Mitsubishi kicks off production of the U.S.-spec Mitsubishi i.

Mitsubishi Motors has officially started production of the North American version of its i-MiEV electric vehicle. The North American version, known as the Mitsubishi i, will first be available in Hawaii, California, Washington and Oregon by the end of November 2011. After that, Mitsubishi aims to expand sales throughout the United States and Canada by the end of fiscal year 2012.

The EPA rates the Mitsubishi i with a range of 62 miles and a combined 112 MPGe figure. The $29,125 Mitsubishi i hatchback will likely be the most affordable electric vehicle in the US. To date, Mitsubishi's cumulative i-MiEV global production volume has exceeded 16,000 units. By adding the US and Canada, the Japanese automakers looks to expand its worldwide market for electric cars.