2006 Mitsubishi Concept-EZ MIEV

The Concept-EZ MIEV makes its world premiere at this year’s Geneva Motor Show and, as a showcase for the company’s advanced automotive technology, takes pride of place on the Mitsubishi stand.

The brainchild of Mitsubishi Design Europe, the strikingly styled Concept-EZ advanced prototype demonstrates the dynamic, packaging and design benefits of MIEV (Mitsubishi In-wheel motor Electric Vehicle), which uses ultra-compact electric motors that sit within the wheel hub itself.

Each of the Concept-EZ’s 20inch wheels houses a 27bhp in-hub motor – for a total output of 108bhp – powered by a lithium-ion battery pack sandwiched beneath the car’s flat floor.

By employing its MIEV technology in the 3700mm long Concept-EZ, Mitsubishi has liberated its engineers and designers from the traditional constraints imposed by internal combustion power and drivetrain, and have created an ‘urban capsule’ vehicle that provides unsurpassed interior packaging.

Concept-EZ’s usable internal space has also been enhanced by the use of a retractable steering wheel, drive-by-wire technology and intelligent folding seats to create a space that’s as equally adept at transporting passengers as it is providing them with an innovative and secure lounge area when they arrive.