2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV comes to Canada

Having already proven itself in a Canadian coast-to-coast drive last year, the i-MiEV is now available for sale in Canada. (Photo: Mitsubishi)

affordable electric vehicle in Canada. In all, 77 of the new Mitsubishis will be available at dealerships across the country in the coming weeks. The manufacturer's suggested retail price for the standard model is $32,998.

"Just over a year ago we celebrated the completion of the Clean Across Canada Tour in Vancouver with our Japanese i-MiEV and today we celebrate the arrival of our first 77 North American i-MiEVs to Canadian soil," said Shin Fujioka, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada Inc. (MMSCAN). "We have been working closely with several partners across Canada over the past year and know our EV technology is ready for the Canadian urban commuters."

A rear-mounted, permanent magnet synchronous electric motor provides power for the i-MiEV. It's claimed to be quieter, sportier and more powerful than the turbocharged 660cc engine in the gasoline-powered Mitsubishi i, upon which the i-MiEV is based. Power is routed to the rear wheels and takes the vehicle on to a top speed of 130 km/h.

In Premium trim, the i-MiEV features all the comforts North American consumers have come to expect,  including high-end audio with Bluetooth connectivity, leather-wrapped steering wheel, keyless entry and alloy wheels. (Photo: Mitsubishi)

Standard equipment includes a heated driver's seat, power windows, fog lamps, air conditioning, remote keyless entry and a three-way charging system among other features. In Premium trim, the i-MiEV includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel, 15-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity and a 360-watt premium audio system. Fuel economy is rated at 112 MPGe (2.1 Le/100 km), and that has allowed the i-MiEV to score highest in the U.S.-based Environmental Protection Agency's "Fuel Economy Leaders: 2012 Model Year" rankings.

In Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia, consumers will be able to take advantage of subsidies toward the purchase of a new i-MiEV. For Ontarians, the subsidy is a whopping $8,231 while British Columbians save $5,000 and those in Quebec are expected to save $7,769. This subsidies make for a net MSRP of $24,767 in Ontario, $27,998 in British Columbia and an expected $25,229 in Quebec.

The arrival of Mitsubishi's i-MiEV will finally bring more competition to the small but ambitious electric vehicle segment. Although just 77 2012 i-MiEVs will initially arrive in Canada, expect more to be available in the new year.©(Copyright Canadian Auto Press)]]>