The Mitsubishi i-MiEV, a vehicle that holds a unique place in automotive history, is no longer available for sale in the US. This electric car, which predates even the Nissan LEAF in terms of mass production and public availability in the country, has concluded its almost decade-long run.
Quirky Charm and the i-MiEV’s Unique Appeal
Few small electric vehicles have evoked such strong reactions as the Mitsubishi i-MiEV. Whether you admired or disliked its distinctive styling, this little car served as the entry point into the world of electric mobility for many, revealing a realm of new possibilities. For some, it even holds sentimental value. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV, especially in its eye-catching raspberry hue, marked a personal milestone as my first electric vehicle review back in 2009, shortly after its launch.
During my initial test drive, the i-MiEV garnered smiles and exclamations of “How cute!” from onlookers, arguably more so than my classic 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. Was it the Manga-inspired front end? Its compact dimensions? Or a combination of these elements and perhaps something more intangible?
Image showcasing the front profile of a raspberry-colored Mitsubishi i-MiEV, highlighting its quirky and compact design.
Mitsubishi i-MiEV: Technical Specifications and Urban Prowess
While not designed for high-speed highway cruising or spirited canyon drives, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV excelled as a remarkably efficient city car. Its modest 66 horsepower at 3000 rpm and 145 lb-ft of torque, powered by an 80 amp-hour battery pack, effectively propelled its 2579 pounds, achieving impressive energy efficiency. The EPA fuel economy ratings stood at 121/102 MPGe (city/highway). This made it an ideal first car and a practical, efficient everyday vehicle. Surprisingly spacious inside, it also offered generous headroom.
The origins of the i-MiEV can be traced back to the 1980s when Swatch CEO Nicolas G. Hayek envisioned the company venturing into car manufacturing. This vision led to the birth of the Smart Car. However, Swatch eventually sought partnerships for production and distribution. While most automakers were skeptical of the European iCar concept, Daimler recognized its potential, observing its suitability for the congested streets of Japan and Asia.
My personal introduction to electric vehicle test drives began with the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, marking a significant moment in my experience with EVs.
The original Smart Car was a two-door model, while the Mitsubishi i-MiEV offered a more practical four-door configuration. Interestingly, Mitsubishi utilized the four-door version of the Smart Car, sold in Europe, as the basis for its i-MiEV. Europe even saw a Roadster version of the Smart Car, an appealing candidate for electric conversion for enjoyable urban driving. During this period, Mitsubishi and Daimler were exploring closer collaboration with Chrysler to form a larger automotive group. Despite the ambitious goals, this merger, much like the previous Chrysler–Daimler attempt, ultimately proved unsuccessful. When Daimler and Mitsubishi decided to dissolve their partnership, the Smart Car assets were divided: Daimler retained the two-door Smart Car, and Mitsubishi acquired the four-door version. This historical detail is perhaps not widely known.
Image displaying a side view of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV in an urban setting, emphasizing its compact size and four-door practicality.
The End of the Road for Mitsubishi i-MiEV in the US
Sales figures for the i-MiEV in the US market fell short of Mitsubishi’s expectations. Despite successes in racing events using the i-MiEV platform, consumer sales never reached the company’s initial targets. However, attributing this solely to the i-MiEV’s quirky aesthetics or its adequate performance overlooks a broader context. Mitsubishi has faced considerable challenges over the past two decades, seeking various alliances with limited long-term success before eventually becoming part of the Nissan group.
The i-MiEV stood out as an unconventional offering from a brand more renowned for performance models like the Lancer Evolution. The Lancer Evolution transformed an ordinary sedan into a high-performance road machine. Discussions around a potential PHEV version of the Lancer Evolution were common, given the public’s growing interest in powerful PHEVs and EVs to counter persistent myths surrounding electric vehicles. Regrettably, a PHEV Lancer Evolution never materialized.
Image highlighting the Mitsubishi i-MiEV in a bright outdoor setting, showcasing its full body and design.
Final Reflections on the Mitsubishi i-MiEV
Some products and services, despite their potential, do not always achieve mainstream success. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV might not have become the iconic electric vehicle it could have been, but it played a crucial role as a pioneer of this generation, paving the way for many electric models we see today.
Current i-MiEV owners appreciate their vehicles, content to let critics debate less relevant points. The era of new Mitsubishi i-MiEV sales in the US has concluded as all available units have been sold. However, the used car market still offers opportunities to find i-MiEVs, often at attractive prices.
Looking ahead, anticipation builds for the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, a model eagerly awaited in the US market. Will it finally make its debut?
Image depicting a Mitsubishi i-MiEV parked at a charging station, emphasizing its electric nature and connection to EV infrastructure.
