Mitsubishi to Launch MINICAB-MiEV Electric Van in Japan
Mitsubishi Motors will introduce the MINICAB-MiEV, a minicar-class commercial electric van with two battery options and up to 150 km range, at Japanese dealerships from 8 December 2011.
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation will launch the MINICAB-MiEV, a new electric van aimed at commercial users, across Japan from 8 December 2011. The MINICAB-MiEV is Mitsubishi’s second next-generation electric vehicle, following the i-MiEV, and is based on the MINICAB Van platform. Prices before incentives range from 2,400,000 to 2,971,000 yen, with government subsidies reducing the entry cost to 1,730,000 yen for the base model.
The MINICAB-MiEV is offered with a choice of two lithium-ion battery packs. The 10.5 kWh version provides a 100 km range (JC08 test cycle), while the 16.0 kWh model extends this to 150 km. Both variants use the same electric motor and core drivetrain components as the i-MiEV, allowing Mitsubishi to leverage proven technology and reduce development costs. The van is designed to meet the needs of urban commercial operators, with a 350 kg payload capacity and a cargo area matching the petrol-powered MINICAB CD.
Commercial focus and running costs
Mitsubishi is targeting business users who require a compact, low-emissions delivery vehicle. The company highlights the running cost advantage over petrol vans, with electricity for charging expected to be significantly cheaper than fuel. The van can be charged at business premises or at home, reducing downtime and eliminating trips to fuel stations. Mitsubishi will offer the MINICAB-MiEV for sale via maintenance lease, credit or cash purchase, mirroring the approach used for the i-MiEV.
The MINICAB-MiEV is intended for use in environments where low noise and zero tailpipe emissions are valuable, such as food distribution, flower delivery or operations in areas where petrol vehicles are restricted. Its quiet operation and lack of vibration are expected to appeal to operators transporting delicate goods or working in residential districts during unsocial hours.
Technical details and equipment
Both MINICAB-MiEV variants feature a high-capacity battery pack under the floor and the motor, inverter and other electric components beneath the cargo compartment, preserving load space. Standard equipment includes ABS, traction control and a pedestrian alert system that emits an audible warning at speeds up to 25 km/h. The drive selector offers three modes: D (normal), Eco (energy-saving) and B (enhanced regenerative braking).
- 200V AC (15A) charging cable supplied as standard
- 100V AC (10A) cable and quick charging connector available as options
- Three body colours: White Solid, Cool Silver Metallic, Titanium Grey Metallic
- Optional decals highlighting the EV nature of the vehicle
Mitsubishi aims to sell 4,000 MINICAB-MiEVs by the end of March 2012. For the following 12 months, the company targets a combined 50,000 EV sales, including both the i-MiEV and MINICAB-MiEV, as well as OEM versions supplied to other manufacturers. Since the i-MiEV’s launch in 2009, Mitsubishi has sold around 17,000 electric vehicles globally, including units supplied to PSA Peugeot Citroën.
