With the 'i' concept, Mitsubishi proposes its vision for an "innovative new-age minicar". The most original solution is the rear-midship layout, which brings benefits in terms of cabin roominess and enables an all-directional crashworthiness behaviour.

Design

The absence of the engine at the front allows the purposeful cab-forward stance and also allows the wheels to be placed further forward.
The one-motion silhouette appears to cocoon its occupants, while the large diameter wheels and tires and the 2550mm super-long wheelbase combine to project a sense of movement.

Inside the 'i', extra cabin room is brought by the rear-midship layout; the large windshield and forward sloping beltline create a space that is airy and open.
The smooth surface, and low-line dashboard appears to hover and adds to the airiness of the cockpit while the use of accent colors in the rounded seats injects a pleasant tautness to the cabin.

Engine and Safety

Mitsubishi 'i' is powered by a brand new 3-cylinder intercooler-turbocharged MIVEC engine that delivers 47 kW (64 HP) of power. The use of a silent camshaft drive chain and increased engine rigidity has reduced noise and vibration levels.

For what concerns safety, the rear-midship layout locates the engine towards the rear of the body, thus providing a sizeable front crushable zone that reconciles the conflicting requirements of good crashworthiness and a comfortably generous interior length.

Mitsubishi 'i' Concept - Technical Specifications

(Source: Mitsubishi)