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.December 18, 2003
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This Week:

• Saab Announces Its First SUV: The Saab 9-7X

• Two Worldwide Premieres for Mitsubishi Motors at 2004 North American International Auto Show

• DaimlerChrysler and UNESCO Encourage Cross-Cultural Learning and Understanding with the Launch of Mondialogo

• Nissan Officially Enters Full-Size Market With Sale of First Titan

• BMW Introduces X3 SPORTS ACTIVITY VEHICLE With National Ad Campaign

• FORD Elects Kimberly Casiano To Its Board Of Directors

• GM's Powertrain Performance Build Center To Produce Performance Engines

• Volkswagen Experience – Across the Sahara with the Touareg

• Mitsubishi Motors, Chrysler Group Leverage Global Alliance to Bring All-New, Mid-Sized Pickup Trucks to North America

• Shiny Qin Elected President Of GM Chinese Affinity Group

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Two Worldwide Premieres for Mitsubishi Motors at 2004 North American International Auto Show
 

CYPRESS, Calif. - Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) will introduce two all-new concepts at the 2004 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) which runs January 4 - 19, 2004 at the Cobo Center in Detroit. The show opens to the general public on January 10, 2004. At the show, the Eclipse Concept-E high-performance hybrid will make its world premiere. The concept car is powered by the "E-Boost" high-performance hybrid propulsion system that delivers exhilarating acceleration while also delivering low fuel consumption and low emissions. Another concept vehicle making its global debut is the Sport Truck Concept, a new mid-size truck developed in collaboration with the Chrysler Group in a project that stems from Mitsubishi Motors Corporation's alliance with DaimlerChrysler.

Eclipse Concept-E

The Eclipse Concept-E illustrates a near-future high-performance sports coupe.

The high-performance E-Boost hybrid power system achieves an ideal balance in delivering sports car-like acceleration together with environmentally friendly performance.

Eclipse Concept-E: Profile

Since its introduction in the North American market, the Eclipse compact sports coupe/convertible series has won wide acclaim for its advanced styling and outstanding driving performance. The Eclipse Concept-E concept model carries that performance-based spirit to new frontiers. Forcefully projecting a high-performance sports car image, Concept-E also gives graphic expression to Mitsubishi Motor Corporation's (MMC) focus on delivering pure driving pleasure with levels of dynamic handling and exhilarating performance approaching those found in the motorsports arena. The E-Boost high-performance hybrid propulsion system combines exhilarating acceleration with low- consumption, low-emissions performance. Inside, Concept-E utilizes a new "Deep Video Imaging" instrumentation display system to impart a highly futuristic look to the sporty interior design.

Exterior

The Concept-E presents a distinctive front visage featuring the new MMC design identity that is crafted around the three-diamond corporate logo in the center grille.

The front grille vent with integrated spoiler evokes a jet fighter image.

The long wheelbase, short overhangs and cab forward layout create a highly integrated monolithic form which, with the raindrop design side window graphics, gives the Concept-E an aggressive, ready-to-pounce profile.

Xenon plasma headlamps and rear combination lamps accentuate the Concept-E's futuristic appearance and identify its high-power hybrid pedigree.

Interior

The Concept-E generates a vibrant atmosphere inside through the "wave line" dashboard and the use of a raindrop door trim.

New "Deep Video Imaging" instrumentation uses two overlapping LCD monitors to create a 3-D viewing angle.

Mechanical

The Concept-E is powered by a 350kW (470 horsepower) E-Boost hybrid system that combines a 3.8-liter MIVEC V6 engine generating 269 horsepower to drive the front wheels and a 150kW electric motor to drive front and rear wheels. This advanced system delivers class-topping acceleration for a hybrid vehicle together with low-consumption, low-emission performance when compared to other high-performance coupes.

The electric motor is powered by high-efficiency lithium-ion battery packs.

The Concept-E uses a six-speed automated manual transmission that enables the driver to select between the superior drive efficiency of a manual gearbox or the convenience of an automatic.

Specifications

• Length x width x height (mm) 4318 x 1857 x 1304

• Wheelbase (mm) 2635

• Occupants 4

• Transmission 6-speed automated manual

• Driveline 4-wheel drive (Front wheels driven by engine and motor; rear by motor)

• Tires 245/40R20 front, 275/35R20 rear

• Sport Truck Concept: Profile

Sport Truck Concept

Photos:MMC

Capitalizing on the alliance with DaimlerChrysler, MMC is planning to launch a pickup truck in the North American market. This will mark the entry into an important segment for MMC and will make a significant addition to the company's lineup in that market. The Sport Truck Concept was developed with the North American market in mind.

Exterior

Low-slung lines, a wide cabin and 22-inch wheels give the Sport Truck Concept a powerful and sporty image.

Interior

The no-frills, linear design of the dashboard and seats gives the interior a modern architectural look. The instruments and primary controls are arranged toward the driver for optimum legibility and operability.

Mechanical

A 4.7-liter V-8 engine mates to a five-speed automatic transmission to deliver generous output for this mid-size truck.

Rear seats have large forward/back tilt angles and can also slide sideways, allowing for separate or bench seating. The seats may also be moved up and back into the cargo bed, enabling rear passengers to enjoy the exhilaration of an open-air experience.

Besides operating in a conventional manner, the tailgate also slides up or down to facilitate carrying skis, surfboards, or other long items.

Specifications

• Length x width x height (mm) 5245 x 1995 x 1770

• Wheelbase (mm) 3380

• Occupants 4

• Engine 4.7-liter V8

• Transmission 5-speed automatic

• Driveline 4WD

(Dec 17, 2003)