Mitsubishi MR platform

Mitsubishi MR platform

Manufacturer	Mitsubishi Motors
Production	January 2006–present
Class	Kei car
Wheelbase	2,550–2,600 mm (100.4–102.4 in)
Vehicles	Mitsubishi i

The Mitsubishi MR platform is an automobile platform first developed by Mitsubishi Motors in 2003 for their Mitsubishi i kei car. The name is derived from the Mid-engined, Rear-wheel drive ("MR") configuration, which locates the powertrain behind the rear seat and just ahead of the rear axle. This allows for a longer wheelbase and a consequently more spacious interior without compromising crash-worthiness or fuel economy.^[1]

The company has also used the platform in several of its concept cars, particularly those using alternative propulsion. The i-Concept^[2] and Se-Ro^[3] were the first publicly exhibited vehicles to use the MR platform, as they previewed the production version of the i at motor shows in advance of the car's release. Since then, the Concept-CT,^[4] i-MiEV,^[5] and i MiEV Sport^[6] battery electric concept cars all exploited the MR platform.

References

1. ^ "Development of “i” Concept Test Car for 2003 IAA and 2003 Tokyo Motor Show", Mitsubishi Motors Technical Review 2004 no.16, pp.29-30
2. ^ ""i" Concept Test Car", Mitsubishi Motors website
3. ^ "Mitsubish Sero concept for the Tokyo Motor Show", Car Design News, October 16, 2003
4. ^ "Mitsubishi Motors Lineup at 2006 North American International Auto Show", Mitsubishi Motors press release, January 10, 2006
5. ^ "Mitsubishi Motors builds new research EV, "i MiEV" for joint research with power companies", Mitsubishi Motors press release, October 11, 2006
6. ^ "Mitsubishi Motors lineup at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show", Mitsubishi Motors press release, September 7, 2007