It's a little car with a tiny name, but it's impressed the Automotive Researchers and Journalists Conference of Japan (RJC) in a big way. The i is
Mitsubishi's first vehicle to win the award.
The ideology for the i was simple enough- to create a new minicar which overcame the tradeoffs commonly associated with being very, very small. These include space, performance, comfort and safety, and they no longer need to loose out to one another.
Mitsubishi developed a unique "rear midship layout" in which the engine is mounted ahead of the rear axle. Among the benefits to this setup are increased safety, better weight distribution which aids in sharper handling, and a more spacious and upbeat interior.
It was ultimately the distinct, futuristic interior and exterior design made possible by the platform which landed Mitsubishi the award.
Mitsubishi president Osamu Masuko said "We are honored to receive this significant award today with our "i" minicar that has found favor with customers for its outstanding and futuristic design. We will keep working on the development of customer-oriented models with this unique "rear-midship layout" platform that brings new levels of ride comfort and impact safety together with innovative design."
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| (Photo: Mitsubishi) |
The ideology for the i was simple enough- to create a new minicar which overcame the tradeoffs commonly associated with being very, very small. These include space, performance, comfort and safety, and they no longer need to loose out to one another.
Mitsubishi developed a unique "rear midship layout" in which the engine is mounted ahead of the rear axle. Among the benefits to this setup are increased safety, better weight distribution which aids in sharper handling, and a more spacious and upbeat interior.
 |
| (Photo: Mitsubishi) |
Mitsubishi president Osamu Masuko said "We are honored to receive this significant award today with our "i" minicar that has found favor with customers for its outstanding and futuristic design. We will keep working on the development of customer-oriented models with this unique "rear-midship layout" platform that brings new levels of ride comfort and impact safety together with innovative design."