Mitsubishi iMiev EV Exclusive Test Drive

Guys a popularmechanics.com (click for video) had an opportunity to test drive this Mitsubishi's upcoming all-electric urban car. They confirmed that it will come to market in 2009 (Japan), but nothing is known for US and Europe. PM report that there are not many differences betwen gasoline and this elecic car regarding acceleration - its acceleration is way betteer that those of an economy car.

Mitsubithi's engineers managed to calibrate regenerative breaking, which is now non-itrousive, and you cannot even feel it - this is completely different from typical EV, which feels like hitting a wall when you brake to recharge a batter.

Mitsubishi iMiev has couple different shifting options: in regular drive it offers full 74 kW of power, in eco mode you get 18 kW which results in around 10% boost in range - but acceleration is still good even in eco mode! On average US cycle it runs for 74-miles range. At 110 volts, recharging takes 14 hours; half that with 220 volts. And if you have 220 volts, you can charge it up 80 percent in 35 minutes with Mistubishi's proprietary quick charge method!

Although first video (japan one) describes the test car as finalalized design concept, we also sighted a sport version of Mitsubishi iMiEV… No further information about its availability or plans was provided. Pricing for Japan market is not yet known.

For more info read the Misubishi iMiev Official Specifications.

Sources: the good human
Photo Credit: CNET Networks