Mitsubishi Concept-RA premieres at Detroit
Mitsubishi Motors have premiered the Mitsubishi Concept-RA to the world at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS or the Detroit Motor Show).Mitsubishi Concept-RA fuses a passion for dynamic, exciting driving with a heightened sensitivity for the environment thanks to clean, efficient high performance diesel power.
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 (Sports Shift Transmission) used in the all-new Lancer Evolution X, and 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 behaviour that faithfully reflects driver intent under all driving conditions, from everyday use to emergency avoidance situations.
Mitsubishi’s Concept-RA is powered by a new high-efficiency, low-emissions 2.2-litre 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbo diesel 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.
For improved crashworthiness and to reduce vehicle weight Mitsubishi’s Concept-RA features a new body structure using an aluminium space frame made from extruded aluminium sections and die-cast aluminium members, as well as engine bonnet, bumpers and other outer panels made from high impact-resistance and easily recyclable plastic resin.
Developed as an "MMC technology showcase", the design uses stylish sport coupe proportions wrapped in dynamic flowing lines that give powerful and eloquent expression to the car's advanced technological features. Muscular wheel arches housing 21-inch wheels give graphic expression to the powerful drive torque and stopping power that Mitsubishi's S-AWC vehicle dynamics control system transmits so effectively to the road surface, while an exposed engine cover highlights the presence of the car's new powerful and clean diesel engine.
The Mitsubishi Concept-RA also sports the inverted-slant nose with trapezoidal grille fascia that marks Mitsubishi Motors new design identity, suitably tweaked to reflect the car's sport coupe attributes.
The red exterior colouring graphically accentuates the beauty of its fluid body lines, counter-pointed by a matte black engine hood that imparts a strongly mechanical flavour.
The interior has been developed to show a fusion of tradition with leading-edge touches. The cockpit's wrap-round control layout uses minimal visual instrumentation and optimizes the switch and control layout. This reduces the driver's physical and mental workload, allowing full concentration on driving. The interior also makes extensive use of fine-quality natural materials in a design that delivers a reassuring presence and peace of mind.
