OREANDA-NEWS. Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced it has developed a new concept car, the EMIRAI 2, featuring an electric vehicle (EV) powertrain and driving-assistance system for safe, comfortable, eco-friendly driving experiences in the future. Two versions of the EMIRAI 2 will be exhibited during the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show 2013 at the Tokyo Big Sight exhibition complex in Tokyo, Japan from November 23 to December 1.

At the previous Tokyo Motor Show, Mitsubishi Electric exhibited its EMIRAI EV concept car, which was developed under the Intelligent Connect concept of linking cars and diverse information for greater convenience, eco-friendliness and safety. Building on the EMIRAI, Mitsubishi Electric has now developed the EMIRAI 2, which comes in two versions: the EMIRAI 2 xEV features an EV powertrain for improved maneuverability and safety, and the EMIRAI 2 xDAS is equipped with a driving-assistance system for greater driving safety and comfort.

The EMIRAI 2 xEV is a four-wheel-drive EV with a maximum output of 125kW. It is equipped with three motors, one to drive the front wheels and two to drive the left and right rear wheels independently. Built with Mitsubishi Electric's proprietary original motor control technology, the vehicle promises a high-quality EV driving experience on any road condition.

Traction control is important for safe driving on snowy roads, where tires can easily lose traction. The EMIRAI 2 xEV identifies tire slippage by controlling motor torque every 1msec (1/1000th of a second). If slippage is detected, motor output is precisely lowered to match the degree of slippage. The driver is informed when traction control is activated via an icon on the Intelligent Information Panel.

The EMIRAI 2 xEV's Smooth-G Control enhances acceleration both from a full stop and when under way to provide smooth acceleration without unexpected jolts. If vibration caused by increased motor torque is detected, torque is controlled to eliminate unpleasant sensations. Smooth-G Control also enhances the pleasurable sensation of acceleration by smoothly controlling torque startup with respect to the car's structural characteristics.

The EMIRAI 2 xEV's Low-speed Level Control enables the driver to maintain constant low speed on uneven roads, which is not possible with internal-combustion vehicles. For example, when driving over speed bumps or on graded roads, motor output torque is instantly controlled in response to differences in road level to eliminate unnecessary acceleration or braking, making it easy to maintain the car's desired position.