Mitsubishi Motors Corporation announced the start of production of the North American version of its i-MiEV new-generation electric vehicle (EV) at its Mizushima Plant. The North American version of the i-MiEV will initially be available in Hawaii, California, Washington, and Oregon in late November of 2011. The automaker plans to expand sales throughout other regions of the U.S. and Canada by the end of fiscal year 2012.
The North American version of the i-MiEV has been outfitted with safety features that include an advanced airbag system that controls deployment force based on passengers’ detected seating positions and a tire pressure monitoring system to conform to North American safety requirements. To better meet the needs of North American customers, its torque has been given a boost compared with other versions of the i-MiEV. In addition, the North American version of the i-MiEV features new front and rear bumpers for enhanced protection and stability along with a larger body.
Mitsubishi began sales of its i-MiEV in Japan in July 2009 as the “ultimate eco-car.” In a statement, the company explained the i-MiEV was “a solution to the various challenges facing society today including environmental pollution, global warming and energy diversification.”
Mistubishi started exporting the i-MiEV to European countries in 2010. As of the end of September this year, Misubishi’s total EV production volume reached approximately 16,000 units. By adding the United States and Canada, Mitsubishi continues to expand its growing global EV presence.
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