Mitsubishi teases ‘e-Evolution’ ahead of Tokyo Motor Show

A Mitsubishi is set to wear the Evolution badge once again… sort of.

Announced by the brand a month ahead of the Tokyo Motor Show, the Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept looks to be a coupe-crossover style SUV.

Now that the Lancer Evolution is gone, the badge is technically clear for use – though that doesn’t necessary mean it should be.

To make matters more complicated, the body style won’t be the only radical departure from the ‘Evo’ badge’s previous habitat.

Mitsubishi says the “low slung aerodynamic Coupe SUV” will debut as a concept at the Tokyo Motor Show, but all we have to go on until then is one image and a few scant details Mitsubishi have clued us in to.

Aside from calling it the ‘beacon of renewed ambition’ that will return Mitsubishi “to where it belongs to better embrace the future”, the brand has also let us know that it will feature an electric 4WD powertrain – or at least a hybrid one.

The recent global push for electric and hybrid vehicles has brought us some fast petrol-free cars, but Mitsubishi will have to work hard to convince people that its electrified crossover will be as “very high performance” as it says.

In its reveal on Twitter, the response was mixed.

One user also points out that it’s not the first time the brand has brought5 back an iconic nameplate to the dismay of enthusisasts.

Regardless, the concept image has us intrigued. Mitsubishi says the e-Evolution will also incorporate “advanced Artificial Intelligence technology”, and it does look quite out-there.

It just might not have been the best move to upset the Evo fans. Time will tell.