Next Mitsubishi Lancer Evo to drop turbo for plug-in hybrid system, electric-motor

Say goodbye to the sweet whining of the turbocharger in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. According to sources, the next-generation Lancer Evo XI will be a plug-in hybrid sedan that uses an electric-motor instead of a turbocharger that it uses right now.

The system will use the same platform as the Concept PX-MiEV plug-in hybrid concept from last year”s Tokyo Motor Show – meaning, that the Evo XI’s 2.0L gasoline engine will be naturally aspirated and will get a boost from an electric-motor that runs on lithium-ion batteries. The electric-motor will power the front wheels, while the engine will power the rear wheels.

Sources say that the car will give drivers the option of driving in electric-only mode for short journeys, helping them improve fuel-efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions (because that’s what every Mitsubishi Lancer Evo driver is worried about).

Insiders say that the Evo XI will also get E-AYC, which regulates torque distribution between the rear wheels.

– By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar