In keeping with the green theme that has been underlying most of the major auto shows in recent months, Mitsubishi has unveiled an all-electric concept at the Geneva Motor Show. Dubbed the i MiEV SPORT AIR concept, the show car is a continuation of Mitsubishi’s i MiEV series.
Unlike past i MiEV concepts, the SPORT AIR takes on a convertible body style. In true show car fashion, the SPORT AIR doesn’t use a conventional soft top, but rather a removable “clear cutaway” top. There doesn’t appear to be any way to store the top aboard the SPORT AIR, so we expect that configuration to change for production. However, the SPORT AIR’s top cleverly incorporates solar panels to help with power duties.
The SPORT AIR is powered by a “beefed-up electric motor”, with output jumping from 47 kW to an even 60. Thanks to its lithium-ion battery pack, the SPORT AIR promises an all-electric range of 120 miles — up 20 from the last MiEV itteration. A full charge takes 7-hours on a standard household plug, but a quick charge system should allow for an 80 percent charge in just 35 minutes.
A production version of the i MiEV SPORT AIR concept is expected to hit the Japanese market in 2010.
03/03, 11:11 AM
posted by:
bigjimid
After I got over the bubble look, I don’t think it looks too bad. Also, thanks for all the shots of the rear and one crappy front shot LLN.
03/03, 11:50 AM
posted by:
MannyCoon
Looks like it could have been a next-gen VW Beetle. The front reminds me a bit of an Isetta, albeit much more rakish.
03/03, 12:26 PM
posted by:
orangecones
we really need the miev in the US. Urban folk will eat this thing up with a 2 year waiting list if its prices in the Smart Fortwo range.
03/03, 12:36 PM
posted by:
SSEAN54
This looks like a VW Beetle in a funhouse mirror.
03/03, 12:40 PM
posted by:
beatusmongous
LMAO, Ssean!
03/03, 12:55 PM
posted by:
bolex
i really still couldnt tell which was the front. and i think it looks cooler going the other way. it really doesnt look that bad, S Sean54 good call, it could also have been a redesigned bug.
03/03, 7:13 PM
posted by:
Vroom
Looks like a Beetle that’s been stepped on. Yuck.
03/04, 12:17 AM
posted by:
maxcar
can’t tell if it’s coming or going. i can’t remember if it was daf or skoda, but they built a car in the ’80’s where the windshield and the rear window were identical. you could still tell which end was the front, though.