Mitsubishi i: In Detail

Press Release

Overview

Mitsubishi Motors UK is carrying out a feasibility study on the “i”, an innovative four-seater city car that went on sale in Japan in early 2006. If the study proves successful, the “i” will be imported as a single, highly specified model and priced at £8,999. It will compete against city cars such as the Toyota Aygo, and lifestyle-orientated susperminis such as the Peugeot 1007.

The name “i” implies many things. It is a play on the Japanese word “ai” meaning love, which emphasises the car’s people- and eco-friendly properties. “i” also implies individuality, innovation, imagination and intelligence – qualities that are encapsulated in this diminutive Mitsubishi.

The “i” is built around a bespoke aluminium space-frame chassis with a 660cc, three cylinder turbo engine located in front of the rear axle. This unique rear-mid-engined configuration is reflected in the ‘one motion’ shape, which optimises the car’s interior volume while creating a look that is neat, contemporary and self-consciously Japanese. This is a shape that will appeal to a wide demographic and stand out from the crowd without looking contrived.

Its dimensions are ideally suited to the demands of modern, urban motoring. It’s both narrower and shorter than its city car and supermini rivals, which is a key advantage in the cut and thrust of urban driving. But while the footprint is small, the wheelbase is longer than most full-sized superminis, including the Mitsubishi Colt, to the benefit of both passenger space and vehicle dynamics. (see quick reference table)

The benefits of the long wheelbase are immediately apparent when you open one of the five doors. There is ample space inside for a quartet of adults and their luggage. The large windscreen and low-slung dashboard provide a light, airy ambience and contribute to the vehicle’s excellent visibility.

The fascia is constructed using high quality plastics and the soft, organic shapes conjure a sense of well-being. The “i” is the first Japanese car to use Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified hypoallergenic seat fabric, which, in combination with a deodorant roof lining and a clean air filter for the standard automatic air conditioning, purifies the cabin. For passengers susceptible to allergies, this represents a major breakthrough.

The cabin is also packed with secure storage space for the odds and ends that are part of contemporary motoring life. And if more luggage space is required, the rear-seat back splits 50:50 and folds flat.

Powering the “i” is an all-alloy, 660cc three-cylinder petrol engine that combines a turbocharger and intercooler with MIVEC variable valve timing on the intake valvetrain. This provides drive to the rear wheels through the standard-fit INVECS-II 4-speed automatic transmission, which helps take the stress out of urban motoring.

The engine delivers 64bhp at 6000rpm and 93Nm (69lb ft) of torque at 3000rpm, helping the “i” accelerate from 0 to 50mph in 11.2sec and on to a top speed of around 90mph. The average consumption is estimated at 55.0mpg, while the carbon dioxide emissions are expected to be lower than 120g/km, making the “i” an ideal choice for the environmentally conscious.

MacPherson struts at the front and a 3-link De Dion set-up at the rear make-up the suspension. The rear-mid-engined configuration has enabled the engineers to optimise the front-suspension set-up and combine a comfortable ride quality with responsive, nippy handling. The vehicle’s exceptionally long wheelbase and wheel-at-each corner stance promotes high-speed stability, while the taxi-like 4.5m turning circle adds to its appeal as an urban runabout.

The aluminium space-frame chassis and rear-mid-configuration also contribute to the safety credentials of Mitsubishi’s “i”.  The nose of the car contains a large crumple zone and the aluminium frame has been designed to absorb energy in frontal and side impacts. In a rear impact, the platform and engine work in unison to dissipate the energy.

Twin front airbags are fitted as standard while ISOFIX child seat mounting mounting points and anti-trap electric windows help protect the next generation.  Pedestrians are well protected thanks to an innovative energy-absorbing wiper pivot under the front bonnet, while the standard ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) helps drivers avoid an accident in the first place.

Just one version of “i” is being considered for the UK and, in the best Japanese tradition, it will come packed with standard equipment and the latest technology. Automatic air conditioning (climate control), a six-speaker stereo with a CD player, front and rear electric windows and electrically operated and folding door mirrors all feature as standard. So too does metallic paint and a keyless entry system that allows the driver to open the car and start the engine without taking the key out of their pocket or handbag.

Jim Tyrrell, Mitsubishi Motors UK managing director, says: “The “i” would offer a genuine alternative in a congested market. Its diminutive dimensions make it an ideal choice for the forward-thinking city dweller, but it’s equally capable on the open road. The “i” has already become a cult car in Japan and we’re confident that its space and sophistication, coupled with Mitsubishi’s reputation for quality and reliability, would also make it a hit in the UK.”

Mitsubishi In-wheel motor Electric Vehicle (MIEV)

Mitsubishi has announced that the “i” will become the first production car to feature MIEV (Mitsubishi In-wheel Motor Electric Vehicle) technology. The Japanese launch is scheduled for 2010.

As its name suggest, MIEV locates the motor within the circumference of the wheel. This makes it possible to regulate drive torque and braking force independently at each wheel without the need for a transmission, drive shaft or other complex mechanical system. By locating a motor in each wheel, the “i” will offer the benefits of four-wheel drive.

The MIEV “i” will be powered by a Lithium-ion battery. It is estimated that by the time production starts, the car will offer a range of 250km from a four-hour charge. MIEV owners will be able to plug the car into their domestic plug socket and overnight charging could achieve an efficiency saving of up to 90per cent compared with a traditional petrol alternative. The car will initially be targeted at urban dwellers, who only use their vehicle to travel short distances.

In the future, MIEV could also be used in conjunction with hydrogen fuel cell technology. By mounting the motors in the wheels, MIEV will provide designers with greater freedom, creating exciting possibilities in the field of body design.

Quick reference information

In the UK the Daihatsu Sirion, Chevrolet Matiz, Toyota Aygo and Peugeot 107 are seen as key competitors to the “i”, together with lifestyle alternatives such as the Peugeot 1007.  The Citroen C1 and Suzuki Wagon R are felt to be on the fringe.

Dimensions compared to key compatitors and Colt 5 door