Mitsubishi Begins Minicab-MiEV Production in Indonesia
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd
In 2024, the Minicab-MiEV, a commercial electric vehicle (EV) belonging to the onebox kei-car class, will be manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors at PT Mitsubishi Motors Krama Yudha Indonesia, the company's production facility in Indonesia.
For the first time, the Minicab-MiEV will be manufactured overseas and feature an electric vehicle (EV) system that has been tested in the i-MiEV, the world's first mass-produced EV. The EV system comprises a drive battery and a highly efficient, compact, and lightweight motor.
Moreover, the EV components are fitted without compromising the vehicle's capacity by situating the drive battery underneath the centre of the floor, which guarantees ample cargo space. Additionally, this battery arrangement ensures that the vehicle has a lower centre of gravity, enhancing steering stability and ride comfort.
"Automakers are now required to respond to the rapid, global movement toward a decarbonised society," said Takao Kato, president and chief executive officer, Mitsubishi Motors. "We believe that Kei-car class commercial EVs are the optimal solution to the 'last one mile problem' in logistics. To meet the growing demand for EVs in the ASEAN region, we have decided to produce this vehicle locally outside of Japan for the first time. As well as continuing to support the development of Indonesia's automotive industry, we hope to contribute to the country's environmental initiatives."
In December 2011, the Minicab-MiEV was launched in Japan by Mitsubishi Motors as the sole Kei-car class commercial EV manufactured by a Japanese automaker and primarily designed for use in the delivery sector. While the company initially discontinued production, sales resumed in November 2022 due to surging demand for commercial EVs, particularly from logistics firms and local authorities engaged in sustainable business practices. Such pursuits are quickly gaining popularity in various industries as the goal of creating a carbon-neutral society becomes increasingly significant.
Source: Mitsubishi Motors
