January 17, 2008 More images have emerged of the MITSUBISHI Concept-RA coinciding with its global premiere at the 2008 North American International Auto Show. Using an aluminum space frame body and impact -resistant, recyclable plastic resin for the as engine hood, fenders and other outer panels to reduce weight, enhance fuel economy and improve safety, the sports coupe concept combines Mitsubishi's Super-All Wheel Control system control system and twin clutch automated manual transmission used in the Lancer Evolution X with a turbo-charged, 2.2-liter clean-diesel engine that delivers a maximum output of 150 kW (204 PS) and maximum torque of 420 Nm (42.8 kg-m). In line with the earlier design sketches, the powerful message the car shoots for is accentuated by strongly flared arches housing 21-inch wheels and red is the color of choice for the sporty exterior, contrasting with the matte black engine hood.
Described as a "technology showcase" and not likely to be destined for production, the Concept-RA's S-AWC driveline shared with the Lancer Evolution X consists of Active Steering and Active Damping control to the Active Center Differential (ACD), Active Yaw Control (AYC), Sport Antilock Brake System and Active Stability Control component systems. These systems are integrally managed to enhance control over drive torque and braking at each wheel, boosting traction, cornering and vehicle stability levels.
The low-emission 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbo-diesel engine complies with Tier 2 Bin 5 emission regulations in the United States using a new catalytic converter system that brings together diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), NOx trap catalyst (NTC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) technologies. The engine switches between low and high-speed cam profiles to drive intake valves, and piezoelectric injector common-rail direct fuel injection, allowing the use of a lower compression ratio. The VD/VG (Variable Diffuser / Variable Geometry) turbocharger is designed to produce optimum boost characteristics at all times, delivering the 150 kW (204 PS) output and maximum torque of 420 Nm (42.8 kg-m).
Upward lifting doors and distinctive trapezoidal grille fascia mark the Concept's exterior and inside, the cockpit's wrap-round control layout uses minimal visual instrumentation and optimizes the switch and control layout. See the gallery for more pics.
MITSUBISHI Concept-RA specifications
- Overall length (mm): 4,445
