In June 2008, MCC and Peugeot commenced a feasibility study of the development, manufacture and use of an electric powertrain for small urban vehicles. The companies reached an understanding to allow PSA to partner with MMC to develop an electric vehicle for Europe based on Mitsubishi’s innovative electric vehicle the i MiEV, which is inspired by the "i" minicar. The new electric vehicle called the “i0n” will be manufactured by MMC and sold under the Peugeot brand in parallel with Mitsubishi’s own European i MiEV. A Peugeot-Citroen spokesman said it aims to sell 25,000 of the vehicles annually.
Driving electric vehicle technology forward through cooperation
This new step will be mutually beneficial since the collaboration of MMC and PSA Peugeot Citroën will ease and accelerate the introduction of their electric vehicles in the European market.
The PSA Peugeot Citroën Group is the largest global manufacturer of electric vehicles to date, with more than 10,000 units sold, and has brought to this project its expertise in the field of electric powertrains. The Group hopes the agreement will enable it to maintain its leadership in manufacturing environmentally-friendly cars.
For MMC, this project is consistent with its worldwide electric vehicle strategy. Currently involved in testing and promotional activities in Japan, New Zealand, the United States and across Europe, the i MiEV will be launched in Japan during the summer of 2009. In parallel to the 2010 European launch of the i MiEV, MMC is examining several markets including the US for the rollout of the electric vehicle.
The i0n – suited to urban mobility
The i0n targets both retail and fleet customers (authorities, local organisations and large companies, etc.) due its specifications which are particularly suited for use in an urban environment.
Its performance and 130 km operating range is obtained in particular due to the use of lithium-ion batteries, which will provide an efficient response to the challenges of urban mobility and respect for the environment.
The i0n is being presented to the world for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany between 17 and 27 September.
For additional information:
