Mitsubishi teases new electric SUV concept

The teasers keep coming ahead of the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo later this month with Mitsubishi preparing to step back into the electric vehicle spotlight, confirming it will unveil a new electric SUV concept there. 

The carmaker released a teaser image revealing the rear silhouette of the new vehicle with thin LED tail-lights and an angular tailgate, accompanied by coordinates for Koto City, Tokyo, where the vehicle will be revealed on October 29. Mitsubishi says the concept will be an “electrified crossover SUV,” offering an early look at the brand’s next-generation design language and EV ambitions.

While the concept is not expected to preview a specific production model, it’s likely to influence future Mitsubishi SUVs, much like the Vision Ralliart Concept of 2022, which foreshadowed a sportier Outlander PHEV.

Mitsubishi’s EV comeback

The reveal marks an important step in Mitsubishi’s return to the EV market. The brand, which launched one of the world’s first mass-market EVs with the i-MiEV in 2009, has been relatively quiet in the electric space.

The SUV will be roughly 4.3 metres long with a 2.8-metre wheelbase, positioning it against the Hyundai Kona Electric, BYD Atto 3, and Kia EV3.

The project is being developed in partnership with Foxtron, the EV division of Taiwanese tech giant Foxconn, and will be manufactured in Taiwan by Yulon Motor, which already produces Nissans under licence. The car will be designed by Pininfarina and based on the Foxtron Model B platform featuring a 60kWh battery and a range of more than 425km (WLTP).

The upcoming Tokyo debut of the electric SUV concept will offer the first clear indication of Mitsubishi’s design and technology direction as it re-enters the EV market. Expect a bold new look, an emphasis on practicality and range, and the return of Mitsubishi’s focus on everyday adventure, this time, powered entirely by electrons.