Mitsubishi i-MiEV

Mitsubishi i-MiEV

Mitsubishi Motor might be an also-ran among Japan's automakers, but it's at the forefront of developing electric vehicles. This month it will begin delivering its i-MiEV electric vehicle in Japan, making it the first major automaker to begin mass-producing EVs. This year Mitsubishi will make 2,000 of the i-MiEV, which is based on the "i" minicar, before increasing production next year. Mitsubishi, which will lease the first run, is also taking orders from retail customers willing to pay $33,000 (including a $15,000 subsidy) for delivery next spring. Exports start from 2010.