The Sports coupe is even greener by including solar panels, wind turbine fans, reduced CO2 emissions and solar control glass that can monitor the amount of light and heat entering the vehicle and adjust the in-car air conditioning accordingly.

The Power of Small: Mitsubishi Motors Showcases Little Cars With Big Capabilities

March 18, 2008 — NEW YORK —
The Mitsubishi Motors vehicles displayed at the 2008 New York International Auto Show will help North American consumers "get small" and get acquainted with Mitsubishi's renowned small car building capabilities. Tetsuro Aikawa, Managing Director In Charge of Product Development Group Headquarters, will introduce to the North American media the i, i MiEV, i MiEV Sport concept and Concept-cX minicars. The concept and production cars will raise awareness of the capability, sophistication, and design intelligence found in the Mitsubishi's minicar and compact vehicles.

Beyond the obvious advantages offered by smaller, lighter weight vehicles such as improved fuel economy, maneuverability, and reduced cost of ownership, the Mitsubishi models on display offer clever design features and capabilities traditionally associated with larger cars.

"i": To the third power
The increased congestion of urban environments, rising fuel prices, and the cumulative effects of exhaust emissions are all compelling arguments for smaller, more efficient personal transportation. The innovative design and layout of the award-winning "i" minicar showcases Mitsubishi's small car building prowess. Three "i" variants will appear at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, including the "i" (gasoline), the i MiEV (Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle), and the i MiEV Sport concept. The Mitsubishi Motors "i" family represents technological progress in capability and efficiency of the small car concept.

"i": Style power
On sale in Japan since 2006, the innovative "i" minicar maximizes a kei-class* car footprint to combine a smoother ride; nimble handling, interior space to accommodate four adults, all wrapped in a unique, stylish package. The "i" is powered by an aluminum three-cylinder, 660cc turbocharged, gasoline engine. This premium minicar's unique rear midship layout locates the engine ahead of the rear axle and helps the vehicle overcome the challenges for interior space, ride comfort and handling typically associated with the minicar class. The optimized interior package long (2550mm or 100.4 inches) wheelbase yields class-leading comfort, handling, and ride quality. The exterior and interior designs offer a fresh take on the traditionally boxy minicar class.

The "i" proved so successful at conquering the challenges associated with small car design that it won several major awards including the RJC (Automotive Researchers and Journalist Conference) Car of the Year 2007, and the Good Design Grand Prize 2006 (awarded by the Japan Industrial Design Promotion Organization). While the RJC award focuses on the automotive industry, the Good Design Grand Prize has a 52-year tradition and screens entries from all fields of human activity based the view that design is an essential element in all fields of everyday life and industry. The "Good Design Award 2006" received 2,918 entries from April 26th to June 7th 2006.

*The kei-class is a popular small vehicle segment in Japan that is limited to a 660cc engine and a 3375mm (132.9 inches) long x 1475mm (58 inches) wide footprint. Vehicle taxation in Japan is related to elements such as engine displacement, vehicle size, and emissions; minicars offer owners tax advantages and reduced cost of ownership.

i MiEV: Electric power
The i MiEV electric vehicle, in its first US show appearance, improves on the efficient rear mid-ship layout by adapting a zero-emissions state-of-the-art electric drivetrain to this small car package. A durable 330-volt lithium-ion battery system is located under the floor deck, powering a permanent magnet electric motor. With this packaging, the i MiEV is able to offer the same level of interior utility and space as the gasoline version while lowering the center of gravity for more stable handling. The 47 kW electric motor offers improved performance over the 64 hp gasoline version. With instantaneous electric power, the i MiEV offers quicker acceleration compared to the gasoline version. The battery, developed by the MMC joint venture company Lithium Energy Japan, represents the leading edge in battery technology, and promises up to 100 miles of driving on a single charge. The i MiEV will launch in Japan next year (2009), adding a no-pollution solution for congested city streets.

i MiEV Sport: Sports power
The i MiEV Sport concept, making its North American debut in New York, maximizes the sporty possibilities of the zero-emissions electric vehicle.

