Mitsubishi – Page 8 – Automobiles Review

Mitsubishi G4 Concept Compact Sedan Debuts In Bangkok [TEASER]

Mitsubishi G4 Concept Compact Sedan is a new new-generation compact sedan which is going to make a world debut at the 34th Bangkok International Motor Show on 25th of March. It will be exhibited next to Concept GR-HEV3 concept and FR4 sport utility truck powered by a diesel-hybrid drivetrain.

In addition, the Thailand-built production models which are going to be seen at the Show are the Mirage global compact car, the Lancer EX mid-size sedan, Triton pickup and Pajero Sport SUV.

The G4 Conecept is planned to be produced globally in the future. This Mitsubishi concept utilizes a high-clarity brilliant-cut diamond motif in the design of the front grill, headlamps and rear combination lamps which are creating a frontal visage with a commanding presence and a tail end leaving a sharp impression as it drives off into the distance.

In addition, the model has great styling attributes such as short nose which delivers an excellent view and superior maneuverability, graceful and flowing side proportions. In addition, it has been also unveiled that the model will have generous interior space, very sleek aerodynamics, and a dynamic character line visible at the rear.

Furthermore, the Mitsubishi Concept G4 will deliver outstanding fuel efficiency thanks to its RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body. This is the lightest body in its class due to the extensive use of high-tensile steel. What is more, the model will be powered by a lightweight and compact 1.2-liter MIVEC engine matched to a CVT with sub-geartrain.

The fun of driving is ensured thanks to the lighter weight. Adding to this are the great handling and stability which this concept delivers, as well as the comfortable ride. In addition, the comfort of the occupants is additionally improved by the high hip point and large door openings which facilitate entry and exit as well as by its generous rear seat leg space.

Source: Mitsubishi

March 11, 2013

Nissan And Mitsubishi Are Joining Forces In New Minicar Project

Nissan and Mitsubishi are now joining forces and going to produce new minicars for the Japanese market. The names of the new vehicles are Nissan DAYZ and Nissan DAYZ Highway STAR which are going to go on sale in June 2013. In addition, a result of this project will be also the production of Mitsubishi eK Wagon and eK Custom.

The new models will deliver great attributes such as excellent fuel economy and a roomy cabin. Both brand identities of Nissan and Mitsubishi are kept but the eventual outcome is innovative and different designs for their respective minicar.

Nissan’s new models will be recognized under the name of DAYZ, where the “Z” indicates a new way of looking at delivering value to owners as they go about their normal days. The aim is to change standard “everyday” activities into days with added delight by owning one of these cars.

Both DAYZ and DAYZ Highway STAR will deliver driver and occupants dynamic design and quality interior space. On the other hand Mitsubishi Motors are working on creating a second new minicar, a “super height” (tall) wagon, which is planned for launching in early 2014.

Source: Nissan

March 11, 2013

Steel Grey Stealth Fighter: Schwabenfolia Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X

Schwabenfolia Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X or the Steel Grey Stealth Fighter is an exceptional tuning! Originally the Evo X has a two liters displacement which generates 295 horsepower equal to 217 kW.

The tuned Mitsubishi now has an enhanced performance to wide-awake 390 horsepower (287 kW) and 520 Nm (384 kW) of maximum torque. They are possible thanks to the Turbo – back installed 3” exhaust system from Invidia, named Q300.

In addition, this incredible amount of power is forwarded on the road by means of Yamato-rims in 18 inch by Enkei, on which Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Semi-Slicks are installed.

But the customization does not stop here. The original white exterior color of the Evo X was foiled with painstaking work theme foliation. Hence it got the nick-name the Stealth Fighter. In addition, the front grid frames, the air intake of the bonnet and the sides of the impressive rear spoiler shine in Toxic Orange Metallic.

On the other hand, the middle part spanning the trunk lid and the roof with indicated emergency hatch in matt red are kept in Black Brushed Steel. What is more, in the middle of the vertical part of the tailgate a raised Hello-Kitty-AK47 can be seen.

