Mitsubishi i-MiEV launched in Malaysia for RM136k – the first all-electric vehicle to be sold in this country

Mitsubishi_i-miev_launch_007

The electric age has begun in Malaysia with Mitsubishi officially launching the i-MiEV today, the first all-electric vehicle to be sold here. Going full electric has been a long process for Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, who first registered the EV way back in 2011. An Eco-Tourism Pilot Demonstration Program in Langkawi followed suit in 2012, before the official launch teasers started earlier this week.

The i-MiEV (Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle) goes on sale to the Malaysian public for a hefty RM136,118.50 without insurance (RM139,888 OTR), despite its fully tax exempt status. There’s always a price to pay to be a pioneer at something big and future-proof, and in the case of electric vehicles, this is it.

At least there’s plenty to be saved with the i-MiEV’s minimal running costs. There will be no fuel bill for starters, and charging up the car from empty to full capacity only costs around RM3.50 in electricity bill, which will then give you a maximum range of 150 km (measured in the NEDC cycle).

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As you are not likely to fully deplete the battery everyday, your daily charging cost would be considerably cheaper still. Plus, there are always the two public EV charging stations in KLCC and Lot 10 where you can park and charge your vehicle for free.

With no engine and hence no lubricants, service maintenance is cheaper too. Service interval is every 20,000 km, where it would be run through standard diagnostic checks. The only things that need replacing are the air-con filter and brake fluid. Not that it matters for the first five years anyway, as the i-MiEV comes with a watertight five year warranty and free service (up to 100,000 km).

Annual road tax is RM10, the lowest permissible for a car. Insurance too is measured based on a 660 cc vehicle, the cheapest class in the current system.

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Alas, though significant, there’s only so much you can save from the lower running cost as even with everything considered, it’s nowhere near enough to offset the car’s price in the first place. So let’s not kid ourselves here: this car is all about saving the environment, not money.

It uses an all-electric motor for forward propulsion, with a maximum output of 49 kW (equivalent to 67 hp) and 196 Nm of torque driving the rear wheels. It operates silently with no vibrations, offering a unique driving environment that’s unlike traditional vehicles with internal combustion engines.

All that torque is available from zero rpm, so it’s a punchy performer (top speed is 130 km/h). A low-centre of gravity promises agile handling characteristics and, coupled with a tight turning radius of 4.5 m, should prove to be a real hoot to drive around town.

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The 330V battery can be charged from a standard home power socket, and takes a full eight hours to charge fully, or less with some charge left. No fuel is used, just battery charge. It emits no emissions either. In reducing our carbon footprint and dependence to fossil fuels, this car is a huge step forward.

In case you’re wondering, the battery is covered by the five-year warranty, and is said to retain at least 80% of its full capacity after that period. After 10 years of use, the figure drops to 70%.

At just 3,475 mm long and 1,475 mm wide, the i-MiEV is a tiny little car. It’s got a long 2,550 mm wheelbase though, so interior space is not an issue. Lack of creature comfort isn’t either, with a 2-DIN touchscreen multimedia system with GPS, automatic climate control, auto headlights, electric power steering and leather steering wheel and shifter as standard.

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As small as it is, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV packs Active Stability Control (ASC), six airbags and Mitsubishi’s RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) rigid body construction for uncompromised safety. The battery too is encased in a waterproof package that is protected against impact damage.

Also unveiled is Mitsubishi’s first EV Centre, SAG Star along Jalan Chan Sow Lin. It’s got a free charging station for all EV users, and Mitsubishi said a further five EV Centres will be built within the financial year – four in the peninsular, one in East Malaysia.

The i-MiEV is definitely not for everyone. It’s a testament to the grand vision of a few, designed for the discerning few who value energy sustainability more than others.

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Hafriz Shah

Preferring to drive cars rather than desks, Hafriz Shah ditched his suit and tie to join the ranks of Malaysia’s motoring hacks. A car’s technical brilliance is completely lost on him, appreciating character-making quirks more. When not writing this ego trip of a bio, he’s usually off driving about aimlessly, preferably in a car with the right combination of three foot pedals and six gears.

 

Comments

  • yahooo on Mar 21, 2013 at 1:56 pm

    Way to go, mitsubishi!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 40 Thumb down 11
    • agogo on Mar 21, 2013 at 3:12 pm

      yeah… way to go Mitsubishi !
      fair pricing as well, IMHO
      I-Miev in Japan = 3,800,000yen = RM124k
      http://www.mitsubishi-motors.co.jp/i-miev/grade/index.html

      your move Nissan Leaf..

      Well-loved. Like or Dislike: Thumb up 60 Thumb down 5
      • Kalun on Mar 21, 2013 at 7:38 pm

        What the government should do is to give EV rebates to all EV owners like UK and US and probably Japan too.

        Maybe give RM10 000-20 000

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 38 Thumb down 1
        • youngrich on Mar 22, 2013 at 12:01 am

          i just booked 10 units

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 31
          • felalai on Mar 22, 2013 at 6:02 am

            Why it’s too cheap? I thought its price is 1 million like felali because it’s so cute

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 11 Thumb down 1
          • benchot on Mar 22, 2013 at 8:39 am

            10 units of what? spark plugs?

