Mitsubishi has revealed the “e-EVOLUTION CONCEPT” at the Tokyo motor show. The all-electric SUV is a technical prototype created as an expression of the brand’s so-called “Robust & Ingenious” design philosophy, and most likely previews a Nissan Juke-rival that is expected to launch sometime in 2018/19.
Outwardly, the face represents a fresh take on Mitsubishi’s “DYNAMIC SHIELD” design although in this instance the black grille sits behind a glass cover, accentuated by blue lines, which also protects a series of cameras and sensors required for the car’s driving system. Large air intakes are located beneath the headlamps to direct cooling air to the electric brake calipers, while a sharply slanted front windshield and short overhangs form a key component of the side profile.
Other key styling details include high ground clearance, strong shoulders and narrow hips, while muscular tyres protruding at the four corners hint at the car’s 4WD traction. Bars running from front to rear along either side of the roof add to the vehicle’s SUV look, while air drawn-in past the C-pillar “jet tailfins” exits on either side of the rear bumper to aid the vehicle’s aerodynamics.
At the rear, the large hexagon shape is said to have been inspired by the spare tyre cover of the famous Mitsubishi Shogun.
Inside, the cabin aims to give a glimpse of what’s possible when the traditional firewall is dispensed with. The instrument panel is designed to ‘float’ in front of the driver, adopting Mitsubishi’s trademark horizontal styling with the focus on information above the axis and on operation below.
A large flat screen spans the full width of the dashboard displaying environmental conditions as well as navigation information. The large screen is flanked by two smaller screens, showing images from front and rear cameras, while panoramic glazing provides increased visibility.
“We aim to provide vehicles that fulfill our customers’ desires through outstanding design, combined with the power, authenticity and carefully-considered functionality Mitsubishi is known for,” says company design boss, Tsunehiro Kunimoto. “Now, the banner of superior, high-performance, 4WD control is carried forward by the Mitsubishi e-EVOLUTION CONCEPT. The design expresses a readiness to grip the ground with all four wheels as well as the agility of a high-performance, cross-country machine.”
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