Mitsubishi Miev - User Manual

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Summary

Driving Your Mitsubishi i

Starting the Vehicle

Steps to start the electric vehicle and confirm readiness.

Drive Modes Explained

Details on using D, Eco, and B drive mode selector positions.

Understanding the Energy Gauge

Charging Your Mitsubishi i

Charging Safety and Warnings

Precautions for pacemaker users and electrical safety.

Power Down Indicator Explained

Charging Methods and Levels

Procedures for Level 1, Level 2, and Quick Charging.

Mitsubishi MiEV Remote

Remote Functions and Usage Tips

Setting Remote Timers and Controls

Steps to program timers and adjust climate control via remote.

Frequently Asked Questions

Battery Care and Storage Information

Vehicle Operation and Troubleshooting

Addressing starting issues, warning lights, and roadside assistance.

The provided manual describes the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, a 100% electric vehicle designed for the North American market. This owner's handbook focuses on the unique technology and operational aspects of the electric car, aiming to prepare the owner for the road and highlight its environmental and economic benefits.

Function Description:

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV is a fully electric car that operates without gasoline, relying solely on electric power for propulsion. Its primary function is personal transportation, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles. The car is equipped with a main drive lithium-ion battery that powers the electric motor, and a 12-volt starter battery that supports various auxiliary systems. The vehicle features regenerative braking, which converts motion energy back into electric energy to charge the main drive battery, thereby extending the driving range. An Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) is integrated to emit an audible warning at low speeds (0 to 22 mph) to alert pedestrians to the approaching electric vehicle.

Important Technical Specifications:

Power Source: 100% electric, powered by a main drive lithium-ion battery.
Range: Tested EPA combined range of 62 miles.
Charging: Supports three levels of charging:
- Level 1 (Regular charging): Uses a standard A/C 120 Volt outlet (15 amp dedicated circuit required). Charging time: approximately 22 hours (120V/8A) or 14 hours (120V/12A) for a fully discharged battery.
- Level 2 (Regular charging): Uses a 220-240V Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). Charging time: approximately 6 hours for a fully discharged battery.
- Quick Charging (Level 3 Std.): Utilizes CHAdeMO certified public charging stations. Achieves up to 80% charge in approximately 30 minutes.
Battery Type: Main drive battery is a lithium-ion battery. A separate 12-volt starter battery is also present.
AVAS Operation: Sounds an audible warning from 0 to 22 miles per hour.
MiEV Remote Range: Up to 300 feet when unobstructed, with antennae extended to full height.

Usage Features:

Starting the Vehicle: Requires inserting the key, pressing the brake pedal, turning the key to "On" (checking warning lights), and then to "Start" until the startup bell sounds and the "READY" indicator light illuminates.
Drive Modes:
- D (Drive): Standard mode for normal driving, providing full power access and normal regenerative braking.
- Eco: Limits power consumption and maximizes driving range by slightly reducing overall power and increasing regenerative braking.
- B (Brake Mode): Provides full power with the strongest calibration of regenerative braking, ideal for downhill driving and strong regenerative braking.
Energy Level Gauge: Indicates remaining power in the main drive battery. Flashing indicators and charging bars signal low battery charge, and the "Power Down Warning (Turtle) Light" illuminates when no bars remain, indicating an urgent need to recharge.
Energy Use Indicator: A needle on the dashboard shows real-time electrical power consumption.
- Charge Zone: Needle in this area indicates electric energy is being charged back to the battery (regenerative braking).
- Eco Zone: Needle in this area indicates maximized range through efficient power use.
- Power Zone: Needle in this area indicates higher power usage, reducing overall range.
Extending Driving Range:
- Climate Control: Pre-heating/cooling the cabin while plugged into a Level 1 or 2 charger using the MiEV Remote draws power from the outlet, conserving battery.
- Seat Heater: More energy-efficient than the cabin heater for staying warm.
- MAX Switch: Use sparingly for quick temperature adjustments, as it consumes significant energy.
- Driving Style: Smooth acceleration, gentle driving, and maintaining consistent speeds (especially in Eco mode) help extend range.
- Deceleration: Taking the foot off the accelerator early allows for effective regenerative braking, particularly in B mode downhill.
Audio System: Features FM/AM radio, CD player, and USB connectivity for memory devices or iPods. Includes clock setting functionality.
Bluetooth® Operation with FUSE Hands-free Link System™: Allows for hands-free calling using voice commands. Features include making calls by number or phonebook, answering incoming calls, and importing phonebook contacts.
MiEV Remote: A controller for managing vehicle settings remotely.
- Functions: Pre-activate climate control, set timed battery charging (for off-peak hours), view battery level information, and turn charging on/off.
- Range: Up to 300 feet (unobstructed, with extended antenna).
- Display: Shows charging status, error indicators, battery charge, timer status, and climate control settings.
Navigation System: Provides point of interest (POI) search by name or category, address/intersection search, and the ability to set waypoints and save addresses.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Alerts the driver to low tire pressure. Changes in outside temperature can affect tire pressure and trigger the TPMS light.
Tire Repair Kit: Stored under the rear seat cushion. Specific conditions (e.g., large punctures, sidewall damage, completely flat tire, damaged wheel) prohibit its use, requiring Roadside Assistance.

Maintenance Features:

Battery Lifespan: Repeatedly charging the battery when it is almost full may decrease its overall lifespan. To protect the battery, quick charging completes at 80% of a full charge.
Long-Term Storage: For extended storage, ensure the main drive battery's Energy Level Gauge shows 2-4 bars, all lights are off, and do not disconnect any battery cables. Avoid leaving the battery charged with more than 4 bars, as this can severely decrease its lifespan. Check residual battery charge every 3 months and recharge to 2-4 bars if discharged. Avoid storage in extreme hot or cold environments.
Servicing: Only Mitsubishi i authorized dealers are factory trained to service the vehicle.
Roadside Assistance: Available for emergencies, with a provided contact number.
Charging Outlet Safety: Always use a dedicated, properly grounded, and waterproofed 120 Volt outlet for Level 1 charging. Do not use extension cords. Ensure the outlet is free of rust or corrosion.
Medical Device Warning: Individuals with implantable cardiac pacemakers or cardiovascular defibrillators should consult their medical device manufacturer regarding the effects of charging or driving the vehicle, as the Mitsubishi i's design, while complying with ICNIRP International Guidelines, may not be compatible with all medical devices.