In keeping with the green theme that has been underlying most of the major auto shows, Mitsubishi has unveiled an all-electric concept at the 2009 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 overall style of the i MiEV SPORT AIR resembles a modern VW Beetle, but with the wheel-well arches molded into the body itself. It also has a stretched back design – very aerodynamic and reminiscent of an Olympic skiers helmet.
The SPORT AIR is powered by a “beefed-up electric motor,” with output jumping from 47 kW to an even 60 kW. Thanks to its lithium-ion battery pack, the SPORT AIR promises an all-electric range of 120 miles — up 20 from the last MiEV iteration. 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. With this range and charge time, the i MiEV SPORT AIR is beginning to resemble a practical vehicle choice in a struggling EV market.
A production version of the i MiEV SPORT AIR concept is expected to hit the Japanese market in 2010, and pricing has yet to be announced.
