The company plans to use the vehicles in a joint fleet testing program in cooperation with select U.S. power companies in the fall of this year. At the show, which opened to the press on March 19 and will open to the public on March 21, the company's booth is given over to a wide range of exhibits that demonstrate MMC's advanced environmental technology. They include: the i MiEV-derived i MiEV SPORT concept -- which leverages the electric vehicle's natural power and weight advantages for a performance payoff; the MITSUBISHI Concept-cX*2 compact SUV -- powered by MMC's new clean diesel engine due to make its European debut in 2009; and MMC's proprietary plant-based Green Plastic range of interior parts and trim.
The i MiEV is a 100% electric vehicle, using high-energy density lithium batteries to power its compact, lightweight motor. In offering an option to petroleum-based energy sources, Mitsubishi presents one avenue for addressing global warming. In October 2006, working with several power companies, MMC began a fleet test program in Japan to determine i MiEV's overall performance under actual driving conditions and its market acceptability. With plans to start a fleet test program this fall working with several power companies in North America, MMC continues to stride forward in making the EV a practical proposition on a global scale.
Derived from the i MiEV, the i MiEV SPORT features MMC's unique in-wheel motors to drive the front wheels and a single motor in the back, with the company's proven S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) vehicle dynamics control system managing power output, traction and braking at all four wheels. This configuration allows the vehicle to achieve a synergy of environmental and road performance. To boost electric power generation i MiEV SPORT also employs solar panels in its roof and a generator turbine driven by the airflow passing through the front grille. Another feature is its wireless microwave-based battery-charging system.
The MITSUBISHI Concept-cX mates MMC's new 1.8-liter clean diesel engine to the company's Twin Clutch SST*3 automated manual transmission to realize very high levels of driving and environmental performance. This compact SUV soft-roader concept also features a top-bottom split tailgate to enhance accessibility to luggage space.