Mitsubishi’s i-MiEV Electric Vehicle Now Available For Public Sale

June 14, 2011 - PRLog -- MMAL’s CEO and president, Genichiro Nishina, announced the public launch of the i-MiEV at a press conference in Melbourne yesterday.

“This is the first time in Australia’s history that environmentally aware citizens will be able to purchase their very own zero drive-time emission, mass produced fully electric vehicle – the i-MiEV.

“And to ensure the i-MiEV gets off to a great start, we have released the model year 12 version, which includes upgraded safety and comfort specifications, at a lower price, which is expected to be around $50,000,” Mr Nishina said.

The i-MiEV, which stands for Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle, first arrived in Australia in July last year, when 110 were leased to local, state and federal governments and selected innovative organisations. The large number of public enquiries received regarding the launch of the i-MiEV prompted the company to release details of the model ahead of its Australian arrival.

Sales of the i-MiEV to individuals will begin from mid-August when the first shipment of MY 12 i-MiEVs arrive in Australia. The projected recommended retail price of around $50,000 gives Australian consumers the opportunity to own the latest EV technology while reducing their carbon footprint at a more affordable price.

The MY12 i-MiEV includes additional features over the previous model, boosting the vehicle’s occupant safety and comfort levels.

Safety has been enhanced with the addition of side and curtain airbags, taking the total number of airbags in the vehicle to six. The addition of Electronic Stability Control to the previous model’s Active Stability and Traction Control and braking system helps the i-MiEV maintain traction on slippery or rugged surfaces and ensures stability and prevents loss of control when cornering. An In-Cable Charging Circuit Interrupt Device has been added to the vehicle’s electric management system and provides an extra safety precaution when recharging.

Finally, the vehicle is secured by the MiEV OS (MiEV Operating System), an advanced integrated vehicle management system that will instantly shut down all high voltage electric system should an impact occur.

The European-styled upgrades to the MY12 i-MiEV’s exterior include a larger rear bumper which adds a stylish finish and complements the vehicle’s smooth lines. Side and rear privacy glass provides greater occupant comfort and the heated driver’s seat is the ultimate luxury. Auto Lighting control and Multimode Keyless entry complete the upgrades to the 2012 model and enhance the overall i-MiEV experience.

Mr Nishina said the sale of i-MiEV to individuals will be the catalyst that begins to change the shape of the Australian motoring landscape.

“Considering that about 95 per cent of commuters in urban Australia travel less than 100 kilometres per day, the i-MiEV is an excellent real-world solution to help reduce the population’s environmental impact,” Mr Nishina said.

“Mitsubishi believes the future of electric vehicles is bright and we are proud to offer Australians the opportunity to purchase their own EV and make the choice towards a greener future.”

The i-MiEV is available in six stylish colours; White, Black, Cool Silver, Ocean Blue, Raspberry Red and Titanium Grey.

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV will be available from selected Mitsubishi dealers in all capital cities from mid-August. In the interim period, all customer enquiries regarding the availability of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV should be directed to 1300 13 12 11.

Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited recommends that the i-MiEV electric vehicle always be charged using renewable or “green” energy.


For further information contact:
Lenore Fletcher
Head of Corporate Communications
Phone: 08 8275 2348
Mobile: 0408 320 797
lfletcher@mmal.com.au

Caitlin Beale
Corporate Communications Manager
Phone: 08 8275 7250
Mobile: 0417 243 719
cbeale@mmal.com.au

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Mitsubishi Motors Australia is part of the global Mitsubishi Motors organisation and is fully owned by Mitsubishi, one of the world's largest companies.

The company's history dates back to 1870, when Mitsubishi's Japanese founder, Yataro Iwasaki, started a shipping company with three steamships. The company grew from strength to strength and, in 1914, registered the Mitsubishi three-diamond trademark. This symbol embodies more than 130 years of tradition, and has earned the confidence and trust of customers all over the world.

Mitsubishi works hard to develop award winning new cars and automotive technology.

If you would like to know more about the Mitsubishi iMiEV Electric Cars or a Mitsubishi commercial vehicle see the Mitsubishi website.