Mitsubishi responds to rumors about Lancer Evolution
Mitsubishi has confirmed it is working on the successor of Lancer Evolution X, which will debut in 2014 and could be hybrid or electric.
Mitsubishi has decided to respond to the ‘wave’ of news announcing the end of the Lancer Evolution. More specifically, those news were tied to Gayu Eusegi’s statement, global product director, who said that the Lancer Evolution X will be the last Evo.
In addition, he said that they needed to stop, although there still is demand for such a model. Subsequently, Mitsubishi officials have come up with explanations to these allegations, stating that the current generation of Lancer Evolution will be produced by 2013.
Apparently, the end of the Lancer Evolution in its current form comes as the Japanese brand’s new green strategy will include the launch of eight new models, electric or hybrid, by 2015.
According to Mitsubishi, one of the eight models could be the successor of Lancer Evo X, but that model could loose the name of Lancer Evolution. More specifically, although there will be a flagship in terms of the dynamic performance of the Lancer, this version may no longer be appointed Evolution.
Some rumors suggest a hybrid version of performance for the Lancer, which will have a drive train set inspired by the PX-MiEV concept. In that case, we’re talking about a 1.6-liter gasoline engine providing 114 hp and engaging the front wheels, while two electric motors – one for each deck – make a contribution in the green propulsion of the model and in providing an extra power when needed. The system can provide four-wheel drive when needed, with the transition from traction tofront-wheel drive performed automatically.
Source: InsideLine
