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Low Cost "Fuel" Source
The operating cost per mile of the
electrical-powered Mitsubishi "i" is significantly cheaper than that of a
comparable gasoline-powered vehicle. In Japan, the operating cost is only 1/3
that of the 660cc gasoline engine-powered version of the car, and the operating
cost can drop even more significantly than that of its internal-combustion
sibling by taking advantage of reduced electricity rates by recharging during
nighttime or off-peak hours.
Accommodation and Safety
Thanks to the vehicle's excellent packaging and engineering in relation to its
size, this uniquely styled automobile provides an excellent level of safety,
enough room for four adults plus handy cargo space.
How can a small car
possess such ample interior volume? Mitsubishi engineers have cleverly placed
the high-capacity lithium-ion batteries beneath the floor, and the electric
motor, inverter and battery charger have been located behind and below the rear
passenger area. This setup also has the added benefit of lowering the vehicle's
center of gravity. Along with the wheels being placed at the farthest corners of
the vehicle, this gives the "i" exceptional stability along with surprisingly
agile handling.
Advanced Electric Powertrain
The power
system consists of a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor and a high
energy density lithium-ion battery pack that consists of 88 cells (22 modules, 4
battery cells per module) for a maximum battery capacity of 16 kWh. The battery
modules can be installed either transversely or vertically; this packaging
flexibility allows them to be stored underneath the cabin floor. All 88 cells
reside within an extremely sturdy stainless steel capsule to provide maximum
protection.
The "i" also features a groundbreaking three-way battery
charging system that allows the vehicle to be charged using the onboard
household charger through either 110V (15A) or 220V (15A) power sources or by a
quick-charger system that utilizes a three-phase 220V power supply. The charging
times from a very low battery to completely full are approximately 8 hours at
220V and 16 hours at 110V. The three-phase 220V quick-charger can take a low
battery all the way up to an 80% battery charge in under a remarkably fast 30
minutes. The three-phase quick-charger makes use of a special outlet that is
accessible on the driver's side of the vehicle, while the onboard household
charger's outlet is located on the passenger side of the "i".
Mitsubishi i MiEV: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications