Mitsubishi teases electrified MPV concept ahead of Japan Mobility Show 2023

Ahead of the Japan Mobility Show 2023, Mitsubishi Motors is sparking curiosity with its “electrified crossover MPV” concept.

The minivan, dripping with hints of adventure, could potentially be the precursor to the next Mitsubishi Delica (currently in its 5th generation), which has been a staple in Mitsubishi's lineup, and is due for an update.

The company has dropped teasers that provide small glimpses into what the future might hold. One of them showcased the front lighting signature of this "Borderless Adventure" concept. Now, they've unveiled its tail, reinforcing the single-box design. The T-shaped LED taillights, merged with the rear glass, accompany an illuminated Mitsubishi emblem. Not much is revealed about the vehicle’s lower half, but a roof-mounted box suggests possibilities of added storage.

Ditching the traditional side mirrors, Mitsubishi's concept sports brackets intended for mirror-replacing cameras. This innovative move not only reduces the vehicle's drag but also provides an unobstructed view of the road, Mitsubishi believes. As for the interior? The company promises a 6-seater design with a "vastly spacious cabin". That's Mitsubishi’s subtle way of saying, “We went big on space."

The company claims this electric beauty will offer the agility of an SUV and the convenience of an MPV. And while it's hinting at a journey toward a carbon-neutral society, it seems the powertrain is more likely to be of EREV nature rather than being entirely electric. However, Mitsubishi firmly assures that the concept will feature an electric four-wheel drive system, making it a capable off-road companion.

Now, the burning question is whether this concept will make it to production. With the existing Mitsubishi Delica D:5 model seeing little change since 2007 and only getting a facelift in 2018, there’s a brewing sentiment that this could very well be its successor. It might be time for a fresh start.

Mitsubishi is also debuting another concept at the Tokyo show in partnership with Lifehub Inc.3. It's titled the "Last 1 Mile Mobility", a compact mobility vehicle that seems reminiscent of a buggy. Designed for short-distance travels, this vehicle fits a rider and a passenger and runs entirely on electricity, which it draws from repurposed batteries.

Beyond these concepts, attendees of the Japan Mobility Show 2023 can expect to see Mitsubishi’s new Triton/L200, a replica of the rally version that once raced in the Asia Cross Country Rally, and their established production lineup, including the Outlander PHEV and the Delica D:5.

Via