The news of a new Evolution-badged Mitsubishi always comes with great excitement, but this time around it may be a bit different. Mitsubishi has revealed plans to not only build its new performance car on a new platform, but reports suggest that it will feature a diesel-electric hybrid drivetrain.
Motor Trend revealed that the design goal for the next Evo is “uncompromised handling with state-of-the-art plug-in hybrid EV technology”.
Because of this new direction, a decision has been made that the Evo will no longer be derived from the basic Lancer.
According to Motor Trend, Mitsubishi is investigating the use of a three-cylinder diesel engine paired with two electric motors; one motor aiding the engine and together would power one axle, while the second electric motor would power the opposing axle.
This particular setup is similar to the drive system found in the Porsche 918 Spyder, with Mitsubishi’s engineers targeting to create the best handling Evo of all time.
The technology used in the car would also push the Evo into the territory of the Nissan GT-R and Honda’s upcoming NSX, meaning a much higher purchase price.
– Charlen Raymond