The i MiEV Sport concept is a coupe variation on the i MiEV with a "fastback" roofline with a strong performance bias, leveraging the electric vehicle's natural advantages for a performance payoff. The Sport is constructed using a rigid lightweight aluminum frame that helps improve performance and range. The rear mid-ship layout (like the i MiEV) optimizes interior space and ideally situates the drivetrain's electrical components to maximize handling. In the interest of improved on-road capability, the i MiEV Sport's powertrain utilizes multiple electric motors. Two 20 kW electric motors, one built into each front wheel, work together with a single, powerful 47 kW motor that drives the rear wheels. Power output, traction and braking at all four wheels are controlled by the S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) system which integrates the ABS and ASC (Active Stability Control) systems to provide outstanding control and handling. For this electric vehicle application, a new E-AYC (Electronic Active Yaw Control) produces the same torque vectoring characteristics as the Lancer Evolution's AYC to give the vehicle playful road manners while maximizing stability and control.

The advanced, futuristic i MiEV Sport concept is also environmentally thoughtful in function and design. While a light green pearlescent exterior evokes thoughts of nature, the heat-absorbing window glass improves the efficiency of the air conditioning and low-drain LEDs are used throughout the vehicle including the rear combination lamps and interior lighting. An auxiliary photovoltaic generator on the roof makes effective use of solar energy; turbines in the front grille harness wind power; regenerative brakes capture motive power. The interior styling is clean, simple and fluid, allowing the driver to feel at home in this sporty, zero-emissions electric vehicle.

Concept-cX
In addition the trio of "i" minicars, the Concept-cX will appear at the New York International Auto show.The Concept-cX showcases a forward-thinking small SUV design that offers high levels of road and environmental performance with a newly developed 1.8-liter clean diesel engine mated to a Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission). With its high seat position providing a wider field of view and its split tailgate giving easy access to the luggage compartment, the Concept-cX offers enhanced safety, utility and convenience. The interior is a nod to the modern with a mix of black and white with warm brown leather accents. A clean, sophisticated IP allows the driver enjoyment in an appealing, comfortable environment. Energy-absorbing materials are used throughout the vehicle, including the lower bumper, to increase the ability to restore its form after minor collisions. The Mitsubishi Concept-cX is a small soft-roader for on-road use that combines a high level or utility, fuel economy and driver enjoyment.
New Additions to the Lancer Lineup - the Grown-up Compact Evolves

Also on display will be Mitsubishi's latest additions to the compact Lancer series, the high performance Lancer Evolution, the 2009 Lancer GTS 2.4 and the turbocharged Lancer Ralliart, showing how much fun can be squeezed into a smaller sedan. Building off the success of the redesigned 2008 Lancer, the 2009 Lancer GTS boasts a new 2.4L engine and combines a sport-tuned suspension with 18-inch wheels, 215/45 R18 tires and large 4-wheel disc brakes. Powered by a new 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC intercooled and turbocharged engine that boosts an estimated 235 horsepower, the Lancer Ralliart offers a medium between the Lancer GTS and the Lancer Evolution. Set to arrive at dealerships in the summer of 2008, the Lancer Ralliart will also feature a Twin Clutch-SST gearbox and a full-time 4WD driveline with Active Center Differential (ACD).

About Mitsubishi Motors North America
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development operations for Mitsubishi Motors in the United States. MMNA sells coupes, convertibles, sedans, sport utility vehicles, and light trucks through a network of approximately 500 dealers. For more information, contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (888) 560-6672 or visit media.mitsubishicars.com.

Press Release:

Mitsubishi Motors lineup at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show

i MiEV SPORT
MITSUBISHI Concept-ZT

Tokyo, September 7, 2007 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is proud to introduce three concept cars at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show. Each car is a different expression of the three pillars of Mitsubishi Motor's vehicle strategy: driving pleasure, reassuring safety and environmental responsibility. Held at Makuhari Messe, the 40th Tokyo Motor Show is open to the public from October 27 through November 11, with press and media days October 24, 25 and 26.

World Premiere: i MiEV SPORT

Based on the i MiEV,*1 the pinnacle of Mitsubishi Motors's environmental technology, the i MiEV SPORT maximizes the sporty possibilities of the zero-emissions electric vehicle. The high power and environmental performance of its electric motors make it an exhilarating drive that delivers superior environmental performance.

*1: MiEV: Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle

World Premiere: MITSUBISHI Concept-ZT*2
The Concept-ZT showcases an advanced level of driving pleasure, safety and environmental responsibility — Mitsubishi Motor's vehicle strategy — wrapped in a realistic package. Under the hood, a newly developed fuel-efficient, 2.2-liter clean diesel engine is mated to the new Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission). Concept-ZT also features advanced active safety as well as passive safety technology, such as its pop-up hood.
*2: ZT: "Z" meaning the ultimate, plus "T" for tourer

World Premiere: MITSUBISHI Concept-cX*3
Developed from Mitsubishi Motors' legendary SUV experience, the Concept-cX is a compact SUV with nimble running performance and utility on roads, as well as solid environmental performance.
*3: cX: "c" for compact, plus "X" for crossover

1. i MiEV SPORT world first
(Show Car)

Characteristics
Based on the i MiEV, the i MiEV SPORT enhances the "driving" image of Mitsubishi's electric vehicles. The car features Mitsubishi Motors' unique in-wheel motors in the front plus S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) — the company's vehicle dynamics control system — to achieve high maneuverability as well as high levels of both environmental and running performance. The car brings a new closeness between people and cars; allowing them to become more a part of daily life.

Design
The "fastback" exterior design expresses the quickness of the car with an appearance that is pleasing and lively. An efficient, environmentally friendly electric vehicle thanks to its compact size, it also possesses exceptionally fluid styling. A simplified interior styling creates a pleasant space, allowing occupants to feel at home. Geometry, metallic materials and body epitomize the futuristic electric vehicle. Interior lighting, too, has been carefully thought out, with the use of many blue LEDs suggestive of nature, creating a sophisticated, cutting-edge atmosphere.

The light green exterior marks another association with nature. The pearlescent paint, which shines when hit with direct light, brings feelings of advanced, futuristic technology and environmental peace of mind. The interior is sporty and dynamic as a result of the substantial use of mesh materials, while the space, with various natural elements, fosters feelings of both security and comfort.

Packaging
Like the i MiEV, i MiEV Sport uses a rear-midship design in its layout. Making use of the relatively long wheelbase of this platform, a high-capacity lithium-ion battery is installed in the lowest area under the floor, and components including a motor and inverter are arranged beneath the luggage compartment. This layout provides optimal distribution of weight, front and rear, and a lower center of gravity for stability, sporty performance, and a spacious interior.

Body Structure
An aluminum space frame — a combination of aluminum extrusions and aluminum die casting — is light, rigid and strong; helping to improving performance by minimizing weight.
The optimum layout of structural members, including front-side and cross members, efficiently absorbs crash energy in the event of front-end or side collision. In a collision from the rear, EV components under the back seat and rear floor serve as a barrier to ensure the integrity of the passenger compartment. By making use of the rear-midship layout and utilizing Mitsubishi's latest RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body, the concept realizes excellent occupant protection in collisions from any direction, even when colliding with a vehicle of different height or weight.

Powertrain / S-AWC
The system employs a structure consisting of three permanent magnetic synchronous motors. One in-wheel motor is placed at each front wheel; a single motor drives the rear wheels, as is used in the "i MiEV" system. An E-4WD system electronically optimizes the output of all motors. In addition, a new E-AYC (Electric Active Yaw Control) system is employed to directly regulate torque at the left and right rear wheels via an electric motor. In addition to the E-4WD and E-AYC, the S-AWC system integrates ABS and ASC (Active Stability Control) systems, thus independently controlling driving force, traction and braking at all four wheels, for total maneuverability and maximum stability.

