i-MiEV to tackle Pikes Peak

Mitsubishi has announced that it’ll be entering a couple of i-MiEV electric cars in this year’s Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, which takes place in July.

The first contender, the i-MiEV Evolution, outwardly bears virtually zero similarity to the road-going version. However, beneath the carbon fibre bodywork and spaceframe chassis the electric motors, battery and other components are claimed to be identical.

Mitsubishi i-MiEV Evolution 2012 Front Side

Boasting a combined 321 bhp (240 kW / 326 PS) from its three motors, Mitsubishi is hoping that this all-wheel drive single-seater will be quick enough to secure victory in the Electric Vehicle class. Hiroshi Masuoka, who works in product development for Mitsubishi and is a two-time Dakar Rally winner, is going to be doing the driving.

The second challenger is a regular production i-MiEV. Like the showroom model, it features a 16 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that sends its energy to the rear wheels via a single 66 bhp (49 kW / 66 PS) motor. Behind the wheel will be American off-road racer Beccy Gordon.

Related posts:
i-MiEV joins Hertz fleet
US to get wider i-MiEV
Mitsubishi i-MiEV costs
UK i-MiEV prices slashed

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