Mitsubishi collaborates with Cenex to start iMIEV trials

23 June 2010

Mitsubishi Motors UK has announced that it will supply six all-electric Mitsubishi i-MiEVs in North East England to begin the next stage of groundbreaking low

Mitsubishi Motors UK has announced that it will supply six all-electric Mitsubishi i-MiEVs in North East England to begin the next stage of groundbreaking low carbon vehicle tests taking place in the region. The trial was made possible through a partnership with delivery agency Cenex as part of its Low Carbon Vehicle Procurement Programme (LCVPP).

Two vehicles will become part of the fleet at Newcastle City Council, two at Gateshead Council, one at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and another at Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council. The cars will form the next stage of the 'Smart Move' trial, a significant part of the partnership between Cenex and One North East, the development agency in the region.

"Cenex is pleased to continue our collaboration with One North East on electric vehicle deployment via this extension to our joint Smart Move project. The i-MiEV deployed in the Smart Move project will provide valuable learning concerning electric vehicle acceptance and future market development", said Robert Evans, CEO of Cenex.

The delivery of the new vehicles follows the initial part of the 'Smart Move' trial - which involved four local authorities now driving the car and gave drivers the chance to drive an electric vehicle through public test drive events and placements in car fleets. Trial results revealed that car fleets like those at local authorities could bring a successful market for electric cars.

"We are delighted that these forward-thinking local authorities will be able to experience the i-MiEVs in their everyday operational use", said Lance Bradley, managing director of Mitsubishi Motors UK.

"With a range of 80 miles, a top speed of 81mph, as well as minimal servicing and running costs and ample cabin space, it will prove that electric vehicles can be utilised without compromise in an organisation's fleet", he added.

As the electric vehicle industry starts to gain recognition in Britain, One North East is installing 1,300 charging points throughout the region as part of the nationwide Plugged in Places programme.

Brought to you by Autoweb.co.uk for all your Used Mitsubishi & Second Hand Mitsubishi