Above and behind the headlamps one can see notes, as well as additional labelling on the doors. Additionally, there is also added an advice on the fuel cap and on the back „corners” of the vehicle, and “warning” next to the exhaust. At last the 300 adhered „screw heads” is what catches the attention immediately.

Source: Miranda Media

February 19, 2013

Mitsubishi Concept GR-HEV And Concept CA-MiEV With Debut in Geneva

Mitsubishi is exploring the full electro-mobility engineering palette – Pure Electric (EV), Hybrid Electric (HEV), Plug-in Hybrid Electric (PHEV) – hinted at through two brand new concept vehicles which will be officially revealed at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, next to the already teased Outlander PHEV.

The first concept that is being teased is the Mitsubishi Concept GR-HEV – The Sport Utility Hybrid Truck. It is a large, tough and sporty vehicle. Here a Hybrid (HEV) technology is applied for the first time to a one-tonne pickup truck.

“Dual Design” vehicle is a creation of Mitsubishi which includes an all-new exclusive HEV solution, featuring a Clean Diesel engine and electric motors. Simpler and more affordable than either EV or PHEV, HEV is deemed best suited to the heavy-duty daily requirements of pickup truck users.

The same concept also includes full-time 4WD technology, featuring Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) integrated vehicle dynamics control system driveline to deliver high stability traction and driving performance under all road conditions. As a matter of fact, this model is developed in such way that it emits CO2 below 149 g/km.

The next teased vehicle is the Mitsubishi Concept CA-MiEV – The Suburban EV. With this concept, Mitsubishi shows its consideration towards taking pure EVs beyond a mostly urban environment with a next generation compact EV.

The CA-MiEV have high density batteries, advanced aerodynamics and will offer 300 km driving range, perfectly suited for suburban and country daily life. Further innovative real-life features include magnetic resonance wireless charging technology, smartphone activated functions.

Source: Mitsubishi

February 13, 2013

2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Teased

2014-Mitsubishi-Outlander-651 The third teaser for today is by the brand Mitsubishi, which is going to show two new vehicles at the Los Angeles Auto Show. A debut will make the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander and the eye-catching 2013 Outlander Sport Limited Edition.

The teased vehicle is the first and it includes a fresh new design direction which brings the attention on the exterior aerodynamic efficiency. Even further, the brand revealed that the SUV will be equipped with new engine of the advanced MIVEC continuously-variable valve lift timing system.

The latter will enhance the fuel economy, which will make the 2014 Outlander among the most fuel-efficient compact SUV with 7-passenger seating as standard. Next, the interior has been upgraded as well. The vehicle includes new technologically-advanced features such as the Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

This brings the 2014 Outlander to a new level regarding efficiency, safety, comfort and convenience. The next vehicle which will make a North American debut is the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Limited Edition. It will definitely show off its dynamic-looking forms, blackout side mirrors, center bumper, wheel arch trim and roof rails, along with dark-chrome alloy wheels.

Here a new engine balancer shaft provides quicker and smoother acceleration. Additionally this also increases the performance, but still the model keeps maintaining an outstanding 31 mpg highway. Rounding out the package are a new 6-way adjustable power driver seat, aluminum brake and accelerator pedals, leather parking brake lever and available special two-tone Dove Grey and Black leather seating surfaces.

Source: Mitsubishi

November 16, 2012

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV – The World’s first Plug-in hybrid SUV

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV - Front Angle Mitsubishi has released more details about the Outlander PHEV, which will make its official debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show.

The Outlander PHEV uses MMC’s own Plug-in Hybrid EV System powertrain derived from 100% electric systems used on the i-MiEV and other MMC all-electric vehicles. The Outlander PHEV is the world’s first plug-in hybrid SUV, and brings together the environmental performance and quietness that distinguish EVs while delivering the utility and on- and off-road performance associated with 4WD sport utility vehicles and the cruising range of a conventional ICE-powered vehicle.