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 32 Thumb down 1
      • Sam Loo on Mar 22, 2013 at 1:55 pm

        Bodoh pricing. Buy a Myvi for RM50k, better car with more space and save RM80k. Or buy Preve at 60K. Still save RM70k. Do you ever think you will use RM80k in fuel in 10 years? Only stupid people want to be pioneers in everything new.

        And RV? You think you can sell later at RM30k also cannot

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 12 Thumb down 41
        • People who buy this will only consider about better environment. When talk about “ECO”, nothing is come cheap but then again. It’s all depends on personal preference, why do you worry? You got money, you buy lah if not don’t jealous lah. rofl.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 22 Thumb down 1
        • neutral on Mar 23, 2013 at 9:36 am

          Hi Sam,

          I think you are missing the point here. EV cars are being eco-friendly. Being kind to earth. Zero emission (debatable, as it uses electric which is powered by gas, coal, hydro and other forms of fuel). And being less reliant on fossil fuel.

          It maybe expensive now, but its a stepping stone to something greater. Sad to say, your comment is rather selfish and shallow.

          Cheers!

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 29 Thumb down 2
          • Greenman on Mar 23, 2013 at 12:49 pm

            Good comment.

            However, just to add to yours, zero emission vehicles really mean zero tailpipe emission vehicles. Yes, the emissions are transferred to the power plants. But, the average emissions per energy unit produced in a power grid is lower than those produced by a normal diesel/petrol car. Also, emissions at a power plant can be controlled and improved (lowered) by introducing new technologies. Even dirty coal plants are getting cleaner with supercritical and ultra supercritical coal technologies. The new coal plants under construction in Peninsular Malaysia (in Manjung and Tanjung Bin) both use supercritical technologies, i.e. a few percent more efficient and cleaner.

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 13 Thumb down 0
          • Louis on Oct 27, 2014 at 4:41 pm

            Who else can afford this, if u have enough to buy a camry? 80% of the employee can’t even afford??

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
    • Not nice! why don’t get a Aston Martin Cygnet?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 2
    • Prismo on Mar 22, 2013 at 3:19 pm

      Seriously, it pretty much look like the world cheapest car the tata nano… :)

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 1
      • PakCik Propa on Mar 25, 2013 at 10:19 pm

        yeah .. like Tata Nano .. eh! why the sport tin and tyre so small ?? .. it looks like idi*** car … ‘skema’ car … the price also too high loo ..

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
  • Green on Mar 21, 2013 at 1:57 pm

    A toy for Rich people who have green mind in heart.

    In fact, this has been rated the Most fuel saving car on earth, before the market available of VW E-car.

    up to 50km/L.
    this Mitsu iMiev give u a FC similar to a Kap Cai.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 18 Thumb down 28
    • benchot on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:28 pm

      u mitsu salesman ar? why ur lancer cant sell d come promote this green vehicle now ar? go back go ask job at tesco.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 16 Thumb down 88
    • BalanceD on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:46 pm

      It is fully Electric. Why are you talking about FC? 50km/l??

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 31 Thumb down 13
      • tupakamaru on Mar 21, 2013 at 4:29 pm

        maybe “green” is referring to RM3.50 in electricity bill equivalent to 2L petrol (RM1.90 per litter)…

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 22 Thumb down 1
        • neutral on Mar 23, 2013 at 10:02 am

          The term to use here is RANGE i.e. how far can one full charge take you, and not FC.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
    • u know this is electric car rite? not hybrid car

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 13
    • green on Mar 21, 2013 at 3:42 pm

      I’m deceived by this:
      http://autos.yahoo.com/mitsubishi/i-miev/

      this site actually mentioned up to 126mpg for FC.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 9
      • True, but still, it doesnt use any petrol. They just mathematically converted the charging cost to fuel usage so that it’s easier for consumers to compare it with other petrol/hybrid vehicles.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 24 Thumb down 1
  • I don’t think it will sway many buyers from the hybrid camps even with the lack of heartbreaking payments to the service center or worse ,the fuel pump. Until there are more EV charging station around Malaysia, I won’t give much consideration, but whoever buys it, I would salute you.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 25 Thumb down 3
    • koochai on Mar 21, 2013 at 3:10 pm

      quote… “The 330V battery can be charged from a standard home power socket…” Why do we need so many charging station?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 11 Thumb down 4
      • Typically, charging station have higher watts/voltage/amps and therefore charge faster than your typical home power socket. It wouldn’t be fun halfway through your journey that you’ll have to wait for an 8 hours charge. Not sure if this car supports fast charge or not.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 20 Thumb down 1
        • Dr Cooper on Mar 22, 2013 at 7:35 am

          Well obviously, this car is not design for fun long journey, this is more for necessities.. going to work, groceries, send children to school,all those not-a-fun routine

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 1
      • We dont need so many charging station now, we will need many of it in the future when EV becomes a commom sight..but this is the chicken and egg thing, it’s not the matter of which one develop first they (EV and charging stations) hv to develop concurrently. So, with more charging stations, we can go everywhere, (say, balik kampung) just like the petrols…
        Imagine u forgot to charge ur EV at home last nite, and today while driving in kepong(assume u stay in cheras) u find that the charge is only 20%full…u start thinking:”KLCC or cheras?”

