GEC NEWS WIREThe Mitsubishi e-Evolution is a technical prototype that illustrates the strategic directions of a renewed Mitsubishi Motor Corporation, MMC, brand that incorporates the strengths of SUV, EV, and the ability to integrate new systems for a connected mobility customer experience.
The Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept design expresses the readiness to grip the ground with all four-wheels, and the agility of a high-performance cross-country tourer coupled with MMC’s long and strong heritage of proven off-road performance, along with superior 4WD control.
The front face is a fresh take on MMC’s Archetypal Dynamic Shield, which can now can be seen on the new 2020 Outlander PHEV, 2020 Montero Sport and 2020 ASX design. The black grille is shielded under glass to give the car a subtle rendition that it is a high-performance electric vehicle. Protected under the glass, and accentuated by blue lines for emphasis, sit cameras and sensors. Large air intakes are located beneath the headlamps, ready to cool the electric brake callipers. Adding to the vehicle’s excellent aerodynamics, the drawn-in air passes jet tailfins on the C-pillars before exiting on either side of the rear bumper.
A sharply slanted front windshield and short overhangs give the Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept a unique side profile that has not been possible before the arrival of electric propulsion. High ground clearance, short overhangs, strong shoulders, and narrow hips project nimbleness and agility. Muscular tires that protrude at the four corners communicate powerful 4WD torque. Bars running from front to rear along either side of the roof to enhance the vehicle’s muscular attitude. The large hexagon shape at the rear, draws inspiration from the spare tire cover of the quintessential SUV, the legendary Pajero.
Inside, the cockpit of the Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept shows that its designers had the freedom to go beyond the traditional firewall. The Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept is powered by three torqueful electric motors, and the absence of a big internal combustion engine under the hood gave designers the space to realise a radically novel cockpit. Its instrument panel appears to float in front of the driver. The instrument panel adopts MMC’s trademark horizontal styling, with the focus on information above the axis and on operation below. Acting like a level in an electronic viewfinder, the horizontal instrument panel makes it easier to sense the state of the vehicle during driving.
A large flat screen spans the full width of the dashboard. It displays outside conditions, navigation and coaching information. The large screen is flanked by two smaller screens, showing images from front and rear cameras. Full-glass windows provide near unobstructed 360-degree visibility, for a feeling more akin to a jet fighter than a car.
Technology
Electric Vehicle system
The Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept uses high-torque, high-performance electric motors, fed by a high-capacity battery system to deliver the smooth and powerfully responsive performance that distinguishes EVs from Internal Combustion Engine-powered vehicles. To provide a low centre of gravity for utmost driving stability, the drive battery has been located under the floor mid-ship of the vehicle.
4WD system
For exceptional driving performance, the triple motor 4WD system employs a single motor to drive the front wheels, complemented by a new Dual Motor Active Yaw Control system that couples two rear motors through an electronically controlled torque-vectoring AYC unit. All of this is integrated into MMC’s unique Super All-Wheel Control vehicle dynamic control system. Cornering performance and traction performance are improved. The brakes responsively and precisely control the driving forces with the help of electric callipers that supersede the conventional hydraulic calliper.
Artificial Intelligence system
The brain of the Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept is an AI system that augments the driver’s capabilities. An array of sensors allows the AI system to instantly read changes in road and traffic conditions, as well as the driver’s intent to support drivers of all abilities by making it easier and safer to control the vehicle. A special coaching function allows the AI system to transfer knowledge to the driver, and to unobtrusively enhance the driving expertise. After building a picture of the driver’s skill level, the system constructs a training programme 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.
Masahiko Takahashi, President at Mitsubishi Motors Middle East and Africa says, “Our global tagline, Drive your Ambition, amplifies Mitsubishi Motors’ commitment and efforts in creating vehicles that are exciting, dynamic, tough, Innovative, and smart to cater for customers’ needs around the world. This year, we are proud to present for the first time ever in the Middle East the Regional Preview of the Mitsubishi e-Evolution concept car, which embodies the company’s new adventurous and progressive brand strategy.”
