We drove the i-MiEV on the usual errands, such as running to the grocery store, and, like any nervous EV operator, we found ourselves keeping close tabs on the battery’s 16-bar state-of-charge gauge. Mitsubishi claims a 100-mile range from full charge, but driving the car normally in stop-and-go city traffic saw the power level drop precipitously, pushing the car into a more realistic 50- to 60-mile range.<\/p>\n
Using “eco” mode, which cuts power to the motor, helped increase range, so we typically selected maximum-power “D” mode only when we needed full acceleration, and quickly shifted back to eco mode for most other driving. A third mode, “B,” aids in recharging the batteries from engine braking, so we put it to use on even slight inclines and when coasting to stops.<\/p>\n
Once the power bars indicate that the batteries are nearly depleted, the onboard navigation system provides locations of the nearest fast-charge points–at least in Tokyo. The Japanese government is working to expand the nation’s infrastructure of “eco stations,” and the capital city is already equipped with numerous quick-charge stations.<\/p>\n
At a quick-charging station, the i-MiEV’s batteries recharge to 80 percent capacity in about 20 minutes, via a high-voltage plug behind a conventional filler cap. A 100 percent charge by plugging into a 110-volt home outlet takes about 16 hours (eight hours on a 220-volt outlet). Approximate cost: $1.<\/p>\n
After one week and 200 miles in the seat on Tokyo streets, we think it’s clear that the i-MiEV makes sense for those who have short daily commutes or those who need economical transportation for brief urban trips. For those drivers, especially in Japan-where the government is providing subsidies to keep EV sticker prices down and where new charging locations are being added every week–the futuristic i-MiEV is ready today.<\/p>\n
2010 Mitsubishi i-MiEV<\/b><\/p>\n
ON SALE:<\/b> Now in Japan<\/p>\n
PRICE:<\/b> $42,420 ($30,700 with government subsidies)<\/p>\n
POWERTRAIN:<\/b> Electric motor, 63-hp, 133-lb-ft electric motor, direct drive<\/p>\n
CURB WEIGHT:<\/b> 2,425 lb<\/p>\n
0-60 MPH:<\/b> 13 sec (est)<\/p>\n
For more <\/p>\n
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