MITSUBISHI Motors Corp. (MMC) had one of the most conspicuous and eagerly awaited presentations during the Press Day of the 45th Tokyo Motor Show (TMS) when it held the world premier of the e-Evolution Concept on October 25. The e-Evolution Concept, which will be on display at the Tokyo Big Sight until November 5, shared the spotlight with Mitsubishi’s Eclipse Cross, Outlander PHEV, Delica D:5, RVR and eK Custom, among others.
During a dinner hosted by MMC at their Guest House in Takanawa on the day before the opening of the TMS, the Philippine media contingent had a chance to talk to some of MMC’s executives, including Chief Executive Officer Osamu Masuko, Chief Operating Officer Trevor Mann and EVP for Development and Quality Mitsuhiko Yamashita.
According to Yamashita, the Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept will not go into production since it is only a technological prototype to illustrate MMC’s strategic directions, which will incorporate the strengths of sport-utility vehicle, an electric vehicle (EV) and the ability to integrate new systems for a connected mobility customer experience. The e-Evolution Concept is an all-electric high-performance SUV, which embodies MMC’s new brand strategy under their new global tagline “Drive your Ambition.”
According to Mann, they are not totally scratching out its small sedans such as the Lancer, which formed the basis of 10 Evo generations, although it is a declining market all over the globe. “This is one of the reasons we are showing you the e-Evolution Concept, is because it gives an example of what could be done,” Mann said. He gave a hint that, perhaps, the Outlander would eventually share its platform with the Nissan X-Trail by 2020.
The Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept combines the SUV with EV technology, new system appeal and the powerful performance that is deep in the Mitsubishi Motors DNA. However, under the new philosophy, MMC will expand its customer base—influencing its strong pedigree of driving performance and reliability with breakthrough SUVs and crossovers. As a first-mover in electric vehicles, MMC will broaden and accelerate its EV deployment. MMC will push the technological envelope with a tightly integrated system of artificial intelligence, connectivity, onboard and cloud computing.
“The Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept embodies three core values of MMC—SUV new value, EV new value and System new value. It represents a new evolution of the SUV,” Yamashita said.
Robust and ingenious design
The design philosophy of MMC has adopted a design philosophy under the title “Robust & Ingenious.” The design language of the Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept is a study in contrasts. “MMC vehicles of the future are meant to be sincere, tough and functional. At the same time, they will be clever, resourceful, style-setting and technologically advanced,” MMC Head of Global Design Tsunehiro Kunimoto said.
When people think of Mitsubishi, they think about proven off-road performance along with superior 4WD control. Now, the banner of the high-performance 4WD control is carried forward by the e-Evolution Concept. The design expresses the readiness to grip the ground with all four wheels, and the agility of a high-performance cross-country tourer.
The front face design of the e-Evolution is a fresh take on MMC’s archetypal Dynamic Shield Design. The black grille is shielded under glass and under the glass are cameras and sensors. Large air intakes are located beneath the headlamps, ready to cool the electric brake calipers. 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 vehicle 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.
The large hexagon shape at the rear draws inspiration from the spare tire cover of the legendary Mitsubishi Pajero, a hallmark of off-road driving and one of the most iconic chapters of MMC’s heritage.
The Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept has three torquey electric motors under the hood instead of a big, conventional internal combustion engine, which gave designers the space to realize a radically novel cockpit. Its instrument panel appears to float in front of the driver—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.
The triple motor 4WD system employs a single motor to drive the front wheels, complemented by a new Dual Motor Active Yaw Control (AYC) 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 (S-AWC) vehicle dynamic control system. Cornering performance and traction performance are improved. The brakes of the e-Evolution Concept responsively and precisely control the driving forces with the help of electric calipers that supersede the conventional hydraulic caliper. The effects of the system can be felt and appreciated immediately, even at low speeds when G-forces are low. Whether driving around town, on expressways, or winding roads, the fully electric vehicle always provides crisp and nimble handling that faithfully mirrors driver intent.
“We aim to provide vehicles that fulfill our customers’ desires through outstanding design, combined with the power, authenticity and carefully considered functionality Mitsubishi Motors is known for,” Kunimoto added.
Artificial intelligence system
The brain of the Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept is an artificial intelligence 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. Seamlessly coordinating driver intent with vehicle performance, the system supports drivers of all abilities. 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 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.
“The onboard AI system brings new advantages. It supports the driver in every situation. Mitsubishi will continue to push electrification, primarily among its core models. The plan is to standardize components with a focus on our PHEV system,” Yamashita added.
Back on track
During his opening speech at the TMS, Masuko said, “Since the last two Tokyo Motor Show two years ago, a dramatic change happened at Mitsubishi Motors.”
Last year MMC became a member of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance and he said that they can now share advanced technologies for electric, autonomous and connected vehicles.
“We do everything to restore the confidence of our customers and the public. A few days ago, we announced our midterm business plan ‘Drive for Growth.’ The goal of this plan is to build a foundation for sustainable growth. To the world, we will show the power of monozukuri and the strength of the gemba,” Masuko said.
He also added MMC will make proactive and continuous investments into even more attractive vehicles. The world of automobiles is at a turning point. Automobiles are about to reach unprecedented levels of safety, peace of mind and convenience.
“MMC is part of this turning point,” Masuko said. Sophisticated technologies and new values are our contribution to this rich world of exciting automobiles. The new values we provide give customers an experience never had before. We are the brand for customers who want to expand their activities and meet new challenges.”
Image credits: Tet Andolong