It is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine and two electric motors. The overall range is up to 880 km (547 miles) and 55 km (34 miles) on electricity alone.

In terms of efficiency, Mitsubishi expects a combined fuel economy rating 1.6 litres per 100km, which is 144 mpg US.

The Outlander PHEV has Three Drive Modes for Optimal Efficiency.

EV Drive Mode

EV Drive Mode is an all-electric mode in which the front and rear motors drive the vehicle using only electricity from the drive battery. With zero on-road gasoline consumption and zero CO2 emissions the driver can enjoy quiet and very eco-friendly performance in this mode.

Series Hybrid Mode

In Series Hybrid Mode the gasoline engine operates as a generator supplying electricity to the electric motors. The system switches to this mode when the remaining charge in the battery falls below a predetermined level and when more powerful performance is required, such as accelerating to pass a vehicle or climbing a steep gradient such as a slope.

Parallel Hybrid Mode

In Parallel Hybrid Mode the gasoline engine provides most of the motive power, assisted by the electric motors as required. The system switches to this mode for higher-speed driving when the gasoline engine operates at peak efficiency.

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV - Hybrid Mode

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV - Side View

Source: Mitsubishi

September 5, 2012

2012 Mitsubishi L200 Trojan – price £17 999

Mitsubishi has announced the new 2012 L200 Trojan Double Cab. The 12MY Trojan hits the market and is already available in 113 Mitsubishi dealerships nationwide. Competitively priced, the Trojan offers a great combination of comprehensive specification, striking good looks and excellent value for money.

2012 L200 Trojan is available in two colours; Aztec Red (Solid) and Cosmos Black (Pearlescent). The prices start at £17,999 for L200 2.5 DI-D Trojan Double Cab Manual and go up to £19 324 for L200 2.5 DI-D Trojan Double Cab Manual (Leather). Metallic paint will cost an additional £410 excluding VAT.

The 12MY Trojan Double Cab is powered by a 175bhp and 400Nm 2.5 liter diesel.

The vehicle has a 12-month / 9,000 mile service interval programme, includes pan-European breakdown and accident management service. The Mitsubishi Service Plan (MSP) is available at £562.50 Excluding VAT.

L200 Trojan Specification:

The 12MY Trojan arrives as a standard bed derivative and will feature the following high level of equipment as standard:

16” Alloy Wheels
Rear Diff Lock
Super Select 4WD
CD Player with MP3
Multifunction Trip Computer
Climate Control
Rear Electric Windows
Chrome Electric Door Mirrors with Heater / Folding Function
Colour Coded Wheel Arch Extensions
Privacy Glass
Chrome Outer Door Handles
CAT 1 Alarm System

Source: Mitsubishi

July 5, 2012

Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian Black Special Edition offers style in Black

Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian Black is the latest limited and special edition model from the brand. It has a striking appearance, powerful on-road stance and stylish features.

In fact, the added by Mitsubishi stylish accessories come in the form of a black satin roof, sports grille, resin guard, wing mirrors, door handles, fuel filler cap, light bezels, rear bar and side steps. All of these features are the reason for the modification of this amazing special edition vehicle.

Furthermore, the L200 Barbarian runs on moody black 17” alloy wheels and will surprise its customers with its all new carbon effect leather seats.

The L200 BLACK is available in the following trim colourd: Starlight Silver (Metallic), Eisen Grey (Pearlescent), Aztec Red (Solid), Sapphire Blue (Metallic), Polar White (Solid), Cosmos Black (Pearlescent), Granite Brown (Metallic).

This Mitsubishi vehicle can be equipped with both manual and automatic transmission and moreover it includes a wide range of additional equipment to the standard Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian. In particular the Black special edition features: Black 17” alloy wheels, Black wrapped roof, Black front resin guard, Black fog lamp surrounds, Black front sports grille, Black wing mirrors, Black door handles and recess covers, Black side steps, Black fuel filler cap, Black tailgate handle cover, Black rear bar; Stunning new embossed leather design; Outside Temperature/Direction/MPG display panel – a conveniently located complement to the Kenwood system; Barbarian Black side decals.

Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian Black Special Edition starting price is £23 899.

Source: Mitsubishi

May 28, 2012

Mitsubishi i-MiEV Evolution and Mitsubishi i all electric vehicle to compete in legendary race

Mitsubishi i-MiEV Evolution and Mitsubishi i all electric vehicle are going to take part in the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. These two vehicles were specially prepared for the competition. Nonetheless they will also enter a regular production.

First, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV Evolution utilizes the same motor, drive battery and other major components as the production i. Moreover, it was developed in order to showcase Mitsubishi’s advanced EV control and EV component technologies.

It has a racing-specific body which uses a tube-frame chassis and a carbon fiber cowl. Other features of the vehicle also have a reduced weight. The goal here of course is to lessen the overall mass of the car and to improve aerodynamic performance.

More importantly, this car comprises of one motor which drives the front wheels and two – driving the rear wheels. Hence, the EV’s four-wheel-drive system ensures great motive performance and handling.

Mitsubishi will also put in practice their technical knowledge in the development of future EV models with the aim of superior durability and reliability.

Mitsubishi i-MiEV Evolution Specifications

L x W x H (mm)		4341 x 1900 x 1339
Occupants		1
Drivetrain		4-wheel drive
Motors	Number	3 (1 front, 2 rear)
	Max. output (kW)	240 (80 kW x 3)
Drive battery	Rated capacity (kWh)	35
Chassis		Specially-designed tube frame
Cowl		Carbon fibre
Tyres		245/40R18

Secondly, for this event the production of Mitsubishi i has been completely transformed with the help of more aerodynamic front bumper, roll bars and other safety equipment.

Mitsubishi i Spcifications

L x W x H (mm)		3675 (+280) x 1585 (+110) x 1615 (+5)
Occupants		4
Drivetrain		Rear wheel drive
Motors	Number	1
	Max. output (kW/rpm)	49 (+2) / 3,000 – 6,000
Drive battery	Rated capacity (kWh)	16
Tyres		F: 145/65/R15 R: 175/60 (+5)/R15

Source: Mitsubishi

May 19, 2012

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport now upgraded

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport compact crossover now receives numerous new styling improvements and design features.

The compact crossover comes to offer composed handling and a comfortable and enjoyable ride. It has spacious interior with roomy seating for 5 adults. It is now equipped with wide array of welcome standard amenities and delivers an exemplary degree of both performance and fuel-efficiency In fact, this stylish crossover is currently the best-selling car in Mitsubishi Motors‘ North American model lineup.

In details, the vehicle is propelled by a powerful 148 horsepower (109 kW) DOHC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which is equipped with Mitsubishi’s advanced MIVEC variable valve-timing technology. Thank to it the 2013 Outlander Sport garners an impressive EPA fuel mileage rating of 31 mpg highway.

Other technologies which add further to the fuel-efficiency are the following: the advanced Electric Power Steering (EPS), gear shift indicator (5-speed manual transmission-equipped cars) or an Eco indicator (CVT-equipped vehicles) light, a higher-efficiency alternator and a wind tunnel-tested body design for wind-cheating aerodynamic performance.

Furthermore, the entry-level front-wheel drive 2013 Outlander Sport ES model includes the following features: air conditioning with micron filter; cruise control; power windows, mirrors and door locks; a 4 speaker 140-watt AM/FM/CD/MP3 sound system with the FUSE Handsfree Link System™ that allows voice-activated operation of an iPod® and a cell phone; intermittent rear wiper; rear LED combination tail lights; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; anti-theft security system and a helpful multi-information monitor.

The standard safety features, which are inherent for any model include: Active Stability Control (ASC) with Hill Start Assist (HSA); anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist; Traction Control Logic (TCL); and an advanced front air bag SRS with passenger weight and driver’s seat position sensors, front seat-mounted side-impact air bags, and curtain side air bags with roll-over sensors.

