All systems go! Hydro-Québec and Mitsubishi launch the largest electric
vehicle trial in Canada

Mayor Martel to drive an i-MiEV

MONTREAL, Dec. 20 /CNW Telbec/ - Hydro-Québec and Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada Inc. (MMSCAN) are pleased to announce that the first five all-electric i-MiEVs have arrived in Boucherville and are currently being prepared for their new drivers. Once installation of the data logging equipment that will be used during the trials is complete, Boucherville Mayor, Jean Martel, and employees from the City of Boucherville, the Centre de santé et de services sociaux Pierre-Boucher and Hydro-Québec will be able to pick up the test vehicles, just in time for the holidays.

Boucherville Mayor, Jean Martel, was delighted to announce his personal participation in the project. "I am pleased to be one of the first users of the i-MIEV car in Quebec. By participating in this project, I feel I'm contributing to technological progress that will enable all of us to live in a cleaner world and breathe healthier air. My daughters are really happy that we're doing something for our future. I wish the project great success and would like to thank everyone who is actively involved."  

Hydro-Québec will be leading the road tests that aim to evaluate the performance of up to 50 all-electric Mitsubishi i-MiEVs under a variety of circumstances, notably winter conditions. The project, that was announced at the Montreal International Auto Show in 2010, is designed to study the users' charging habits, driving experience and overall satisfaction as well as vehicle behaviour when interfaced with the electric grid.

"We are delighted to be at the heart of the largest electric vehicle trial in Canada," stated Pierre-Luc Desgagné, Senior Director, Strategic Planning and Government Affairs with Hydro-Québec. "Data collected during the tests will help Hydro-Québec plan the future electric vehicle public charging infrastructure which is one of our priorities."

Mr. Koji Soga, President and CEO of MMSCAN, had this to say: "This is truly an exciting project for Mitsubishi Motors of Canada, we are looking forward to the partnership. The data that we will collect over the following months will allow us to ensure our state of the art electric technology is ready for the Canadian market."

Indeed, the first five drivers will be able to get acquainted with their new i-MiEVs over the holidays. Media are invited to stay tuned as the details surrounding the application process for the second phase of the trial project will be announced in January, 2011.

i-MiEV fast facts
i-MiEV, which stands for Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle, is an all-electric, highway-capable, charge-at-home commuter car with zero tailpipe emissions.

Four major innovations improve the i-MiEV. This vehicle effectively protects its occupants as well as its electrical systems. It also features high-capacity lithium-ion batteries and a small eco-energetic electric motor as well as a three-way charging system. With its long wheelbase and wheels positioned as far to the front and back as possible, the i-MiEV can comfortably accommodate four adults as well as luggage behind the back seat.

The 16 kWh high energy density lithium-ion battery pack is located beneath the vehicle's floor, improving handling as well as maximizing space in the passenger compartment. 

Capable of travelling 120 km on a single charge, Mitsubishi's i-MiEV can be recharged in 6 hours using 240 volt outlets, 13 hours using 120 volt outlets or a quick charge station to provide an 80% charge within approximately 30 minutes.

Already sold in Japan, the i-MiEV will be introduced on the Canadian market at the end of 2011.

About Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada
Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada Inc. is committed to green technologies and Mitsubishi Motors, Japan, is a world leader in electric car research and development. For further information, visit www.mitsubishi-motors-pr.ca.

About Hydro-Québec
Hydro-Québec generates, transmits and distributes electricity. Its sole shareholder is the Québec government. It uses mainly renewable generating options, in particular hydropower, and supports the development of wind energy through purchases from independent power producers. It also conducts research in energy-related fields, such as energy efficiency. For more information on Hydro-Québec, please visit www.hydroquebec.com . For details on its electric transportation plans, visit www.hydroquebec.com/electrification-transport.

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