Eclipse Concept Sports High-Tech Hybrid Drivetrain
Mitsubishi will be showing a total of fifteen demo vehicles at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show, ranging from the spicy Lancer Ralliart and ultra-hot Evolution models to the luxurious new Diamante and formidable Galant.
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| Mitsubishi's display of the Eclipse Concept E should be a hot spot on the Detroit auto show floor. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America) |
Two that show goers might find most interesting, however, won't be available to consumers at all, at least not yet. The concept vehicles, a sports car expected to be a sneak peak at the next-gen Eclipse coupe, and a pickup truck that should hint at the Japanese brand's future Dodge Dakota based midsize pickup, will be on display from January 10th to 19th.
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| The Concept E features some of Mitsubishi's most innovative technology. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America) |
The Eclipse has been one of the most popular vehicles in the sport compact segment since 1989, so Mitsubishi's display of the Eclipse Concept E should be a hot spot on the auto show floor. The concept features some of the high-tech brand's most innovative technology. Starting from the ground up is a hybrid gas-electric powertrain, the first half of the equation being a version of the 3.8-L V6 found in the upcoming 2004 Galant sending a stimulating 272 horsepower through to the front wheels. The gasoline engine is also boosted by a 204 horsepower electric motor which drives the rear wheels, making the new model effectually an AWD vehicle. Both engines deliver their power through a 6-speed manual gearbox.
Not only will overall performance be exemplary, with a total of 476-hp available from the 3.8L V6 and rear electric motors, but in low-speed situations such as city or urban driving, the car should excel in emissions and fuel consumption figures. Incidentally, the electric motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack mounted in the car's rear end.