However, the 5-speed manual transmission which is included on the ES trim level as a standard, for other trim levels comes as an option. It features high-tech Continuously-Variable Transmission (CVT) with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

More to be offered from the The 2013 Outlander Sport ES is the 4WD. It also adds sumptuous amenities including; Super-wide beam High-Intensity Discharge (S-HID) headlights; One-touch Start/Stop (OSS) engine switch; automatic climate control; FAST-key passive entry system; heated front seats; rain-sensing wipers and a dynamic 6 speaker audio system with SiriusXM™ satellite radio.

The Outlander Sport SE is available with either 2WD or with a driver-selected, electronically-controlled 4WD system – the same all-wheel drive system found on the Mitsubishi Outlander SE mid-sized crossover vehicle.

Changes to the 2013 Outlander Sport include the following:

Exterior

Front Fascia – Redesigned front bumper section; New grille styling; New fog lamp design.
Rear Bumper – New rear bumper design.
Side Sills – Side sills now black in color to match the lower sections of the redesigned front & rear bumpers.
Handsome 18-in. alloy wheels now standard on all on all trim levels for the 2013 model.

Interior

New interior fabrics; New chrome accent molding for the front doors; New All Wheel Control (AWC) push button switch.

Chassis

Revised rear multi-link suspension for improved handling and ride comfort.

Drivetrain

Improved Continuously-Variable transmission (CVT) calibration for improved acceleration performance and smoother shifting feeling.

Exterior Color Availability

New hues White Pearl and Quick Silver join Laguna Blue, Labrador Black Pearl, Mercury Gray and Rally Red.

Key Specifications

Wheelbase: 105.1 in.
Length: 169.1 in.
Height: 64.2 in.
Width: 69.7 in.
Engine: DOHC MIVEC 2.0-liter l4
Horsepower: 148 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 145 lb.-ft. @ 4,200 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual or Sportronic® continuously-variable transmission (CVT) with steering column mounted paddle shifters
Dynamics: Anti-Lock Brake System w/ Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) & Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist (HSA), Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL) and Electric Power Steering (EPS)
Wheels: 18 x 7 in. aluminum alloy
Maximum Tires: 225/55R18 (SE) all-season radials

Fuel Economy: 31 mpg highway

Major Standard Features:

Air conditioning with pollen filter
Steering column mounted paddle shifters (CVT only)
Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
Chrome grille surround
Hill Start Assist (HSA)
Active Stability Control (ASC)
Heated outside mirrors
Advanced front air bag SRS with passenger weight and driver’s seat position sensors, front seat mounted side-impact air bags and curtain side air bags with roll-over sensors
Driver knee airbag
Electric Power Steering (EPS)
60/40 split folding and reclining high-back rear seats with armrest and cupholder
Remote keyless entry with panic feature
Center room lamp
High-contrast gauge meters with full-color LCD Multi-Information Display
FUSE Handsfree Link System™ that allows voice-activated operation of an iPod® and a cell phone
Rear LED combination tail lamps
Cruise control with steering-wheel mounted controls
Tilt and telescopic steering wheel6-way manually adjustable driver’s seat
Power door locks and side view mirrors
Power windows with driver’s one-touch up/down
Steering-wheel mounted audio and cruise control
Two 12-volt power outlets

SE adds over ES:

Super-wide beam High-Intensity Discharge (S-HID) headlights 6 speaker premium audio system with SiriusXM™ satellite radio with free 3-months subscription
FAST-key passive entry system
One-touch Start/Stop (OSS) engine switch Large center console with sliding armrest
Heated front seats
Rain-sensing wipers
Fog lamps with chrome bezel
Chrome exterior beltline molding
Climate control system with full-auto air conditioning

Outlander Sport Options:

