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Tuesday, February 28, 2006

Mitsubishi Introduces New Concept-EZ MIEV

As promised (see previous post), Mistubishi unveiled their Concept-EZ MIEV (Mistubishi In-wheel Electric Vehicle) at the 76th Geneva International Motor Show which started today. The new all-electric 4WD concept vehicle takes advantage of the compact nature of the MIEV architecture to deliver a compact mono-box design with a very roomy interior that comfortably seats five adults.

The Concept-EZ comes on the heels of the equally acronym-happy Concept-CT MIEV, a series-parallel hybrid introduced at the Detroit Auto Show in January. The Concept-EZ showcases an all-electric application of the company’s MIEV architecture for next-generation electric and hybrid vehicles using in-wheel motors and a high energy-density lithium-ion battery system as core technologies.

The EZ is driven by four 20 kW in-wheel motors delivering a combined maximum output of 107 hp (80 kW) and combined torque of 1,600 Nm. The use of the in-wheel motor also allows for a “wheel-at-a-corner” layout for high-stability road-hugging, accoring to Green Car Congress.

The lithium-ion battery system has an output of 24 kW and weighs 150 kg. The battery back is mounted under the floor and the lack of absence of a centerline powertrain due to the MIEV design allows the Concept-EZ to provide a roomy interior despite its compact exterior. According to GCC, the EZ also provides three seating arrangements:

  • Lounge mode: A conference room-like space with the seats arranged in a circle.

  • Transport mode: Luggage space with the rear seats stowed under the floor.

  • Driving mode: Appropriate for normal driving conditions, spacious and comfortable seating for five adults.


  • [Image: The MIEV EZ in 'lounge mode']

    The Concept-EZ accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 11 seconds, and has a cruising range of 120 km (75 miles) with a maximum speed of 150 km/h (93 mph).

    The Concept-EZ is the fourth MIEV vehicle Mitsubishi has developed, starting first with the Colt EV in the spring of 2005, followed by the Lancer Evolution and then the Concept-CT. See this previous post for more on Mitsu's MIEV architecture.

    [A hat tip to Green Car Congress]

    2 comments:

    Heiko said...

    http://thefraserdomain.typepad.com/energy/2006/02/from_niche_to_n.html#more

    http://www.nrdc.org/air/energy/pump/pump.pdf

    "In combination with improved fuel efficiency in cars and smart growth planning in our towns and cities ...:

    - biofuels could virtually eliminate our demand for gasoline by 2050"

    Just to answer your query over on the energy blog.

    I agree it's still misleading, as it selectively quotes the bit of the study they like best (without mentioning that improved fuel efficiency would have to be part of the equation).

    gbrum said...

    It's cute, but needs more capacity to cary light weight equipemnt. If it won't carry two mountain bikes of two pair of skiis it's no good to me and I'll pay the gas station to haul it in my 4W/D truck. ind of a waste. I'm looking for alternatives...gotta be able to haul more than groceries or a basketball.