Mitsubishi's Lancer Evolution to debut at Beijing auto show

Shanghai, April 15 (Gasgoo.com) Mitsubishi Motors Corp. said today that it will be releasing the new Lancer Evolution high-performance 4WD sedan at the Beijing International Auto Show later this month, and the model is set to hit the Chinese market this fall.

Also on display will be the Mitsubishi Concept-RA ('Road Alive'), which embodies the fun-to-drive and heightened eco-friendly sensitivity, and the Prototype-S sport hatchback concept, both to be unveiled in the Asia region for the first time. The i MiEV electric vehicle will also be joining them on the Mitsubishi Motors stand in a lineup of 13 models.

In its new Step Up 2010 mid-term business plan, Mitsubishi Motors designates China as one of its 'focus' markets for the coming years, partly because of the rapidly growing demand for automobiles in the country. The company plans to introduce six new models into the Chinese market over the next three years, including some to be built locally.

The Lancer Evolution, to debut at the Beijing auto show, will be the first of these new models. Featuring Mitsubishi Motors' own S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) vehicle dynamics control system, Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission) and other cutting-edge technologies, this new-generation high-performance 4WD sedan allows its drivers to enjoy the highest levels of fun-to-drive performance safely and confidently.

Lancer Evolution was well received after its Japan launch last October, and Mitsubishi Motors has subsequently put the model on the North American, European and Australian markets. With its forthcoming introduction in China, the model will be on sale in all of the world's major car markets.

Some Mitsubishi's new models for sale in China will be assembled with local partners, including Southeast Motor. Established in Fujian Province in November 1995, South East Motor is a joint venture company in which the Fujian Automotive Industry Group holds a 50% stake, China Motor Corp a 25% stake and Mitsubishi Motors a 25% stake.