UPDATE: Updated with more photos, info (10/5).
Mitsubishi Motors just announced their centerpiece at the upcoming 45th Tokyo Motor Show in October. And it’s a concept car with a very familiar name: Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept.
Given Mitsubishi’s current circumstances (they were bought out by Nissan), they are confident of “waving the flag to usher a new era of long-term growth and sustainable development.”
Leading the way for the company is this new concept which could spell the future direction of Mitsubishi’s famed high-performance Evolution nameplate. Since the name has an “e” prefix attached to it, it’s a given that it will have an electric powertrain. Specifically, it has three high-torque, high-performance electric motors (one attached to the front wheels and two attached to each rear wheel).
The unique engine layout also enables Mitsubishi to employ what it calls Dual Motor Active Yaw Control (AYC) that provides crisp and nimble handling no matter the situation.
Meanwhile, the e-Evolution Concept comes with an Artificial Intelligence (AI) system that uses an array of sensors to instantly read changes in road and traffic conditions as well as the driver’s intent. Then, it seamlessly matches the driver’s intention to that of the car’s performance making driving easier and safer.
The AI system even has a special coaching function to transfer knowledge to the driver. After building a picture of the driver's skill level, the system constructs a training program that provides advice through voice dialogue and a large dashboard display. As a result, drivers of all abilities quickly experience a vehicle that behaves the way they want it, and soon they find themselves enjoying the driving experience to an even greater degree.
While that sounds like a bummer, Mitsubishi isn’t finished ruining the memories of the Evolution yet. They’ve announced that the e-Evolution features a “low-slung aerodynamic SUV Coupe shape.” Yes, you read that right, the Evolution, like the Eclipse, is being reborn as an SUV. Double bummer.
Whatever you make of the news, we’ll be sure to give you more details on the Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept as we hit the halls of the 45th Tokyo Motor Show in October.
What?!?!? The evo as an SUV?!?! Blasphemy!!!
ReplyDeleteWhat would be better is if they designated the EVO as a performance division that transforms their pedestrian offerings into a sportier version. Much like AMG to mercedes and Mdivision to BMW. Imagine having an ASX evo or Pajero evo or eclipse evo
ReplyDeleteIt wouldn't be beyond Mitsubishi. It's possible to have Evolution as their high performance brand. Let's see.
DeleteThe problem before with the Lancer Evolution was it was so overpriced. Imagine the Evo 10 manual (GSR) cost 3.2m++ while automatic (MR) cost 3.7m++.
ReplyDeleteIm sure Mitsubishi will do better this time, even if they'll make it as an SUV version. The more choices, the better for us consumers. F*ck those politicians though re excise tax law.