Mitsubishi will be unveiling the Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept at this week’s 2017 Tokyo Motor Show. The showcar brings back the “Evolution” name, but in a different form, and with new technology for the future. The concept crossover will feature a triple electric motor 4WD system and the company’s artificial intelligence system. It couldn’t be further away from everybody’s favourite (or second favourite) rally replica.
But Mitsubishi says that there’s more to the car, design and technology at TMS, as the concept machine ushers in a new beginning for the company, the start of a new chapter.
The e-Evolution Concept is described as “the embodiment of Mitsubishi Motors’ renewed global strategy”, “a demonstration of Mitsubishi Motors’ ambition to explore a new future – inside and outside of the company”, and “the return of Mitsubishi’s inner brand essence”.
The said brand essence consists of MMC’s pedigree, the company’s stance on technology and design, its approach to global business, and Mitsubishi’s connection with its customers/drivers.
This is the first home motor show for Mitsubishi after it was rescued by Nissan last year following a fuel economy test manipulation scandal. It’s now part of the Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Alliance, and Carlos Ghosn – the man who turned Nissan around – is heading the company.
Last week, it was reported that MMC plans to spend over 600 billion yen ($5.35 billion) in capital expenditure and R&D over the next three years through fiscal year 2019, as part of a bid to turn around its business.
Last month, the Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Alliance revealed its Alliance 2022 six-year plan with eye-popping numbers. With MMC joining the party, objectives have grown – they include the doubling of annual synergies to €10 billion by the end of the plan, with more than nine million vehicles to share four common platforms. The use of common powertrains will cover 75% of total sales.
“To achieve this target, on one side Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi will accelerate collaboration on common platforms, powertrains and next-generation electric, autonomous and connected technologies. From the other side, synergies will be enhanced by our growing scale. Our total annual sales are forecast to exceed 14 million units, generating revenues expected at $240 billion by the end of the plan,” said Ghosn, chairman and CEO of the Alliance.
Full story on the Alliance 2022 plan here.
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Mitsu should at least offer something in the traditional segment (sedan & hatches) rather than just throwing their resources on the SUV segment. The design elements of the Mitsu e-Evolution concept looks exciting though, if only a hatchback/sedan version is also built.