Mitsubishi is all set to tackle the most gruelling hill climb this year from June 25th to June 30th with the MiEV Evolution II all-electric prototype. Mitsubishi will utilise the data and technical knowledge garnered through its participation for eventual use in future production vehicles.
Mitsubishi entered the hill climb competition for the first time last year, with the i-MiEV Evolution all-electric prototype and finished an impressive second under the Electric Division. Participation in the event brought a rich harvest in terms of vehicle speed, acceleration and other on-road data, as well as drive battery consumption, motor temperature and other data critical to electric vehicle development.
The MiEV Evolution II utilises parts used in production vehicles combined with a high capacity battery and high output motors specially designed by Mitsubishi's suppliers.
For this year's race Mitsubishi added S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) integrated vehicle dynamics control system to a four-motor drivetrain (two-front/two-rear) for increased handling and control in the MiEV Evolution II. These, together with a specially designed body that provides reduced weight and improved aerodynamics, has resulted in a significant improvement in driving dynamics.
Mitsubishi will field two EV's in this year's event. One will be driven by two-time Dakar Rally overall champion Hiroshi Masuoka - who piloted the i-MiEV Evolution last year - and also act as Captain of the MMC team. The second EV will be piloted by Greg Tracy - six-time Pikes Peak motorcycle champion.
