Mitsubishi e-Evolution concept doubles down on future EVs, crossovers

TOKYO -- Mitsubishi looks to double down on a future centered on both electric vehicles and crossovers with its e-Evolution concept.

The all-electric crossover concept is less a hint at a specific future model and more of a showcase of future vehicle design and technologies, according to the automaker. Dubbed a "technological prototype," it debuted Wednesday at the Tokyo auto show in Japan.

"This is just trying to tickle your intellect and say 'an EV is not an apology car, it's the future of transportation,'" Vincent Cobee, general manager for Mitsubishi's product strategy said on the eve of the e-Evolution's debut. "This is one example to provoke folks but it is also clearly a symbol of where we want to go from a product development point of view."

No powertrain details were released for the e-Evolution though Mitsubishi did say the concept's batteries were integrated into the floor in the middle of the vehicle. It uses three electric motors: one at the front axle to move the front wheels, and a pair of electric motors at the rear wheels. In addition to AWD, the system uses torque vectoring.

The styling of the vehicle is aggressive and foreshadows themes that will be seen on future production models. After the Eclipse Cross that goes on sale in early 2018 will be redesigns of the Outlander Sport -- which will be a subcompact crossover -- and the larger Outlander.

Inside, the e-Evolution features a large digital screen running the length of the dashboard just below the windshield. It serves as a driver assist feature and can use cameras mounted on the front of the vehicle to display augmented reality (like navigation directions) over an image of the road. The dashboard and console layout also foreshadow elements that could be included in future production models.

The all-wheel-drive crossover is also a heritage play for Mitsubishi, as it leverages one of the brand's most iconic models -- the Lancer Evolution (Evo for short) high-performance sports sedan. Built for more than two decades, the rally-inspired Evo was discontinued in 2015 amid Mitsubishi's focus on crossovers.