NAIAS 2008: Mitsubishi Concept-RA

Mitsubishi will present Concept-RA to at Detroit Motor Show 2008 in January. Today Mitsubishi published first artist impression drawings for Concept-RA. With this concept Mitsubishi probably showing us how the new generation Eclipse will look like.

Mitsubishi Concept-RA shows that thrilling performance and environmental responsibility need not be mutually exclusive concepts. This coupe concept features the S-AWC vehicle dynamics control system driveline and the Twin Clutch SST automated manual transmission used in Lancer Evolution, is powered by a new high-output, high-efficiency clean diesel engine.

The Mitsubishi Concept-RA S-AWC driveline adds Active Steering and Active Suspension control to the ACD, AYC, Sport ABS and ASC component systems that comprise the system used on Lancer Evolution. S-AWC integrally manages all of these systems to realize advanced levels of control over drive torque and braking, thereby upgrading traction, cornering and vehicle stability. All this adds up to intuitive, on-demand vehicle behavior that faithfully reflects driver intent under all driving conditions, from everyday use to emergency avoidance situations.

Mitsubishi Concept-RA is powered by a new high-efficiency, low-emissions 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbodiesel engine with MIVEC continuously variable valve lift and timing control. With piezoelectric injector common-rail direct fuel injection that allows a lower compression ratio and with a VD (Variable Diffuser)/VG (Variable Geometry) turbocharger, the clean diesel unit delivers a maximum output of 150 kW (204 PS) and maximum torque of 420 Nm (42.8 kg-m). For compliance with U.S. emissions standards (Tier 2 Bin 5 emission regulations), the engine relies on a new catalytic converter system that brings together diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), NOx trap catalyst (NTC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) technologies. The new diesel engine will deliver exciting driving manners with a high degree of fuel efficiency.

For improved crashworthiness and to reduce vehicle weight Mitsubishi Concept-RA features a new body structure using an aluminum space frame made from extruded aluminum sections and die-cast aluminum members, as well as engine hood, fenders and other outer panels made from high impact-resistance and easily recyclable plastic resin.

Text and photos: Mitsubishi

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