The new-generation Mitsubishi Evo could be a 370kW plug-in hybrid supercar with performance to rival the Nissan GT-R, according to an overseas report.
Autocar reports that, if approved, the successor to the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X will inherit technology from the Japanese manufacturer's MiEV Evolution II prototype race car (below), which competed at last month's Pike Peak international hill climb.
The MiEV Evolution II featured a unique four-motor layout, with two electric motors at the front and two at the rear combining to give the all-wheel-drive racer a peak power output of 400kW.
The report says the Evo successor's viability for production is dependent on the acceptance of the brand's 'PHEV' plug-in hybrid powertrain technology, which debuted in the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and is destined for the next-generation Lancer, which is due to launch in 2014.
Autocar believes the styling of the new Evo will take inspiration from the Mitsubishi Concept-RA (top) revealed in Detroit in 2008. The potential hybrid supercar would combine performance superior to any Lancer Evo before it with ultra-low emissions and a pure-electric running mode.
The car is far from locked in, however, with Mitsubishi Motors North America electric vehicle operations executive vice president Masatoshi Hasegawa admitting under-developed charging infrastructure remained a major obstacle for plug-in models in most markets around the world.
