Photos

i MiEV Sport gets auxiliary "green" power from a photovoltaic generator on the roof. (Photo courtesy of Mitsubishi Motor Sales of America)

TOKYO — The engineers at Mitsubishi are fond of wrapping their high-tech toys in wacky sheet metal. Their latest auto-show creation, the oddly named i MiEV Sport, follows that formula, with a vaguely ovoid shape that resembles a cross between the Volkswagen Beetle and the Stout Scarab.

Entomological references aside, the i MiEV Sport represents "the pinnacle of environmental technology," according to Mitsubishi. Based on the earlier i MiEV, the latest variant puts a bit more emphasis on performance.

The four-passenger i MiEV Sport uses three electric motors, with a motor in each of the front wheels and a single motor driving the rear wheels. A lithium-ion battery pack is installed under the floor, and other components are mounted below the luggage compartment. Mitsubishi's S-AWC system integrates traction, stability, braking and yaw control. The vehicle rides on 175/40R17 tires.

Combined output of the three motors is 117 horsepower, with an impressive 500 pound-feet of torque. Mitsubishi says the i MiEV Sport has a top speed of 112 mph. Range is 124 miles between charges.

The vehicle also employs a lightweight but highly rigid aluminum space frame. The car is painted a light pearlescent green, with metallic and mesh interior trim accented by blue LEDs. A photovoltaic generator on the roof provides auxiliary power, as does a power-generating fan behind the grille.

What this means to you: As Grandpa used to say, she ain't much for looks, but she's hell for stout.