Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is jumping on the eco-bandwagon with the debut of the i-MiEV, their environmentally friendly, battery operated vehicle. The highway-capable vehicle has already achieved success over seas, but Bloomington car dealers will likely have to wait until 2015, when the vehicle is estimated to hit U.S. markets, to share such success. With the sustainable mobility trend at an all time high, Mitsubishi couldn’t have chosen a better time to make history with the first mass-produced, all electric vehicle.

The prevalence of electric vehicles, however, is nothing new to the U.S. market. Numerous other automakers have produced vehicles fueled by renewable energy, but the electrification of American highways has yet to be accomplished. So it seems logical to wonder, how does Mitsubishi plan to electrify American highways if it hasn’t already been done?

Much like other electric vehicles, the i-MiEV’s electric motor and compact lithium ion batteries power the vehicle, but it is the vehicle’s quick charging system that distinguishes it from the competition. Such progressive technology, which was recognized at the 2009 Tokyo International Motor Show with the “Most Advanced Technology” award, allows the battery to reach 80% capacity in 30 minutes.

Currently, drivers in Japan can stop at one of approximately 180 charging stations to recharge their car. When the i-MiEV comes to the U.S., drivers will have the option to stop at one of an estimated 150 – 250 charging stations that will be built, although Normal IL used Galant dealers believe that drivers will most frequently take advantage of a convenient at-home charging station or a portable battery charger.

Limited drive range is perhaps the biggest drawback to other manufacturer’s electric vehicles and is ultimately what has prevented these cars from already electrifying American highways. However, with the i-MiEV’s extended drive range due to its quick recharging time and speeds that can reach 80 miles per hour, it’s fair to say that Mitsubishi’s plan to electrify American highways is not only feasible, but inevitable.

A recent test drive in Northern California revealed a flawless drive performance, impressive stability and a surprisingly spacious interior that complement the i-MiEV’s prolonged drive range and eco-friendly appeal. The vehicle’s sustainable, all-electric performance not only eliminates the pollution that non-electric vehicles emit, but also saves money at the gas pump. The i-MiEV’s highway capabilities make the vehicle a practical, proficient alternative to other electric and non-electric vehicles.

Although there’s no word whether or not it’ll show its face in the U.S. anytime soon (or ever), the Mitsubishi Concept PX- MiEV would make for an interesting ride. And to be sure, we will see some of the innovative technologies grace Mitsubishi models in the years to come.

This new half-SUV, half-crossover vehicle, dubbed a CUV, comes equipped with Mitsubishi’s new Plug-in Hybrid System and operates in three different drive modes: all-electric EV, on-the-move generating EV, and Motor + Engine. The vehicle automatically switches between the modes depending on the CUV’s battery life and outside conditions.  This in turn reveals an extremely efficient fuel economy, expected to be better than some high-end hybrids. And that’s only the beginning.

It’s appearance is very sleek and powerful: “Solid, Safety, and Simple were the keywords that drove the development of the MITSUBISHI Concept PX-MiEV ‘s exterior design.” It looks like a combination of the Mercedes ML SUV, the Nissan Murano and Toyota Highlander- all wrapped in to one. In terms of the interior, the Concept PX-MiEV makes for a comfortable environment for both driver and passengers. Its lined with nubuck leather and has an illuminated center console monitor and door trim that is said to “create a serene ambiance”.  The Eco Drive function is also available for drivers to switch on, bettering energy conservation and reduce power consumption.

Inside this Mitsubishi concept is a 1.6-liter MIVEC gasoline engine and lithium-ion battery with great charging capabilities. To start, its owner is able to preset charging times to periods where electricity is cheaper- at night for example-and when away from home, it can be plugged in to a “quick-charging station” at random facilities like shopping malls. In these instances, the battery will charge for approximately 30 minutes and automatically quit charging when the battery fuel reaches 80%.

Another unique trait of this CUV is its electronically- controlled air suspension, which allows the driver to control the desired height of the vehicle with the flip of a switch. This provides better stabilization, control, and smoothness over a variety of terrains, and also can provide ease when loading or unloading the vehicle in the “low” mode/height.

With its incredible technological advancements and innovations, we hope the Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV makes its way to the U.S. market. If not, we still have the wonderful standard Mitsubishi lineup to choose from. Visit O’Brien Mitsubishi, Bloomington Mitsubishi dealer, and test-drive a Normal IL Mitsubishi Endeavor or a Normal IL used Galant. With great competitive pricing and a knowledgeable sales team, O’Brien is the way to go for a new or used Mitsubishi. Stop in today!