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 20 Thumb down 3
        • Gegary on Mar 21, 2013 at 5:48 pm

          Only if you travel more than 150km in 2 days. Or when you go office, take a really long extension cord to the parking lot; or park outside Starbucks then use their laptop socket, hahahaha

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 15 Thumb down 1
          • remember to park at legal space or pay parking fees/ticket or risk having ur expensive i miev being towed away or kena saman…loosing more money with the EV….hehehe

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 1
        • I wonder where in cheras, I’ve just gave RM17 to the ticket machine in KLCC barely an hour ago. Damn expensive. charging station should be present in every shopping complex in the city to support city-like EV cars such as this , and I can’t see who but the loaded will pay for a car of this price that can only travel in the city. But it’s a good start and Mitsubishi Malaysia did a awesome job of pulling the trigger for EV cars in Malaysia, hope EV like the Leaf, Fluence and the amazing model S will join it. Or even PHEV like the Chevy volt or Accord Hybrid.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 13 Thumb down 1
      • scabek on Mar 21, 2013 at 5:42 pm

        Because there’s always the unexpected like traffic jams, detours etc. Plus in US or UK if you find a 32V high voltage charging point, you can fully recharge the I-miev from flat in 32 minutes, less time if you still got some charge left in the traction battery. I took a test drive in the mitsubishi dealership, this little electric car really took me by surprise. The relentless amount of torque is so much fun, and the ride is really compliant, put it this way, this is a perfect City car that makes perfect sense. This is the way forward. If you are interested in electric motoring, check out “fullychargedshow” podcast series by Robert Llewellyn. He is a avid renewable energy advocate, and offers intersting insightful knowleage in the videos.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 21 Thumb down 1
  • BMW Fanboi on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:02 pm

    Preve-i is still a better car

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 54 Thumb down 63
  • KIA = killed in accident on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:05 pm

    RM136,118.50 ????!!!!

    Why don’t just buy a bigger motorcycle ???!!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 23 Thumb down 33
    • coz u die faster on d road if on bike with super speed

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 41 Thumb down 3
      • And with this car, you’ll suffer pain and misery for a while before you die.

        Fast death or slow death. Your choice. ;)

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 14 Thumb down 21
    • Bikers are a nuisance on Mar 21, 2013 at 5:40 pm

      More bikers on our roads are not exactly a welcomed idea. No offence to all bikers out there … but many of you out there are just plain a**holes. Many have complete disregard for traffic rules and put others in danger. Some seem to think they should be given right of way, regardless. Hey guys, many of you don’t even pay road tax and all of you don’t pay toll. Jangan act sangat laa.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 56 Thumb down 8
      • KIA = killed in accident on Mar 22, 2013 at 7:29 am

        agreed and i am not a biker myself :)

        The most annoying thing is when I try to switch lane, I often got honked by motorcyclists because the way in between lanes is belonging to those CCB motorcyclists, at least they think so

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 13 Thumb down 5
      • Olympics on Mar 22, 2013 at 8:07 am

        Bro, he’s talking about big bikes…. and most big bikers own cars as well… and most probably cars bigger than yours. Yes, they don’t pay toll… tapi dia bayar roadtax sama harga 2,000cc cars punya roadtax. Jangan act sangat laa.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 8
        • Bikers are a nuisance on Mar 22, 2013 at 10:31 am

          Bro, yes there are some big bikers who are quite well-off. I know some of them.

          But, I’m sure many are just “perasan bagus”. I also know many who are like that.

          BTW, bukan mau act laa, I own a few cars. Big ones and also small ones.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 2
          • johnny english on Mar 22, 2013 at 6:22 pm

            Agree with Bikers are a nuisance. You should see big bikers speeding down Kesas highway lane; instead of the bike lane. Complete disregard to the rules and endangering their lives.

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 0
  • Insurance company sure butthurt every time this car claim..

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 19 Thumb down 5
  • 70k – 80k can consider,i think all the service fees already added into this car that is why it cost 136k.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 19 Thumb down 5
  • benchot on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:15 pm

    wah liao wei..small car price so expensive..crz better lo..my crz can smoke this small mitsu and make karipap and tossei and char siew pao lo..

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 30 Thumb down 51
    • koochai on Mar 21, 2013 at 3:15 pm

      with 180 nm torque at 0 rpm, i bet ur crz will be smoked by i-miev in standing start sprint…but hey…it’s full electric…no smoke maaaa…

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 53 Thumb down 4
    • BMW Fanboi on Mar 22, 2013 at 1:36 am

      Preve smokes CRZ anytime, anywhere, anyhow. Low torque still mau berlagak with your “Hybrid” CRZ.

