Mitsubishi I-MiEV Evolution Pikes Peak Race Car Detailed
In an effort to showcase all-electric power, Mitsubishi Motors will be entering two Mitsubishi i-MiEVs into the annual Pikes Peak Hill Climb this year.
Seen above is the Mitsubishi i-MiEV Evolution, the Japanese automakers best chance at nabbing the electric class victory at Pikes Peak. It features the same electric motor, drive battery and other major components of the production i-MiEV, but is race-ready.
The i-MiEV evolution uses three electric motors: one for the front two wheels, and two for each rear wheel. Pair this all-wheel drive with the car’s light-weight aerodynamic body and you can see how serious Mitsubishi is taking this event.
The i-MiEV evolution will be piloted by Hiroshi Masuoka, the first Japanese driver to win consecutive Dakar rally victories.
The i-MiEV Evolution will be joined by a production Mitsubish i, which will be driven by Beccy Gordon. The Mitsubishi i, is much closer in appearance and performance to what you’ll see in Mitsubishi dealerships. All the i had changed for the race is its front bumper, a roll-cage and some race-specific safety gear.
Both Gordon and Masuoka are geared up and excited about being apart of the electric class at Pikes Peak.
Masuoka, who currently helps test with vehicle development as well as the training of company test drivers and the running of test drive sessions said “Given the tough driving conditions that Pikes Peak is known for, I’m really keen to show people the world over those electric vehicles are capable of gutsy motive performance and excellent handling in addition to their superior environmental performance.”
Gordon, an experienced off-road racer is equally excited to show that electric vehicles belong in the world of motorsports.
“I’m really happy to be able to drive the Mitsubishi i in the Pikes Peak race and am looking forward to giving it my best in an electric car, the type of vehicle that is set to become a major player in motor sports in future.” said Gordon.
Pikes Peak will take place in Colorado, on July 3-8.
Sami has an unquenchable thirst for car knowledge and has been at AutoGuide for the past six years. He has a degree in journalism and media studies from the University of Guelph-Humber in Toronto and has won multiple journalism awards from the Automotive Journalist Association of Canada. Sami is also on the jury for the World Car Awards.
More by Sami Haj-Assaad
Comments
Join the conversation