Overview & Reviews

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  6 months into owning a 2016 iMiEV - 2016 Mitsubishi I-MiEV
  By Barry L - December 19 - 11:00 pm

  iMiEV is a basic modest simple vehicle, what were used to (we also own a Toyota Yaris). Good for local travel, not long distance, although it does also have the 30 min. fast-charge port, if one wants to try for longer distances using public charging stations. Be aware that frequent fast charges age the battery faster - true for all lithium-battery EVs. Range: During warmer weather, actual range on local roads is about 80-85 miles, and the range-remaining gauge seems accurate, although its calculation is based on the last 15 min. of driving. Highway speed mileage is less, about 64 miles - and thats the official EPA range. In hot weather, using the A/C may lop about 10 miles off the range, but often it can be run intermitttently. In colder weather, the range drops, and if one is using the heater and defrost, this could be a 30-40% range loss. A 12V heated travel blanket is a good battery saver addition for winter driving. Driving the car into very low battery state triggers a turtle-shaped dash light, and reduced performance to save power. Ive driven about 5 miles "on the turtle" one time, when the onset of cold weather reduced my range more than expected on a 60 mile run, and the battery gauge reached empty. I did get home however. As for drivability, highways feel fine at 65-70 mph. On local roads, it handles a bit like a go-cart, and is fun to drive. It has very good pickup: the motor is directly coupled to the wheels. This car will take almost any other in a jack-rabbit start at a traffic light. Another plus: the car is QUIET. Unlike gas engines, which are powered by internal explosions, electric motors just hum. "Refueling" - We charge it overnight at 120V household, 12A, using the charger that came with it. I find the seats comfortable. Front seats are heated. Biggest negative is the poor safety rating of the rear seats. Yes, looks a bit different. So what? As far as reliability, so far so good. Dont forget theres a $7500 federal tax credit (assuming you have taxes to at least that amount.) There was a $2500 Massachusetts credit also. Brand new electric car for $15K. Beat that!