      By the way, i-miev is very cool indeed ! Invest for our future.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 6
      • If you actually see nicely. Preve (Turbo Variant) takes 9.6 seconds 0-100km/h while the CRZ (Facelift) takes 9.0 seconds 0-100km/h. So I doubt your statement is right. Even the Pre-Facelift takes 9.6 seconds. So yea, Preve wouldn’t be able to smoke the CRZ anyway

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 2
        • Actually, the manual version of the CRZ can not the CVT version as that has less power. I personally believe under capable hands, the manual CRZ will be faster in almost any roads than the same person in a Preve until a straight in the highway ,where the CRZ will loose some steam at maybe around 160kph and the better power and torque on the preve will gain the upper hand. I love the CRZ as a manual, or more specifically I love the CRZ because it gives a full spec manual, but too bad that only 10% of CRZ sales are manual, the CVT is just another hairdresser car to me.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 1
          • tanpa nama on Jan 22, 2014 at 12:08 pm

            wahhhh my 1982 1242 cc mitsubishi colt mirage with special power and economy gear can make 0 – 100 km in 8 sec with power gear and run at top speed of 140 with economy gear… can go faster i think but i won’t dare… boleh kena sakit jantung woo…. yeah a 30 year old well maintained car … i love my colt mirage… even my new saga can’t beat it…

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
        • remark on Mar 22, 2013 at 2:54 pm

          preve after ecu remapping can do sub-nine second lah. waiting for the hback – sure faster and more aggressive than its brother

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
        • neutral on Mar 23, 2013 at 10:25 am

          Take your CRZ a little further… maybe a race from KL to Genting. Then we’ll see who reaches the top 1st. As much as I hate Proton, and respect a hybrid car, but these CRZ boy racers should read their data a little more detail, and not just by looking at a quarter mile drag race.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
        • BMW Fanboi on Mar 23, 2013 at 11:25 am

          Preve can fit FIVE proper adult in the car.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
    • neutral on Mar 23, 2013 at 9:54 am

      Another crz-racer-boy wannabe. lol. Seen many on the street these days. What’s the range of the battery before it depletes before you rely solely on your measly 1.5cc engine. An old Satria 1.6cc can smoke you on NSE. So think before you speak of how great your puny crz is.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
  • Self-proclaimed Sultan of Bulu on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:17 pm

    Mitsubishi Malaysia, any chance of selling the regular turbocharged 660cc Mitsubishi i?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 13 Thumb down 3
  • Learn Ping on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:18 pm

    At last, they come.
    But the price is really…unless I can get a loan of RM100,000 and at least 10 years repayment period. The average JOE can’t afford this WONDERFUL machine.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 17 Thumb down 3
  • They should set up charging stations at the peak and foothill of genting highland/cameron highland, bukit tinggi. With the powerful torque from the car, people will love to drive it uphills and minus the milege anxiety and petrol bills….win win situation for mitsubishi and the highlands….haha…they can have promo quote such as :
    “Charge yourself up to the Highlands tour!”

    Well-loved. Like or Dislike: Thumb up 62 Thumb down 0
    • BabeMoon on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:36 pm

      Yah! i got the same suggestion with you…somemore genting not easy to find a parking, this car really save space save enviroment :D

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 0
    • by the way, kudos to mitsubishi malaysia for their bold move to spear head the usage of electric vehicle in malaysia, it wont be easy and they might fail, but someone must lead….i hope/predict tanchong (nissan leaf)will be the next to follow…
      The federal and local governments should start planning the infrastructures/policies for EV properly by now….

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 26 Thumb down 0
      • Kereta Man on Mar 22, 2013 at 10:45 am

        Lets see who becomes federal government in the next few weeks..

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 1
  • ahchai69 on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:26 pm

    How many people willing to pay rm136k for such small car?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 19 Thumb down 1
  • momocultus on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:28 pm

    Its is not for everyday people yet.. but way to go to be the first MMM

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 1
  • awesome on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:32 pm

    Hey Mitsu great news. How much is the cost to replace the battery and what is the lifespan of this battery.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 10
  • alias11 on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:42 pm

    Way to go mitsu but hopefully sometime in the near future the price will be much cheaper…good news to eco friendly people who has been ushering this type of car albeit the price tag may be too expensive…
    Reminder to sam loonatic not to comment n mention the toyot RV sh**…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 15 Thumb down 0
  • mystvearn on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:52 pm

    I think people will help save the environment more if they don’t buy the car in the first place. When you don’t buy, Mitsubishi will not make it, hence better for the environment :P That Rm136K, better buy a used civic, golf or polo. Even better for environment since you are buying used car.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 17
  • xenogearz™ on Mar 21, 2013 at 2:57 pm

    RM3.50 for a distance of 150km. Based on the price of a RON95 of RM1.90 per liter, the fuel consumption equivalent is an impressive 81.4km per liter! Too bad it is way too pricey.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 14 Thumb down 1
    • Yea, if you buy milo tin viva, you’ll have 100k of fuel money.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 27 Thumb down 1
  • Loklok on Mar 21, 2013 at 3:22 pm

    This car deserve additional credit from the goverment to educate crucial of green environment.. Say tht 20k credit for any buyer?? Perhaps free parking at BN states… Etc

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 17 Thumb down 3
  • RakyatMalaysia7 on Mar 21, 2013 at 3:32 pm

    I know Mitsu is trying to save the earth, but at least the design should be head-turning in order to attract consumer..u know,there r still a lot of consumers who still put good car design as a main criteria before buying a car..all in all,its a bad first impression for me..although,if driving one could have a different perspective..i emphasize on FIRST IMPRESSION coz it counts

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 0
    • This is the first generation of i-MIEV.. Why not wait for the second generation??

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 2
      • yappy on Mar 24, 2013 at 11:59 pm

        …so tat Pxxton can rebadge the first model(like they did to lancer)sell it at a lower price, so tat the avg Joe like will have the chance to feel green….

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • CARtoon on Mar 21, 2013 at 3:33 pm

    Wanna be a tree hugger then walk or cycle. Electricity used to charge this kind of car are still being produced in not so environmentally friendly way. So the nett effect is roughly the same.

    Car manufacturers should stop be delusional and continue to mislead consumers with such PR stunts. It’s just a different way of consuming resources. Pfftt…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 8
    • sokong you bro! petrol should be rm8 per litre when the mrt is up and running. i dont want my tax money going to subsidising toll charges that use our socalled cheap petrol to take a nap in shopping centre carparks.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 0
    • Dr Cooper on Mar 22, 2013 at 7:42 am

      dey… what do you mean delusional ..those car manufactures are business people…they just want to make money out of any opportunity the can get and EV is one of them..

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 1
    • Just to share a tot.. Research all over the world has shown that life cycle analysis (LCA) on emission from EV is still lower than those Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) event if the source of electricity for charging EV came from Coal-Fired Power Plant. Therefore, your remarks that the nett effect is roughly the same is not so accurate.. :-)

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 12 Thumb down 0
  • Samy Loony on Mar 21, 2013 at 3:42 pm

    136K? Buy Prius 1.8 Luxury! You get LED lights and JBL, and… .green streeto credo!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 14 Thumb down 7
    • Prius luxury is around 145k….that was prius standard.., but u hv given a very good comparison.. The prius is a much more sensible buy at the moment..

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 26 Thumb down 1
  • Randy on Mar 21, 2013 at 3:48 pm

    I call bulls**t on tax exemption status.
    This car is only usd 20K+ in the USA.
    It’s priced 130K and that double the USA price…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 11 Thumb down 30
    • Do your research properly lah on Mar 21, 2013 at 4:36 pm

      Bro, that USD20K price tag is after tax credits and other incentives given by some American states to encourage low carbon cars. The actual selling price in the US is higher.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 32 Thumb down 1
    • BMW Fanboi on Mar 22, 2013 at 1:39 am

      Get you facts right lar before condemn…. Dasar malaysian betul

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 0
      • neutral on Mar 23, 2013 at 9:59 am

        @Do your research properly lah & BMW Fanboi,

        Again, many are missing the point. Shouldn’t our govt. be encouraging low carbon vehicles? And not to mentioned this is a ZERO EMISSION vehicle!

        And say to see many aren’t seeing the bigger picture. Yes this car is expensive. And I think our govt. should device a plan to encourage or even provide incentives to electric car owners. If we are not gonna do something about saving the planet, who will?

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • zencsk on Mar 21, 2013 at 3:55 pm

    Tried the car at the showroom at Chan Sow Lin. Pickup is good as it is an electrical car. Have problem knowing that the engine has been turn on there are no combustion involved. Driving is ok … need to get used to the electrical break though.
    However this car will definately be selling like hot cakes due to the price and the availability of charging station BUT it is good start to introduce fully electric car. BTW the car dun even consume engine oil and hydraulic oil. The road tax is surprisingly will cost only RM1 ! My guess for possible buyers … resorts owners or very rich woman.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 24 Thumb down 2
    • zencsk on Mar 21, 2013 at 3:57 pm

      Fat fingers .. I meant the car won’t be selling like hot cakes.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 1
  • Bring Tesla Here Please! on Mar 21, 2013 at 4:01 pm

    A good move by Mitsubishi to help our country achieve (in a very small way) its low carbon ambitions. However, 2 major drawbacks here – 1. The price is way too high even for people who’re committed to the environment. 2. The design is … unattractive, to say the least.

    But, for the sake of the electric car industry, I sincerely hope the car won’t be a failure here. All the best to Mitsubishi!!!

