Mitsubishi Evo to go hybrid

One of Japan's most iconic performance cars, the Mitsubishi Evolution X, is poised to switch to hybrid power when the next generation model arrives in 2012.

Following internet speculation in the lead-up to this week's Tokyo motor show, Mitsubishi's executive officer of product strategy, Ryugo Nakao, confirmed the rumours had substance.

He said Mitsubishi was considering one system that used electric motors in all four wheels, or using a more conventional hybrid system.

However, a regular petrol-powered version of the Mitsubishi Evolution would still also be available.

"We have lots of unknowns in getting to the new generation of the Evolution ... but we recognise we need the Evolution to be harmonised with sports driving and the environment," he said.

He said that Evolution fans would not be disappointed with a hybrid version. It would be a genuine performance car: "we hear the voice of the Evolution fan".

At the Tokyo motor show this week, Mitsubishi unveiled a new hybrid system that drives the wheels primarily via an electric motor. A petrol engine powers a generator that recharges the battery, in similar fashion to the Chevrolet Volt.

Part of the challenge for the Evolution is making room for the massive electric motors required to deliver high performance.

Nakao-san said the wheels would need to be at least 20-inches in diameter.

Mitsubishi is yet another in a growing number of performance car makers who are embracing hybrid electric power for fast-accelerating vehicles.

At the recent Frankfurt motor show, German sports car maker Porsche said it planned a hybrid sports car, while Mercedes-Benz and Audi outlined plans for full electric sports cars.

Even famous Italian marque Ferrari has revealed it is testing hybrid systems and will have them in production in the next four years.

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at www.carsales.mobi