Energy Saving Technology/Environmental Technology
Energy-saving environmental considerations are seen throughout the i MiEV SPORT. Effective use of energy is achieved by installing an auxiliary photovoltaic generator on the roof, a power-generating fan inside the front grill, and regenerative braking functions to recover energy when the car is slowing down. Much of the lighting is by bright, power-saving LEDs, including in the rear combination lamps and vehicle interior, and the efficiency of the air conditioning is enhanced by the use of heat-absorbing window glass. In addition, Green Plastic — Mitsubishi Motors' unique plant-based resin technology — is used wherever possible for interior components in another nod to the environment.

Specifications
Overall length 3,450 [mm]
Overall width 1,600 [mm]
Overall height 1,400 [mm]
Wheelbase 2,550 [mm]
Track (F/R) 1,405/1,405 [mm]
Seating capacity 2 + 2
Motors Permanent magnetic synchronous motors
Front: In-wheel motors
Rear: Single motor
Max. output Front: 20kW � 2; Rear: 47kW
Max. torque Front: 250 Nm � 2; Rear: 180 Nm
Max. Speed 180km/h
Range (10-15 Mode) 200km
Tires 175/40R17

2. MITSUBISHI Concept-ZT world first
(Show Car)

Characteristics
By combining a high-powered, fuel-efficient, 2.2-liter clean diesel engine and Twin Clutch SST, and using significant quantities of Green Plastic in the interior, a high level of running and environmental performance is achieved. In addition to advanced active safety technology, Concept-ZT achieves a high level of passive safety. Features include pre-crash safety; a lane-drift warning system; driving assistance technology, including new all-around multi-monitors and a parking assistance system; and crashworthiness safety technology including a pop-up hood. Moreover, equipped with the S-AWC system combining front E-LSD (Electric control - Limited Slip Differential), ABS and ASC, based on Mitsubishi Motors' 4WD electronic control system, the MITSUBISHI Concept-ZT is a premium sedan that possesses dramatically improved driving, environmental and safety performance.

Design
The basic exterior form, simple and flowing with a low center of gravity, yields a sense of stability and sportiness fitting Mitsubishi Motors' premier sedan This base is combined with a powerful shoulder line, substantial side panels and projecting fenders. Sculptured headlights, grill and aluminum wheels proclaim quality and status created out of "Japanese" sensitivity — a sophisticated and adult sensibility.
In the interior, the goal was a level of "hospitality" that would resonate with all the senses of the occupants. Combinations of designs with clear contrasts — simple forms with overall continuity gently embrace passengers and precise, hard functional parts — express the melding of quality, comfort and the pleasure of driving. Meters and monitors are of clear materials, futuristically stacked, with the beauty of industrial art.

Minute quantities of a new reflective material add elegance to the body color. In combination with decorative parts, including wheels and grill, a radiant presence is realized with a sense of quality and refinement, like jeweled layers of precious metals. Interior colors are a combination of grained black wood, metal and leather, making maximum use of materials expressing boldness, sophistication and grace.

Powertrain/S-AWC
The concept's powerplant is a newly developed 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC, 16-valve with VD (Variable Diffuser)/VG (Variable Geometry) clean turbodiesel engine with common-rail direct fuel injection (piezoelectric injector) that delivers a maximum output of 140 kW and maximum torque of 400 Nm.
The power unit is mated to Mitsubishi's new Twin Clutch SST, which delivers superior power transmission efficiency in a powertrain that realizes smooth, responsive, effortless power and acceleration, whether on the highway or in urban areas, together with good fuel economy. The S-AWC system combines front E-LSD (Electric control - Limited Slip Differential), ABS and ASC with the 4WD electronic control system also used in Outlander and Delica D:5. This optimally controls driving force, traction and braking at all four wheels, and provides stable driving on various road surfaces under various conditions, realizing a pleasurable and safe driving experience.