    I hope our major Malaysian auto players are considering bringing the Tesla cars here. Sure, they’ll be even more expensive. But, the Tesla Model S really rocks!!!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 23 Thumb down 1
  • wajaowner on Mar 21, 2013 at 4:12 pm

    RM136,118.50 at 90% Loan = RM 122,506
    let say at 3% bank interest per annum the monthly pay for a period of 9 years is = RM 1440 (a)

    total monthly electric bill = rm 4 x 30 = rm 120(b)

    After the 9th year your 330V battery kaput perhaps you pay min RM 7k ? so RM7k divide 108 months = RM 65 (c)

    a + b + c = RM 1625 actual monthly commitment

    RM 1625 x 108 = RM 175500 total ownership cost minus other maintenance

    Car price at after 9 years will make you %$@#*&@$
    in a nutshell only for the rich lor. Just my 2 cents

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 21 Thumb down 6
  • How long does the battery last? And how much to replace?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
  • Painter on Mar 21, 2013 at 4:20 pm

    Well, we start off with 150km range. After 5 years, I get 80% charge, equivalent to 120km. After 10 years, I get 105km. Who wants to buy a 2nd hand car that runs 100km after 8 hours of charging?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 1
    • BMW Fanboi on Mar 22, 2013 at 1:46 am

      In 10 years time, cars will use kinetic energy recovery system to recharge the battery while you’re driving it.

      In 10 years time, Kedai Brothers will sell the system for you to pasang yourself. Easily don’t have to wait anymore for charging.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
      • The kinetic energy recovery technology or known as regenerative energy is already in place. i-MieV also have it.. If you drive EV to genting, u may consume energy while going up. But when u come down later, u will gain energy thru regenerative braking. :-)

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 0
        • BMW Fanboi on Mar 23, 2013 at 11:23 am

          See… don’t have to wait for 10 years… it already has the loop loop thingy.

          Thanx SYN.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Penang playboy on Mar 21, 2013 at 4:35 pm

    Well, if Tesla coming to Malaysia, that will be a different story
    http://www.teslamotors.com/models/design

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 12 Thumb down 0
    • Khir Toyota on Mar 22, 2013 at 7:56 am

      No doubt. Model S is such a sexy sedan with an impressive mileage.

      I also wish Lit Motors c-1 to be here as well. A vehicle with the convenience of a bike (may avoid jam, parking & toll) and the safety + comfort of a car combined is so mouth watering http://litmotors.com/c-1/

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
  • gOOsh on Mar 21, 2013 at 4:51 pm

    for this size of car at pricetag of RM140K… orang kaya je la yg beli…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
  • JackeyDeck on Mar 21, 2013 at 5:12 pm

    136K… Damn… that is just too Damn much for a green minded person (Yeah, I really am) and I am also an average guy that love my boy n wife more than the environment. I am not able to spend such money for such a small ride.

    Salute MMM and hope the best for you guys.

    Btw… OK, fine, u can charge it at KLCC, Lot10, ur home…. But…. macam mana aku nak charge kt condominium I?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 1
    • Get an extension cable from guard house! You stay in Condo why bother to save money unless you are an environmental conscious guy.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • zanggief on Mar 21, 2013 at 5:18 pm

    sound very good when use in golf club, resort, theme park but in normal condition then will not be so friendly where you need to wait for ~4hrs to get the car roll again compared to few minutes pump in petrol station…need more charger to make life easier man…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 1
  • new business coming….portable powerbank for EV hahahaha

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 12 Thumb down 1
  • Modesto.hann on Mar 21, 2013 at 5:50 pm

    Don’t drive this car to puchong during rainy day, the repair cost probably will cost more than the car price if gets soaked.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 1
    • You should drive to puchong on rainy days. It’s said to be waterproof and mitsu gave their own warranty for it.. so you should try.. maybe it’ll be the only car capable of driving through flood lol.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 1
  • ThinkStraight on Mar 21, 2013 at 5:50 pm

    Crazy price. Ridiculous at 136k. I am thinking a nice Honda Civic 2.0 or again, maybe it’s time to get a Volkswagen. Add a little more. How much green can they save? With TNB periodic electricity disruption, your Mitsubishi battery car cannot jalan for sure. U better charge during off peak hours.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 16
  • Grant on Mar 21, 2013 at 5:52 pm

    Hafriz, why no mention of the Detroit Electric sports car Shanghai Motor Show launch?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
  • At what environmental cost to produce a battery to this so called green car?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
  • JasonKiD86 on Mar 21, 2013 at 6:49 pm

    Do we able to bring power bank to charge up this tiny vehicle ^^?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 2
  • Alahai on Mar 21, 2013 at 7:44 pm

    Where is Tesla S. Hope this car come to Malaysia. Can do 800km with single charge.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 2
  • Ahmadfaris93 on Mar 21, 2013 at 8:33 pm

    RM136k for this. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 9
  • Savvy88 on Mar 21, 2013 at 8:36 pm

    any buyer must consider flood coverage.. well, you know KL.. imagine this kind of car stuck in the flood. boleh kena electrical shock woo

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
  • ahmed on Mar 21, 2013 at 8:41 pm

    Bang ………. no point la this car. Malaysian Makan pun tarak cukup n how afford to buy tis car. So how to save petrol. Sad but true la. Tapi pakai proton pun problem. Much cheaper but is rubbish. Again sad but true.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 0
  • xv400 on Mar 21, 2013 at 10:00 pm

    so the insurance cost for this 660cc-equivalent car is rm3700? not so much advantage here from being equated to 660cc car then.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
    • BMW Fanboi on Mar 22, 2013 at 1:49 am

      Get you figures right first…

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
      • xv400 on Mar 28, 2013 at 11:57 pm

        Well of course it won’t be exactly RM3700 since you’re so smart and particular bmw fanboy…

        Price without insurance = RM136,118.50
        OTR price = RM139,888.00
        The difference is = RM3700

        Then after minus registration (-RM300), road tax (-RM10), plate number (-RM80), inspection & handling (-RM200), ownership clam (-RM50) some of which are estimates btw.

