Mitsubishi e-Evolution previews future SUV with artificial intelligence

Mitsubishi will offer a glimpse of how a future range-topping SUV model could look when it reveals the e-Evolution concept at the Tokyo motor show this month.

True to other concepts of recent shows, it’s a low-slung SUV-coupé with an electric powertrain and four-wheel drive. Mitsubishi said the car will signpost the brand’s future direction - likely in both styling and powertrains, as well as artificial intelligence, suggesting a high level of autonomy. 

Although there's no official word as to whether the car will make production, its arrival backs suggestions that the Evolution moniker will return to market via an SUV.

Mitsubishi said the concept, which it describes as a flagship model, uses augmented reality technology to seamlessly pass information to the driver while on the move.

The e-Evolution uses a triple motor set-up - one driving the front wheels and two at the back - to offer four-wheel drive and enable active yaw control.

The concept is the first car to bear Mitsubishi’s Evolution name since the last Lancer Evolution Final Edition was sold in non-UK markets in 2015.  

After a tumultuous period, Mitsubishi was acquired in 2016 by Nissan. This brought the brand into the Renault-Nissan Alliance, which is now known as Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi. 

The concept will usher in a new chapter for the brand, which celebrates its centenary this year, and looks to return Mitsubishi to growth and sustainable development.