Mitsubishi i-MiEV License Plate Bulb Size

Additional Notes

• The Mitsubishi i-MiEV uses the 12961 bulb for its license plate lighting across all listed model years (2012-2017).
• The 12961 is a Philips part number designating a miniature wedge bulb in the T10 form factor, which is one of the most widely used bulb types in automotive auxiliary lighting positions.
• The T10 designation refers to the bulb's tubular shape, with the number indicating a width of 10 millimeters across the envelope.
• The 12961 uses a W2.1x9.5d wedge base, a baseless design where the glass envelope itself is pinched at the bottom to form the electrical contacts, eliminating the need for a separate metal base.
• The bulb operates at 12 volts and 5 watts, which is standard for low-current auxiliary positions such as license plate, courtesy, and side marker lighting.
• The W2.1x9.5d base type is shared by a broad range of T10 miniature bulbs, meaning physical fitment compatibility extends across many bulbs carrying this base specification, though voltage and wattage ratings still require verification before substitution.
• The i-MiEV is an electric vehicle, and its license plate circuit still operates on a 12-volt auxiliary battery system rather than the high-voltage traction battery, which is consistent with the 12V rating of the 12961 bulb.