Cheaper Mitsubishi i-MiEV Unveiled - but Not for U.S.

Just the Facts:

• Mitsubishi on Wednesday launched a cheaper version of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV and an uplevel G version but told Inside Line that they are only for Japan.
• The cheaper Mitsubishi i-MiEV M version has a sticker price of $32,140 and a shorter range of 75 miles, compared with 100 miles for the previous model.
• The Mitsubishi i-MiEV G version — which starts at $46,975 — has LED headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and such options as "pre-activated air-conditioning."

TOKYO — Mitsubishi on Wednesday launched a cheaper, remodeled version of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV and an uplevel G version but told Inside Line that they are only for Japan.

"There are no plans to bring either to the States," said Maurice Durand, spokesman for Mitsubishi Motors North America in a phone conversation with Inside Line. "Remember that the North American version of the i-MiEV (known only as the i) is unique. It is a larger, heavier version with more safety equipment."

Durand said the U.S. is still on tap to get our version of the i-MiEV in November starting on the West Coast, with a nationwide rollout to follow later. The U.S. version will start at $28,850, including an $860 destination charge. It is eligible for a $7,500 federal rebate. The i is targeting the Nissan Leaf.

The cheaper Mitsubishi i-MiEV M version has a sticker price of $32,140 and a shorter range of 75 miles, compared with 100 miles for the previous model. Mitsubishi said in a statement that the M model is an entry-level vehicle designed for "running errands like local shopping and running children to school and back."

According to media reports out of Japan, Mitsubishi was able to lower the price of the egg-shaped i-MiEV because the price of batteries has dropped in the last two years.

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV G version — which starts at $46,975 — has LED headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and such options as "pre-activated air-conditioning." Other options include the "MiEV Remote System," which allows the owner to set the time she wants battery charging to start and finish.

The M model goes on sale in late July, while the G model goes on sale in mid-August.

Inside Line says: Mitsubishi's Japan pricing announcement for the i-MiEV is significant for the U.S. because it indicates that automakers are determined to keep the prices down on electric vehicles.