Navigation w/Rearview Camera adds: 40GB HDD Navigation with Music server and Real-Time Traffic (RDS), rearview camera monitor.
Premium Package adds: Panoramic glass roof with adjustable LED mood lighting, roof rails, 710-watt Rockford-Fosgate® audio system with 9 speakers including 10-inch dual-voice coil subwoofer with Punch® control, In-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 compatible changer, digital signal processor, 3-band equalization and speed compensated volume, auto dimming rearview mirror, rear camera system.
Exterior Sport Package adds: Rear spoiler, front corner extensions with LED daytime running lights, rear garnish, front lower garnish and aluminum-alloy fuel door.
Interior Package adds: Gloss black audio and shift panel overlay, aluminum and leather combination shift knob.
Illumination LED Package adds: LED interior room lamps, LED floor and tailgate lamps.
Protection Package adds: Aluminum scuff plates, tailgate protector, rear bumper guard and front and rear mudguards.
Cargo Package adds: Reversible carpet/rubber cargo mat, cargo net, cargo shelf board.

Source: Mitsubishi

April 6, 2012

Alternative Fuels: Propane, Electricity, Ammonia and Liquid Nitrogen

Yesterday we discussed two of the most popular alternative fuels – biodiesel and alcohol fuel. As we already became familiar, both are efficient not only in ecological terms, but also in economical ones. Given that the concerns around the global warming are escalating, I presume that in the future, there will be a great necessity for vehicles which emit less CO2 or are with zero emissions. Hence, this leads to the though that even more alternative ways for propulsion are going to arise in the near future. As we all can see, even now on the market, there is a big expansion of electric vehicles and hybrid ones. In addition, the brands are competing in the development of vehicles which are both fuel efficient and ecologically preserving.

First, let’s review one popular alternative fuel: propane. It is a compressed natural gas which almost everybody has used in their homes. However, it is popular as an alternative fuel too. It is a by-product of natural gas processing and petroleum refining. The process is called cracking. What is commonly used as vehicle fuel is actually a mixture of propane and butane, or more familiar as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG or LP gas). It is not necessary to state the environmental benefits of its use and the fuel efficiency it delivers for they are already very well known. Take a look at some models, which are using this type of fuel:

Extremely utilized way of alternative vehicle propulsion is through the means of electricity. The good news is that although the EVs were very popular more than hundred years ago, their development now flourishes. Moreover, it seems that the automotive world is in a stage of competition. The different brands are investing nowadays more than ever in the development of technologies, using electricity as alternative fuel. The EVs use electricity which is stored in battery in the car and don’t emit CO2. Although, they aren’t as fast as their gasoline powered rivals, they are considered perfect for city driving. Some of the electric vehicles, already on the market:

Did you know that ammonia can be used as fuel? In fact, ammonia has been proposed as a practical alternative to fossil fuel for internal combustion engines back in the beginning of the last century. In addition, it can be successfully used in already existing vehicles, which engines need only slight modification. Ammonia is beneficial in terms of zero emissions and economical efficiency.

Liquid nitrogen is another type of emissionless alternative fuel. Liquid nitrogen vehicles are comparable in many ways to the electric vehicles. However, they use liquid nitrogen to store the energy instead of batteries as it is in the case of EVs. They have several advantages that should be mentioned. First of all, they can be powered through the electrical grid (which contributes to their eco-friendliness). Secondly, there wouldn’t be any transportation of the fuel, since the power is delivered from the electrical grid. This is also economically viable. Next, the maintenance is also at low costs. At last but not least, the liquid nitrogen vehicles don’t have the degradation problems of the battery systems.

To sum up there are many different types of alternative fuels and nowadays even more are developed and considered for commercial use. Of course the main reason for this expansion of research is the negative environmental impact which the gasoline powered vehicles are causing, due to their high levels of CO2 emissions in the atmosphere. Undoubtedly, in the near future the commercial use of electric cars or hybrid ones won’t be considered as extravagancy but as a high level of environmental awareness.

