i MiEV gets the nod for Australia
The Federal Government has given Mitsubishi's i MiEV the nod to drive on Australian roads.
Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said the all-electric car, which today passed its 83 ADR safety requirements, brought Australia a step closer to emissions-free driving.
"If powered by 100 per cent green energy (the car) would result in no emissions,'' Mr Albanese said. "Given that 85 per cent of Australians drive less than 100km a day, this vehicle would suit the lifestyles of most in our community. Australia is the most urbanised country on earth - most of our citizens live in our cities around the coast. In terms of dealing with issues of reducing carbon pollution ... but also the effect of smog in our cities, the effect of noise pollution, all of those are advantaged by this vehicle.''
While the initial cost of the car was higher than comparable vehicles, long-term savings could be made without petrol bills.
"The Government has not been asked to provide incentives - this is a commercial operation by Mitsubishi,'' Mr Albanese said.
Mitsubishi in Japan will enter large-scale production in June for the domestic market, but approval to sell the car in Australia has yet to be granted. Todays ADR pass brings that approval one step closer.
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