Body Structure
As in the i MiEV SPORT, the aluminum space frame structure combines aluminum extrusion and aluminum die casting, not only realizing a body of great strength and rigidity, but contributing to weight reduction and crashworthiness. In addition, for the outer panels of hoods, fenders, doors and trunk lids, shock-resistant, recyclable resin is used, as seen on the front fender of the Delica D:5.
Safety Technology/Driving Assistance Technology

Pre-crash Safety System: Using millimeter-length radar waves, the system detects cars far ahead as well as obstacles in the adjacent lane. When it determines that objects near the car are too close and there is danger of a collision, it warns the driver to take action. If the system determines that the possibility of a collision is nevertheless quite high, it pretensions seat belts and activates crash-restraint seat cushions to increase passenger restraint, and initiates emergency braking to reduce the impact of an imminent collision.

Lane-Drift Warning System: The system consists of a front camera, steering angle sensor, speed sensor, yaw rate sensor and ECU. The front camera recognizes lane markings (white lines, etc.), and the system, based on information from the other sensors, calculates the possibility of the vehicle drifting out of its lane, warns the driver, and adds steering torque in the direction such that the car stays within the lane.
Pop-Up Hood: If the car should hit a pedestrian, the hood pops up before the person's head strikes the hood, acting as a buffer and minimizing injury to the head.

New All-Around Multi-Monitors: In addition to a nose-view camera and a rear-view camera, cameras with extremely wide-angle lenses are positioned at the left and right sides. Optical distortions of the images from the four cameras are corrected, and the information is converted into a display of the situation all around the car as seen from the top — thus enabling clear confirmation by the driver. The nose camera is also part of the proximity-detection function for approaching objects.

Parking Assistance System: A distance sensor, embedded in the bumper, assesses the space available for parking. If parking is possible, the system will automatically maneuver the wheels (steering) while all the driver must do is control braking.

Specifications
Overall length 4,950 [mm]
Overall width 1,820 [mm]
Overall height 1,440 [mm]
Wheelbase 2,815 [mm]
Track (F/R) 1,555/1,555 [mm]
Seating capacity 4
Engine Clean diesel engine
Max. output 140kW
Max. torque 400 Nm
Transmission Twin Clutch SST
Tires 255/35R20

Rumors that Mitsubishi's been planning a foray into the electric car business have been on the lips of car watchers for months. Now, Automotive News reports the company will soon divulge plans to sell an EV subcompact, powered by a lithium-ion battery, in the US. Mitsu president Osamu "Sparks" Masuko says the car will be launched first in Japan (natch, they get all the good gadgets) before a stateside reveal. Details on the new venture are reportedly forthcoming, but it's no secret Mitsubishi's plotting something electric; it's unveiled several concept cars employing its MIEV in-wheel electric motor technology at recent auto shows, including the hybrid Concept-CT (pictured) in Detroit last year. (Masuko said a hybrid model could also see daylight). AW reported earlier this year that Mitsubishi's production EV would likely be based on the Colt. Takeaway: Could Mitsubishi beat Toyota to the punch with a plug-in? – Mike Spinelli

Related:
New Mitsubishi Concept May Hearken Hybrid, Compact for US Market; More on MIEV [internal]

Mitsubishi's latest MIEV (Mitsubishi In-wheel motor Electric Vehicle) concept, part of the company's long-term study of putting cars' (electric) power at the wheel, had its close-up in Geneva. Designed by Mitsubishi Design Europe (MDE), the Concept-EZ was derived as an "Urban Capsule" (escape pod?) and although it has the profile of a compact car, its interior space equals that of a larger minivan. The van-shaped sci-fi wagon also offers three predefined interior "modes" tuned to different "moods," or needs: One for passenger space, one for storage space and one — a club-like setting with audio and video players — for lounging. A smoking jacket, pipe, and the entire 1968 season of "Playboy After Dark" on DVD are optional.

Related:
Tokyo Motor Show: Mitsubishi to Show Go Anywhere Minivan Concept; Mitsubishi to Show New MIEV Concept in Geneva; More on MIEV [internal]

Mitsubishi is uncovering the next electric-powered concept car in its MIEV (Mitsubishi In-wheel Electric Vehicle) series — the Concept-EZ MIEV — at the Geneva motor show next month. A pod-like monobox using the electric-motors-inside-the-wheels trick Mitsu's been showing off since last year, the EZ riffs on the popular European-style MPV. The company says without a regular drivetrain, the EZ sports a low, flat floor leading to an interior height similar to that of a large MPV, despite its relatively low overall height of 5.7 feet. Mitsubishi has said it expects its MIEV vehicles to be ready for prime time by 2010, just in time to haul our pattern-balding ass out to the Space Elevator.