        That leaves insurance to be about = RM3060

        That is still a lot more expensive than an average 660cc car out there!

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Wait…dun buy yet…..in 5 more year or less China will be exporting electric car with really really cheap price.

    Made in Japan Expensive

    Made in China Cheaper.

    You know all apple product made in China….so you get some high quality product too.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 2
    • Toyolta on Mar 22, 2013 at 2:39 pm

      battery 1 year already kong

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
    • neutral on Mar 23, 2013 at 10:17 am

      True, but the chinaman have been known to produce sub-standard products. Until they can get their act together, thanks, but no Made In China cars for me.

      p.s. Apple products are ASSEMBLE in China. Not made in China. A world of difference there my friend.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 2
  • Why nissan leaf still in pilot prog while MMM already have this model on sale?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
  • watever on Mar 22, 2013 at 2:58 am

    its not really green here..we burn fossil to get electricity in malaysia

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 14
  • Environmental Truth on Mar 22, 2013 at 3:28 am

    Save the environment? What a joke. You think to produce electricity no emissions to the environment meh? Aiyo. You’re just trading in your carbon emissions from a standard car to the carbon emissions from increased demand in electricity thanks to this joke of a car. I’m sorry but how is this a step in the right direction? I’d prefer more research into hydrogen based fuel…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 2
  • Boss, I can’t go there; too far, outside my e-car range!!
    Bro, can’t fetch you, forgot to charge my car…
    Chic, I am fully charged….
    Imagine this

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
  • Khir Toyota on Mar 22, 2013 at 8:07 am

    A 2-star rating by Honest John just because of its ridiculous price. http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/mitsubishi/i-miev-2009/ Surprisingly, the price in the UK is quite similar to the price here. Hmmm…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 1
  • Khir Toyota on Mar 22, 2013 at 8:29 am

    One more tiny thing worth considering is its puny size. Like Kancil, after you park the car, be prepared to get cursed by other drivers who thought the parking lot is still empty. Lol.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
  • EV is good, but I have one question – in future there will be so many EV & a full charge in EV station (let say in 15 mins in future) then the queue in EV station must have to wait very long?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • proton will rename this car to ‘prebet’

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
  • jolly_idiot on Mar 22, 2013 at 9:18 am

    150km range. Do they take account on traffic jam? What if the battery fully depleted on the middle of the road? On tow?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • no_ev on Mar 22, 2013 at 9:25 am

    i think..the Rm3.50 per charge is inaccurate…remember…there is rate ladder in our electricity bill

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
    • Even if you calculate based on maximum tariff of domestic hsehold, the most it goes is about double ie around RM8. It is still cheap right?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 0
  • Without mentioning the trouble of limited running range and slow charging, how green actually is an EV car? From the calculation, it may be cheaper to run an EV car then a petrol car here, does it mean it produces less pollution or CO2?

    The EV car moves pollution from the car exhaust to a power plant. Fuel is burnt to generate heat, then the heat is converted to run a generator, generating electricity, transmitting to our home, using it to charge a battery and the battery drives the motor in the car. Energy is wasted as heat during these processes. What about simply burning the fuel in the car and runs the wheel directly?

    Some reports do state that EV cars produce less emissions than conventional car, but I don’t get it.

    However EV cars do reduce emissions if electricity is generated by hydro, nuclear (hey, nuclear!), wind, solar.

    After few years, the lithium battery that is produced by rare earth metals fails and be
    replaced by another one.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
    • skoda on Mar 22, 2013 at 1:28 pm

      good point

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
    • Seriously on Mar 22, 2013 at 5:04 pm

      By any chance an EV will always be better than a conventional gasoline power vehicle. Just imagine a traffic jam, on idle alone, the gas vehicle will not only continue to burn fuel, but create emission and also produce heat. Where else an EV will produce a fraction of that. Yes, it is brought back to the powerplant but the same amount to generate electricity would be less than that of fuel.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
    • land cruiser on Mar 22, 2013 at 6:03 pm

      Very simply only:

      – electric consumption of battery: 16kWh
      – CO2 emission equivalent during electricity generation [publish by PTM back in 2006]: 631g/kWh (0.631kg/kWh)
      – Max distance imiev can run: 150km

      >>so Co2 emit for electricity used to charged imiev: (16x631g)/150km= 67.3g/km

      Toyota Prius C Co2 emission: 91g/km
      Myvi 1.3 Co2 emission: 137g/km

      Seems like EV is still the cleanest car even with the dirties way of electricity generation in Malaysia which 97% are burnt from fossil.

