Mitsubishi i MiEV rolls into New Zealand 12.02.2009: As part of a data-gathering campaign aimed at studying the feasibility of its electric vehicle project in markets worldwide, Mitsubishi Motors kicked off the New Zealand trial of the zero-emissions i MiEV*1 electric vehicle along with local partner Meridi

As part of a data-gathering campaign aimed at studying the feasibility of its electric vehicle project in markets worldwide, Mitsubishi Motors kicked off the New Zealand trial of the zero-emissions i MiEV*1 electric vehicle along with local partner Meridian Energy at a gala event February 10.

More than 100 government representatives and other key stakeholders were invited to drive the car and discuss its potential for the New Zealand market. Mitsubishi Motors was proud to welcome keynote speaker Hon. Dr. Nick Smith, New Zealand's Minister of the Environment and Climate Change.

Smith said of the vehicle:
"This is the beginning of an exciting energy revolution as significant as the economic transformation from the steam engine to the internal combustion engine more than a century ago. congratulate and Mitsubishi for their announcement today."

The event was held in the lush surroundings of Zealandia, a 252-hectare wildlife preserve of which Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand is a long-term principal partner.

Announced in October 2006, the i MiEV represents the pinnacle of Mitsubishi Motors' green technologies. Currently involved in testing and promotional activities in Japan, New Zealand, the United States and across Europe, the i MiEV will be launched in Japan during the summer of 2009.

*1     Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle
*2     Photograph: from left to right, Tim Lusk CEO (Meridian Energy), Kerry Prendergast (Mayor of Wellington), Nick Smith (Minister for the Environment and Climate Change), John Leighton (Managing Director MMNZ)



Hidenori Uki / Adam Sorkin- photo Mitsubishi