Nissan’s 2019 concept of an electric minicar. Image via Nissan
With its notoriously congested roads, minicars are one new way Japan is handling small urban spaces. And considering the exploding market of sustainable automobiles, Nissan and Mitsubishi are taking things further—not only are they launching a mini-vehicle, but it’s also going to be electric.
Anticipated for launch in 2022, the mini four-seater EV will measure just under 3.4 meters (11 feet) long, 1.4 meters (4.6 feet) wide, and 1.6 meters (4.2 feet) tall, allowing families to traverse the country’s busy traffic with more ease. It will also sport the “instant acceleration, smooth driving, and cabin quietness” that drivers appreciate about EVs.
The minicar is more suited for short trips, given its comparably little 20kWh battery capacity; for context, TNW points out that a regular EV gets 60kWh to 100kWh. Nonetheless, the car’s compact size enables it to get around rural areas where public transport is less accessible.
It’s not to be underestimated too. The car will be built with some nifty features, like driverless valet parking, a virtual assistant, and the ability to be locked and unlocked remotely.
When not in use, the mini-vehicle’s battery can be utilized to provide electricity at home, or as a portable power source.
One gripe: the minicar will only be available to the Japanese market as a solution to the lack of space in its cities. It will go for sale at an expected retail price of JP¥2 million (US$18,199).
While Nissan and Mitsubishi haven’t disclosed the car’s design details or specs, yet, Nissan envisioned a mini EV back in 2019, which you can view below.
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