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Mitsubishi i-MiEV US Version Displayed at 2010 LA Auto Show

2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV US Version2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV US Version2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV US Version2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV US Version2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV US Version2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV US Version2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV US Version2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV US Version2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV US Version2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV US Version
The 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV had to toughen up before going into the US market next year. The current version of the oval-shaped EV is a little too small to meet the strict US federal crash test regulations. The car will be on display at the 2010 LA Auto Show this week, in it's larger US-spec edition.

While the body is now bigger and wider than before, the EV technology will remain mostly unchanged. Using a platform with an original rear-midship layout borrowed from the gas powered "i" minicar, the i-MiEV has a lithium-ion battery placed under the cabin, with the electric motor, inverter and other components situated below and behind the rear passenger seats. The layout is the same used in the gas version of the car which has the engine just in front of the rear axle.

The i-MiEV has a range of 50-80 miles (80 to 120 km). Recharging takes about 8 hours using a normal plug and socket or as little as 30 minutes, using quick charge technology. EVs are still new grounds for engineers, so range and recharge times are improving on an almost monthly basis.

The North American version of the mini electric vehicle has an up-sized structure, providing more interior room and improved safety. In terms of exterior changes, its bumpers have increased in size, contributing to a roughly 11-inch longer overall length.

This electric vehicle has already proved itself a viable and reliable form of transportation as Mitsubishi has been selling the car in its home market since the summer of 2009; production has already commenced for the European-spec i-MiEV.
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