Tokyo - The Japanese car maker Mitsubishi has started supplying select customers with a production version of the i-MiEV electric vehicle with a full sales start scheduled for April next year.
Individual orders for the Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle or i-MiEV can be placed from next month for a price of around 34,000 euros (47,000 dollars).
The minicar is fitted with a 64 hp electric rear engine and powered by a lithium-ion battery unit positioned in the vehicle floor that gives it a range of 160 kilometres. The top speed is listed at a maximum of 130 kilometres an hour.
The average loading time of the battery on a 220 volt socket is about seven hours. A quick-charge option with an 80 per cent charge is possible in 30 minutes.
Three forward gears have been designed to provide optimum energy consumption for different driving conditions. The D-mode provides the maximum amount of energy. The Eco-Mode extends the range by utilising only part of the available energy. The Brake-Mode allows for energy recuperation in start-stop situations with lots of braking. The four-seater car measures 3.4 metres in length, has a weight of 1,100 kilos and has a 2.5 metre wheelbase. Drivers need not do without the comfort of air conditioning, and an entertainment and navigation system with a seven inch monitor that directs the way to the next loading station.
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