Vehicles with Zero Emissions - the future of the automotive world? — Vehicles with Zero Emissions – the future of the automotive world

March 4, 2012

Some facts about Electric Vehicles

Behind the history of the electric vehicle are more than hundred years. Yes, I was surprised to find out this too. In particular, their history began in the middle years of the 19th century. However, at this time it was really costly to afford such automobile. Moreover, compared to internal combustion vehicles, the electric ones had much lower speed. Gradually this led to their extinction worldwide. Nowadays what we experience is quite the opposite. As we can see ourselves on the market are gradually being launched vehicles, which are powered by alternative fuel or are electric ones. This of course has to do with environmental issues.

The hydrocarbon fueled vehicles seem to cause great damage to the environment, because of the gases they emit. Or in other words, the automotive industry is now trying to take some precautions for the evil done, develop and promote environmental friendly vehicles and raise the global awareness in this particular area. We all want to live in less contaminated and better world, don’t we?

Electric car from early 20th century charging

In fact, for the first time in history, electric cars became popular after the mid-nineteenth century. Then the electricity was actually a strongly preferred method for automobile propulsion. Back in 1987 the electric cars found their first commercial use in the United States. For instance, the taxies in New York City were electric. They were manufactured by the Philadelphian Electric Carriage and Wagon Company. During the twentieth century the main manufacturers of electric vehicles in the U.S. were Anthony Electric, Baker, Columbia, Anderson, Edison, Riker, Milburn and many more.

Although that at this time the electric cars produced relatively slow speed, they had some advantages over their rivals. What I have in mind here is that they produced less noise, vibration and smell, which were a characteristic of gasoline powered vehicles. In addition, they did not require gear changes. And hence the electric car became famous among people living in the city, who could use their optimum potential. Furthermore, the electric powered vehicles didn’t require manual start as oppose to gasoline ones and were easier to drive, which lead their popularity growth among women.

And even back in the beginning of the twentieth century the electric car was considered the cleaner, quieter and of course the more fuel-efficient car, in comparison to the gasoline vehicle. However, by the 1930s the latter one became the “bigger star” and more importantly – what made it more popular was its lower price. They also developed far greater speed to their equivalent electrics. And adding to all this – the invention of the electric starter by Charles Kattering (in 1912) – gasoline cars became easier to operate. Then came the use of the muffler, which reduced significantly the noise they produced.

The total eradication of the electric automobile from the world was also possible due to the mass production of the gasoline Henry Ford vehicles, which even were at an extraordinary price – more than six time cheaper than the electric ones. After this expansion, no one really remembered the electric cars …

Until the late 1970’s and early 1980’s when the world experienced the first big energy crises. This led to the renewed attention on alternative fuel and electric vehicles. As a result, in the beginning of the 1990’s, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) set the requirements for the development of more fuel-efficient and lower-emissions vehicles.

The highest aim here was the production of zero-emissions vehicles. The electric ones were what they were looking for. Then the automotive world came to see some great electric models, such as Chrysler TEVan, Ford Ranger EV pickup truck, Honda EV Plus hatchback, or Toyota RAV4 EV.

However, the market wasn’t fully prepared to embrace this new ecologically orientated step, so the models were taken off production in the end. Another recession followed in the 2000’s, which lead to the increased need for smaller cars, hybrid cars and of course electric ones. One of the most famous nowadays electric cars manufacturer Tesla Motors, in 2004 began the development of the Tesla Roadster, which was firstly launched on the market four years later. Nowadays we have many examples of electric cars, developed and produced by famous carmakers. Such are: Mitsubishi i MiEV, Nissan Leaf, Mercedes-Benz Vito E-Cell, Smart ED and many more.

Nissan LEAF

To sum up, when the electric vehicles were invented, they seemed to be the best choice of and for the future. Moreover, the electric car produces no pollution to the environment and can be the greatest choice for the city dwellers, who are concerned about the world around them and want to make a positive change.

People won’t loose from comfort, road handling, safety, performance or durability, because the electric vehicles are similar to the gasoline powered ones. Another big advantage is also their low cost to operate and more importantly they have the potential to be more reliable because they include fewer parts and mature technology.

February 25, 2012

Tag: Mitsubishi