New Mitsubishi I-MiEV

The i MiEV is a zero-emissions vehicle. Even when taking into account CO2 emissions at the power plants which generate the power needed for charging the car, it emits approximately 30% of the CO2 of a petrol city car.

The cost per mile to drive the i MiEV is less than 6% than that of a comparable petrol vehicle – and this is before you’ve taken into account zero road tax (VED) and free parking.

Strong acceleration is achieved through a compact and highly efficient permanent magnet synchronous motor, which generates high torque at low speeds. In the real world this makes pulling away from junctions in and around town and overtaking other traffic a pleasure, not a chore.

Because the vehicle uses an electric motor, free from the vertical vibration associated with petrol and diesel engines, it runs extremely quietly and smoothly. There is almost no noise, vibration or harshness, which emphasises the refined quality of the car's all-round performance.

Using the on-board charger, the vehicle can be charged with a standard UK 240V domestic power source. All you need is a three pin plug socket and the car will charge itself from completely flat to 100% in between 6 and 7 hours. In addition, when quick-chargers (currently being developed by power companies) are available, it will be possible to charge the vehicle from flat to 80% full in 30 minutes.