Related:
Mitsubishi's Latest MIEV: Concept-CT in Detroit; New Colt Cabrio to be Launched in Geneva [internal]

Mitsubishi's Concept-CT further extends Mitsu's MIEV (that's Mitsubishi In-wheel Electric Vehicle) methodology by one, stylized minicar. Sporting the company's recently developed system of electric motors, the CT is a hybrid that also gets power from a 1.0 liter three-cylinder gasoline engine. A Mitsubishi official recently hinted (as such officials sometimes do) that the CT could become a new small car, possible the next-generation Colt. The MIEV systems, however, are likely further off.

Related:
No Starion From Mitsubishi: Eclipse Spyder, Concept-CT Instead [internal]

AutoWeek is reporting Mitsubishi may sell a hybrid-drive car in the US that's smaller than its Lancer, and it may look a lot like the Concept-CT MIEV it plans to unveil in Detroit. According to the company, the CT prototype is an all-wheel-drive four-door, powered by a 1.1-liter gas engine and its MIEV-style electric system (i.e., a motor installed in each wheel) affixed for good measure. A Mitsubishi official also called the prototype "highly finished, and "not just a styling exercise." It's speculated the company could offer the car as gas-only model, to competing amid the range of new, small cars destined for the US, like the Nissan Versa, Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris.

Mitsubishi's Detroit show hybrid concept could be the real deal [AutoWeek]

Related:
Mitsubishi to Unveil 2007 Eclipse Spyder, New MIEV Concept in Detroit [internal]

Mitsubishi released advance sketches today of its 2007 Eclipse and a new, small electric-car concept that it will reveal at the Detroit auto show in January. The Spyderized version of the Eclipse coupe, redesigned for 2005 appears to resolve some of the coupe's design tension — with a top-down look that's more satisfying than the hardtop (at least from the side, and with those obligatory low-low profile meats). Both GS and GT trim lines will be offered, each with a 650-watt Rockford Fosgate Premium Audio system. The company also notes the cabrio will have "a few other surprise features usually reserved for high-priced convertibles and cabriolets." How many guesses?

The Concept CT is a hybrid-drive, B-segment car designed at the company's Cypress, Calif. design center. It sports the same In-wheel Motor Electronic Vehicle (MIEV) technology, introduced at the Tokyo Motor Show in the form of a Lancer Evo. The company says the CT "provides a glimpse into the future of next-generation hybrid powertrain vehicles."

More at Dubspeed Driven

Related:
Mitsubishi Ralliart Eclipse Unveiled; Mitsubishi's Electric Evo: The Lancer Evolution MIEV [internal]

Earlier this year, Mitsubishi announced it would build an electric car — using a system of lithium-ion batteries powering in-wheel motors — by 2010, simultaneously showing off its Colt EV test vehicle and implying it would still be in business after 2007. Today, a more confident Mitsu announced it had built its second test vehicle, a Lancer Evo, to examinine a four-wheel-drive application of its in-wheel system. At base, the the Lancer Evolution MIEV is a gutted Evo IX, with motors mounted on all four wheels and a system of lithium-ion batteries under the floor to provide juice. The MIEV, which the company has entered in Japan's Shikoku EV Rally to be held on August 27 and 28, has a top speed of 112 and can go 155 miles on a charge.

The MIEV's drive motors are mounted inside each wheel using an outer-rotor design, in which the rotor (the spinning part) rotates around a stator (the coiled copper part) that's placed inside the wheel, a configuration the company says raises power output and torque and eliminates the need for a speed reducer — a transmission system in many electric motors that regulates drive speed. The motors spin at a maximum of 1500rpms and provide a constant 382ft/lbs of torque.

Related:
Mitsubishi Says It Will Produce Electric Car by 2010 [internal]