Japanese automaker Mitsubishi holds an important place in the history of electric vehicles. Its all-electric i-MiEV minicar helped usher in the current era for EVs. The innovative small car offered only about 60 miles of range, but in the early 2010s, it provided a zero-emission option for commuters when few other electric models were available.
The i-MiEV was discontinued in 2017, but it led directly to the development of the Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid. The Outlander's plug-in version is the most affordable full-size SUV that offers enough all-electric range for most daily driving. On a global level, the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid is one of the world’s most popular electric models.
Mitsubishi continues to develop future EVs and plug-in hybrids, and the company is part of an alliance that includes Nissan and Renault. The trio of automakers will share motors and battery systems. By 2023, the coalition is expected to produce a portfolio of new electric vehicles, including subcompacts, small cars, and SUVs.