Whether it’s the soft buzz as you push the accelerator or the strikingly modern aesthetic, the new Mitsubishi i-MiEV resounds futurism. Furthermore, the i-MiEV speaks specifically to the future of our environment; it powers along with zero emissions when recharged using renewable energy. The i-MiEV is arguably, an insight into the future of urban driving.

Based on the 660cc “i” series Japanese miniature car, the i-MiEV comes with a hefty price tag. Similar to most other innovative inventions in their infancy, the i-MiEV is exclusive and expensive. Expected to be priced at $60-70k a pop in Australia, the i-MiEV is expensive for what it is; essentially a humbly kitted compact car that is efficient and has a good drive train. I wouldn’t expect to see too many of these buzzing around the neighbourhood any time soon though – and I won’t, because Mitsubishi is yet to announce a public sale date. Could be 2011, but who knows.

The test model I drove (an exclusively leased fleet model) wasn’t decked out in leather, which dampened my enthusiasm a bit. Had it been, it would undoubtedly sell more proficiently. However, it still makes sense for urban city dwellers. Although not the first of its kind, the i-MiEV is an electric vehicle, making it efficient. In an age of carbon consciousness, efficiency is rapidly becoming a weightier consideration when buying a car. It is distinct from the wave of ‘hybrids’ we have seen in recent times, with just one electric motor, no gearbox and a lithium-ion battery. Unlike the hybrid cars out there, the i-MiEV carries no form of redundancy, with its electric-dedicated system. The i-MiEV still entails some minimal costs of recharging with renewable energy (about four dollars) however this easily works out in the driver’s favour – fuel bills are completely obliterated. A complete recharge generally takes about 7 hours, draining the same amount of energy as two toasters. Topping the power up between trips takes much less time. A full charge will power the i-MiEV anywhere from 140-160 kilometres around town. Not bad huh. In the future in Australia, the development of “fast charge” stations will enable a near-full charge in half an hour.

Efficiency is accompanied by easy operation. It seats four adults and its power range satisfies the regular driving needs of most Australia city dwellers. I certainly wouldn’t recommend this as a great first car for the family though – not with family road-trips and the often-long Saturday stints carting children back and forth from sports in faraway suburbs. It could be ideal as a secondary family vehicle responsible for the work commute, short drives to the shops and for dropping the kids at school. It is primly suited to the city-slicking driver who commutes less than 100km per day.

So it’s efficient and trundles along with ease – but how does it drive? Well, with its 2550mm wheelbase, a voltage of 330 volts and an output of 16kWh, the i-MiEV powers considerably well considering its modest energy consumption. Torque is available from rest and comes in at a potent 180nM. There is only one gear (due to lack of gearbox) but three settings are available – Drive, Eco and Brake, providing full power, ‘economical’ power and regenerative charge, respectively. While the first few metres are sedate, once you get going the acceleration is strong (and eerily silent, mind you) for a small car. With the absence of noise, people probably won’t hear you coming but once they catch a glimpse of the i-MiEV they’ll be sure to take serious notice.

Internally, the i-MiEV is light and functional. Characterised by plain cloth seats, a plastic dashboard, thin metal garnishes, the interior is not unnecessarily garnished. A little disappointing in my opinion – the model I drove looked more like a cheaper compact car inside (not to mention the lack of leather). Perhaps the trim offered in Australia in the future will be more in keeping (internally) with the high premium price point. You would want to hope so. Nevertheless, it’s reasonably comfortable and understated. Rear shoulder space isn’t ideal for taller (or wider) passengers, as the i-MiEV is slender. Legroom is surprisingly good though. Though not extremely spacious, there is ample room for moderately sized adults and children. You can’t expect too much space from any small car though. A pleasant interior to be enjoyed during short trips; the type of commute the i-MiEV is precisely aimed at.

As the electric motor is located in the rear above the wheels, hatch boot space is limited. You could still fit your shopping in, or a few holiday bags, but it is definitely shallow. However, the rear seats do split-fold allowing for maximized space.

If asked to compare the i-MiEv with other vehicles, I couldn’t; it really sits in its own league. However, I was impressed with the ease of the drive and how trouble-free it was to adapt to its operation. While the range is somewhat limited due to the battery capability, this vehicle definitely speaks to the future. Eerily quiet, lacking in leather, expensive and not so impressive on the inside, the i-MiEV might not be the next big thing, but it is definitely a flag-bearer for the development of electric and urban motoring.