to widespread installation.

Under the new membership service, quick-charger owners can register their chargers with the organization in a central database. The organization will then make charger information, such as number and location, available to EV users registered as members, thus facilitating convenient and efficient charging. Membership fees will pay a portion of the installation and maintenance costs incurred by quick-charger owners, helping to promote the development of quick-charger infrastructure. The organization plans to start such services in fiscal year 2012.

The concept for the service is the result of investigations conducted by a working group formed at the request from the CHAdeMO Association* to all its members in July 2010. In March 2011, the CHAdeMO Association announced that it would support the commercial development of the service to promote the spread of quick-charging infrastructure.

The organization will seek the cooperation of a broad range of local governments and businesses for the service while working to increase interest in quick-charger installation, thereby establishing a charging infrastructure sufficient to encourage the greater use of EVs and to increase user convenience.

Mitsubishi to Launch New MINICAB-MiEV Commercial Electric Vehicle in Japan

Mitsubishi Motors to Launch New MINICAB-MiEV Commercial Electric Vehicle in Japan
- Prices start from ¥1,730,000 after application of eco-car subsidy -

MINICAB-MiEV CD (10.5kWh)

Tokyo, November 24, 2011 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announced that it will launch the new MINICAB-MiEV*1 minicar-class commercial electric vehicle (EV)-the second product in its next-generation EV lineup-on December 8, 2011 at dealerships throughout Japan. Depending on specification the new model will carry a pre-incentive manufacturer's recommended retail price (MSRP) of between \2,400,000 and \2,971,000, consumption tax included.

Derived from the MINICAB Van minicar-class commercial vehicle, the MINICAB-MiEV has been developed maximizing the technologies and knowhow gained from the development of the i-MiEV in delivering the superior environmental performance inherent to an EV, together with the high levels of operating economy, payload capacity, drivability and reliability demanded of a commercial vehicle.

The MINICAB-MiEV will come with a choice of two sizes of drive battery to allow the customer to choose the cruising range best suited to his or her needs. The CD 10.5 kWh battery version provides a cruising range of 100 km (at JC08 mode) on a single charge, while the CD 16.0 kWh version takes this up to 150 km. MMC has set prices at an accessible level: with the application of the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's eco-car subsidy, the final cost to the consumer for the CD 10.6 kWh and CD 16.0 kWh battery versions will be reduced to \1,730,000 and \2,020,000 respectively. As with the i-MiEV, the MINICAB-MiEV will be sold on a maintenance lease, credit or cash basis.

When MMC started sales of the i-MiEV new-generation EV in the Japanese market in July 2009 it was the first auto manufacturer to offer a truly "ultimate eco-car" that fully addresses issues facing our society today including environmental pollution, global warming and exhaustion of petroleum-based energy supplies. Since then MMC has sold some 5,000 units in Japan and has shipped a total of about 17,000 units (as of October 31, 2011), including units supplied to PSA Peugeot Citroën. As a leading manufacturer of EVs, MMC is confident that as it expands its lineup of EV models it will serve as pioneers on the path toward quickly making possible a low-carbon society.

Mitsubishi Motors In Talks with Suzuki towards OEM Supply of a Minicar-class Light Commercial Electric Vehicle

Mitsubishi Motors In Talks with Suzuki towards OEM Supply of a Minicar-class Light Commercial Electric Vehicle

Tokyo, November 22, 2011 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announced it is in talks with Suzuki Motor Corporation (Suzuki) towards OEM supply of a minicar-class light commercial electric vehicle (based on the MINICAB-MiEV).

MMC and Suzuki are currently working on details; however plans are for initial supply to Suzuki to begin in February 2012, building up to full-scale supply in the 2012 fiscal year.

The talks towards an agreement are intended to increase economies of scale for MMC which will in turn contribute to lower production costs and increased productivity.

2012 Mitsubishi i Ranked #1 Fuel Economy Leader in the EPA's Annual Fuel Economy Guide

 CYPRESS, Calif., Nov. 17, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA), is proud to announce that the company's innovative and fun-to-drive 2012 Mitsubishi i electric vehicle has scored first-place honors on the EPA's list of "Fuel Economy Leaders: 2012 Model Year" in the governmental agency's annual Fuel Economy Guide thanks to its astonishing EPA-rated 112 combined/126 city/99 highway MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent).

According to the EPA's website, the Fuel Economy Guide is "an annual publication containing the fuel economy estimates for all cars and light trucks. The guide includes much more information that appears on the window sticker alone. It includes information about alternative fueled vehicles, the range of fuel economy for different classes of vehicles, a list of fuel economy leaders, and tips for improving fuel economy."

