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\ABS\Auto Blog Samurai\data\insurance\wwwallstatecom\mitsubishi+s+i+miev+concept+has+innovative+new+features_16000325_800567847_0_0_7036686_300.jpg "Mitsubishi''s i-MiEV concept has innovative new features.")
In response to the energy crisis—one magnified in Japan as a result of problems with nuclear power plants—the auto industry is working to come up with innovative solutions to improve energy use. While energy-saving cars have rapidly entered the mainstream automotive world, vehicle manufacturers look to further the popularity and use of these vehicles through efficient and impressive technologies.
Mitsubishi announces new features
Japanese car manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors has unveiled upcoming features for its i-MiEV electric car model. The Wall Street Journal reports the manufacturer is developing a feature that would allow owners to power household appliances with the same battery that powers the engine.
This feature is dependent on the completion of an AC Power Supply EZ adaptor. The news source explains the manufacturer expects to release this new technology before 2012. The company expects the technology to be capable of powering small appliances, such as microwaves, for over 24 hours.
Why would drivers want a microwave?
In a statement, the company stated: "today more and more people are looking to the EV both as a means to address environmental issues and also to address the pressures on the demand and supply of energy."
The news source reports the manufacturer intends to make their battery a new, alternative source of energy. The company believes this energy source will be especially helpful in the event of a disaster like the earthquake and tsunami that plagued Japan earlier this year.
Downsides to vehicle design
Some automotive experts believe the i-MiEV has more drawbacks than perks. Car and Driver points out that this model, after test drives, is not expected to be capable of reaching 100 miles a charge. Additionally, the costs of the car are projected to be around $30,000, while the standard recharge times can take up to 12 hours.
Still, the automotive magazine believes this car will be useful for certain drivers, as the primary purpose of the model is not cross-country drives. Rather, the car is intended as an eco-friendly solution for consumers with a need for cheap, short-distance drives.
With the addition of features such as the AC Power Supply EZ adapter, this model appears to be a creative step toward combating the effects of the energy crisis on the transportation industry.
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