[PIMS 2018 - Part 2] Mitsubishi: All eyes are on the prototype e-Evolution concept car

In the previous article, we did show you hot Toyota models which have been showcased at the 2018 Philippine International Motor Show. In this post, get to expore stars at PIMS of another Japanese brand - Mitsubishi.

The brand with the three red diamonds had an intriguing pavilion design: an elevated stage where a draped mystery model sat concealed, next to a steep slope where a compact SUV seems to stand precariously.

Not to worry, though; the SUV, which happens to be the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (plug-in hybrid vehicle) is mounted on large chocks and is securely fastened on its underchassis. At least it better be, or else it will come rolling down to crash into the Xpander parked right at the base of the ramp.

The SUV, which happens to be the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (plug-in hybrid vehicle) is mounted on large chocks

The Mitsubishi Xpander at 2018 Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS)

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation’s EVP for Sales and Marketing, Taichi Nakajima, opened the floor by sharing the company’s enthusiasm for the event.

"Mitsubishi Motors Philippines is excited to bring you the car that made its world premiere at the prestigious 2017 Tokyo Motor Show. A concept car that signifies Mitsubishi Motors' new brand strategy, future mobility, and being one of the pioneers when it comes to electric vehicle technology."

Nakajima was poised to remove any doubts concerning Mitsubishi’s capability on electric vehicle development, mentioning that the company had over five decades of experience in the field. “As early as the year 1966, we started the development activities of the electric vehicle as a full-scale mass product.”

>>> Related: Complete guide to the Mitsubishi Philippines' local lineup

Kazuo Yano and Taichi Nakajima proudly present the e-Evolution Concept

All that effort seems to have paid off for the company, with the launch of the i-MiEV (Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle) in 2009, and the Outlander PHEV in 2013, combined sales of which have reached 187,000 units across 56 countries.

He also expressed hope that the Philippine market for electric vehicles will eventually expand. “Being the pioneer in EV, we are pursuing an EV demonstration program with the Philippine government and authorities to utilize e-mobility as a social infrastructure in the near future."

Meanwhile, Mitsubishi Motors General Manager for Design Strategy & Planning Kazuo Yano expounded on the company’s new corporate tagline, and how it is being reflected on Mitsubishi designs.

"Our new brand message is Drive Your Ambition. Our design division is translating this message into the unique Mitsubishi experience," he said.

"We began by taking a fresh look at our company's rich heritage, at our company's vision, and at our customers' expectations around the world. We distilled the essence of what makes our company unique. This Mitsubishi-ness can be summed up in four key design values: functional beauty, augmented possibilities, sculptured dynamism and Japanese craftsmanship. Together, they form our design philosophy: Robust and Ingenious."

All this served as a build-up to the main event: the eventual unveiling of the Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept

What makes Mitsubishi vehicles on sale irresistible? Yano explains. "Every Mitsubishi Motors car is an invitation to drive new roads, to new experiences, and our design philosophy will tell you with confidence: yes, you can."

All this served as a build-up to the main event: the eventual unveiling of the Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept, the brand's radical interpretation of the electric vehicle’s ultimate potential, as afforded by existing technology. The e-Evolution Concept was unveiled last year at the prestigious Tokyo Motor Show, and is regarded as the revival of Mitsubishi’s legendary Evolution badge.

The e-Evolution is not just a show car; it's a prototype concept car

Yano, however, was quick to point out that the e-Evolution goes beyond over-the-top looks. "The e-Evolution is not just a show car; it's a prototype concept car, which is a bold SUV sports car that is powered by electricity, with our Mitsubishi Super All Wheel Control technology.”

Other standout features of the e-Evolution Concept include triple electric motors, active yaw control, and an onboard Artificial Intelligence interface that reacts to road conditions in real-time. Looks like Mitsubishi has a solid grip on what the future of motoring holds.

Apart from Toyota and Mitsubishi, many other auto giants like Nissan, Honda, Mazda, BMW also took part in this big car show. All the best news and photos of their cars and concepts exhibited in the event will be constantly updated in our 2018 Philippine International Motor Show section.