      Reference:
      http://cdm.greentechmalaysia.my/up_dir/articles1016,article,1151393608,CDM%20Baseline%20Malaysia.pdf

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
      • Skoda on Mar 23, 2013 at 7:57 am

        Above comparison need to consider power loss during transmission from power plant to home.

        Adding up these losses, the difference between hydrid will be negligible. In addition, pruis is a bigger car with larger cabin. So it is logical it produce higher co2/km. So, a smaller capicity hybrid may produce the same co2/km.

        End up hybrid is still the better choice.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
        • Greenman on Mar 23, 2013 at 1:04 pm

          Good point there, but the Malaysian power transmission and distribution losses in Malaysia was only 7% as of 2010 (according to World Bank data).

          Besides, EV technologies are still at their infancy, things will only improve moving forward.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
        • land cruiser on Mar 23, 2013 at 8:08 pm

          Good question, but how would u justify smaller capacity engine produces lesser Co2, when 1.5L Prius C emits 91g/km while 1.8L Prius emits 89g/km?

          Energy loss should be a another topic of ecology.
          If energy losses has to considered, the energy loss during the petrol combustion on ICE vehicle is even higher. fyi only 20% of energy is used to move the car wheels, while the rest of the energy loss to heat and mechanical losses of engine moving parts. That’s why the engine compartment is so hot.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
        • Carl Wong on Mar 23, 2013 at 11:12 pm

          So for now Toyota Prius C, Prius, Honda CRZ, Jazz Hybrid, Insight & Civic Hybrid is still better :)..??!!!

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
        • Thanks guys, good knowledge sharing.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • LNick on Mar 22, 2013 at 11:05 am

    In my opinion the interior looks worse than a Myvi, at least from the pictures.
    If I can afford this car, I certainly won’t be able to bear with that interior.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
  • mayonis on Mar 22, 2013 at 4:31 pm

    even though it look expensive…actually the price Mitsui put for malaysia market is cheapest compare to others country. i believe that this product still in “question Mark” market share under matrix share and trying to go next phase. so it still target to rich people to ensure the establishment of this car…

    hoping by next 5 year…this car price can be around RM60K – RM80K ( brand new).

    my 2cent

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Seriously on Mar 22, 2013 at 4:57 pm

    196 Nm of torque from 0rpm for such a small car like that. Wow, that’s going to be one quick zipper.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • why EV cars so expensive ? bcos of eletric motor ?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
    • It is expensive bcoz of battery technology besides that the production volume havent reach a mass production scale. Hopefully, when total demand is high, unit cost of production will go down and eventually price will go down. Just like the price of conventional car. When it just started, the price is also relatively high but eventually it managed to get the optimum price when volume pick ups. :-). Basically, it is depend on demand-supply theory of economics..

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 0
  • Carl Wong on Mar 22, 2013 at 10:04 pm

    First ever electric car here…!! The price is a bit higher than I expect, but good start……

    How much would the Nissan Leaf (RM150,800??) or Honda Jazz EV be?? As a Honda fan I love Jazz EV the most. Driving an electric car is one of my future goal, I’ll get a Hybrid first :]….

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
    • Greenman on Mar 23, 2013 at 12:36 pm

      That’s the spirit, Carl Wong! Wish more people are like you.

      Don’t forget the BMW i3 is also coming out soon, in the US and Europe at least.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • neutral on Mar 23, 2013 at 10:08 am

    Pricey, but IMHO, big cooperations (well you know who you are) should purchase this as their company vehicles. Get the ball rolling, think of it as a public service or showing good example to fellow M’sians ;-)

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • cute918 on Mar 24, 2013 at 12:37 pm

    http://i.mitsubishicars.com/

    the car only cost US$21,625 (RM67,307)

    since it’s tax free, can we order direct from ebay? i don’t think the shipping will more than RM80k

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • jilbaber on Mar 25, 2013 at 9:44 am

    good car for replacing my i10 as daily commute car, but with the price (I could by 2 i10’s)shut me off..

    why it ridiculousness price like that?..just because it EV car ?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 1
  • US selling US$21,625 (RM67,307)with profit.
    So, where is the cost/profit go to with a 130k selling price in Malaysia.
    – shipping cost?
    – sale tax?
    – dealer or Mitsibishi profit ? and etc….

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • samsam on Mar 26, 2013 at 12:42 am

    use MRT can save RM139,888 OTR

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • samlok on Apr 10, 2013 at 5:26 pm

    any test drive unit

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Green buster on Aug 26, 2013 at 10:21 pm

    Pioneer of ugly and expensive start up product… Not only few generations later would surpass this capability, but also performance, mileage, technology and even price once R&D cost has decrease over time. This thing would be as cool as a rock few years later.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Green Sherlock on Aug 26, 2013 at 10:22 pm

    Pioneer of ugly and expensive start up product… Not only few generations later would surpass this capability, but also performance, mileage, technology and even price once R&D cost has decrease over time. This thing would be as cool as a rock few years later.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Alan Tan on Dec 04, 2013 at 3:06 pm

    Can you take out the battery and swap with another battery?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
 

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