<p>I have to admit I was slightly skeptical about <a title=”Mitsubishi’s ” href=”http://i.mitsubishicars.com/” target=”_blank”>Mitsubishi’s “I”</a> electric car before I arrived at the 2011 MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR in Puyallup, Washington. I’ve loosely followed the development of the i/MiEV over the years, but never had the impression it would be right for much more than a niche market. When I heard that Mitsubishi would be one of the main sponsors of the Puyallup FAIR, I was excited because I knew I’d be able to confirm whether my suspicions were right or wrong through hands-on time with the car. </p>
<p>After a ride and a drive, I’m happy to say that I was completely wrong. </p>
<p>The I is a <em>great </em>electric car, one that could be ideal for many people. It’s smooth, zippy, nimble and spacious. It’s fun to drive and functional for families because of its rear passenger/cargo room. It’s obviously a superbly designed electric car thanks to both its drive and its ride. The three units of the car have been turning heads and creating buzz at the FAIR. </p>
<p>Perhaps best of all, at $20,490 (after a $,7,500 federal tax credit), the I will be the most affordable electric car on the market. </p>
<p>I’m really looking forward to getting more time with the car on Sunday, and seeing how the U.S. market responds to this electric car. </p>
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<em>John Rockhold is a green car enthusiast and Contributing Editor for </em>MOTHER EARTH NEWS<em>. Find him on </em>
<a title=”Google+” href=”https://plus.google.com/115685506254736536488/” target=”_blank” rel=”author”>Google+</a>.</p>