The annual Fuel Economy Guide is published jointly by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE).

"We are very pleased to see that the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy have rated the 2012 Mitsubishi i as the top fuel economy leader in its annual Fuel Economy Guide," said Yoichi Yokozawa, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA). “With 17,000 i-MiEV-based units* produced for various international markets, we look forward to providing North American consumers with an exceptionally well-engineered electric vehicle that has proven itself to be reliable, safe, efficient and very affordable in overall price and cost of operation.”  

* As of October 2011. Figure includes units produced for PSA Peugeot Citroen.

Citroen C-ZERO

Peugeot iON

New Mitsubishi Graphics Program for the i-MiEV, details on 2012 Lancer SE at 2011 LA Auto Show

Mitsubishi Motors Details New Mitsubishi Graphics Program, All-Wheel Drive Lancer SE AWC, Consumer Test Drives of Mitsubishi i EV at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show

Los Angeles, California, November 16, 2011 – Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA), is set to detail exciting new product offerings and events at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show including a new customized graphics program available for the 2012 Mitsubishi i electric vehicle and the 2012 Lancer, an affordably-priced and well-equipped all-wheel drive version of the company’s popular Lancer compact sports sedan, and the opportunity for consumers to jump behind the wheel for a test drive of the all-new 100% electric-powered 2012 Mitsubishi i.

Hot Mitsubishi Graphics for Mitsubishi i Electric Vehicle and Lancer Models
As if the distinctively-shaped 2012 Mitsubishi i electric vehicle and the head-turning Lancer sport sedan weren’t stylish enough, owners of these vehicles will now be able to add their own personalized style to each of these remarkable vehicles, thanks to the new Mitsubishi Graphics program.

Available for the all-new Mitsubishi i in December and the Lancer by the end of 2011, customers can simply log onto Mitsubishicars.com and/or MitsubishiGraphics.com beginning in early December, select their graphic(s), print out the order and take it to their local Mitsubishi dealer to purchase their stylish new graphics package for their eco-friendly Mitsubishi i or sporty Lancer model. The Mitsubishi dealer will then place the order for the graphics package, inform the customer when the artwork for their vehicle arrives and coordinate with the customer for its installation by a professional 3M™ Original Wraps installer.

Crafted from premium high-quality 3M™ Scotchprint® on-demand vinyl graphic film and a clear laminate for additional protection, the new Mitsubishi Graphics are composed of the same material used for premium full-wrap vehicle graphics. Mitsubishi Graphics can be purchased at Mitsubishi dealerships and come with a 3-year/36,000 mile warranty from 3M™.
For more information on the Mitsubishi Graphics program, including product pricing, availability, selection and care, please call 1-877-236-4428 or log on to MitsubishiGraphics.com.

WiTricity, IHI Corp, and MMC to collaborate on developing easily deployable wireless charging system for Electric Vehicles

WiTricity Corporation, IHI Corporation, and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Combine to Develop Easily Deployable Wireless Charging Systems for Electric Vehicles

- Partnership to take the first step toward making plugging in obsolete -

Tokyo - September 27, 2011 - WiTricity Corporation (WiTricity), IHI Corporation (IHI) and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) have agreed to join forces to research and develop easily deployable electric vehicle (EV) wireless charging systems readily compatible with electric grids which will make life easier for EV users in the future. The partnership structure of three major players in the wireless charging, electric infrastructure, and EV areas coming together will accelerate the popularization of wireless charging systems for EVs by developing systems that are usable "right out of the box" for individuals, governments, and other entities including power companies in order to make it easier and quicker for them to roll out such systems.

Image showing how wireless charging systems might be used in the future

The aim of the collaboration is to make EVs remarkably more convenient for owners by accelerating the popularization (and thus availability) of wireless charging at homes and shopping center parking lots, etc.

Wireless charging systems allow transfer of energy from a source placed on or under the ground, to a vehicle equipped with an energy capture device. Charging occurs automatically when the vehicle is parked, with no physical contact between the vehicle and the charging source. WiTricity has already developed and brought to market its patented magnetic resonance wireless charging system*1. The system that WiTricity has developed can transfer energy further and more efficiently in comparison to conventional systems such as electromagnetic induction and microwave transmission, pushing the possibilities of wireless charging by being able to deliver up to 3.3 kW of charging power over distance of 20cm (almost 8 inches) at an efficiency rate of more than 90%, in manner that is safe and very user friendly. Systems based on WiTricity technology offer smaller size and lighter weight as compared to conventional systems, and operate with no moving parts.