Represents a New Direction for Hybrid Engine Technology |
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Represents a New Direction for Hybrid Engine Technology |
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25th October, 2004 Mitsubishi Motors’ Eclipse Concept-E may just look like another stylish coupe from the outside, but beneath its flowing sculptured surfaces lies an extremely innovative hybrid performance vehicle. Offering very competitive levels of dynamic handling and exhilarating performance, the Eclipse Concept-E gives graphic expression to Mitsubishi’s focus on delivering pure driving pleasure. The ‘E-Boost’ high-performance hybrid propulsion system powering Concept-E also achieves an ideal balance between driving and environmental performance, as it delivers breath-taking acceleration while returning low fuel consumption and low emission levels. The most clearly visible indicators that the Eclipse Concept-E is no ordinary car is the glowing plasma bulb located in the car’s centre console. When the plasma indicator glows with its own unique energy it lets everyone know that there is more to this car than meets the eye. Featuring plasma head and tail lamps, neon crackle-tube indicators and brake lights, and a glass roof that offers ambient luminescence of its own, the Eclipse Concept-E could easily be called a study in light.  Mitsubishi Eclipse Concept-E Aggressive Design However, Concept-E’s hybrid electric drivetrain had a profound influence on the car’s design. The functional design elements include side exhaust ports that allows the batteries for the electric motor to be placed down the centre of the vehicle. Also, the almost impossible angle of the door’s rake was designed to accentuate the front fenders of the car, but required the design of a special lower door hinge that is hidden by a mechanically operated trap-door that folds open when the door opens. While the Concept-E continues Eclipse’s two-plus-two seating configuration that is where most similarities end with previous generations of the car. The Wave Line design theme is incorporated into the instrument panel to create an elegant, relaxing and thoroughly modern environment. Raindrop-shaped door panels that pick up the shape of the external mirrors give the interior a cohesive look and feel, and metallic-toned leather performance seats add to the futuristic look. Deep Video Imaging and Multi-Layer DisplayŌ (MLD) technology provides the driver and passenger with simulated gauges, diagnostic information and interactive displays in an intuitive multi-dimensional format. ‘E Boost’ Hybrid System The Eclipse Concept-E clearly demonstrates that performance and fuel efficiency do not need to be mutually exclusive, while ‘E-Boost’ is environmentally friendly technology combined with pure driving fun. Eclipse Concept-E’s front wheels are powered by a 3.8 litre V6 engine with MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and Electronic Control), while the rear wheels are driven by a rear-mounted E-Boost electric motor that provides an additional 150kW. Total power is 353kW. Because it is not affected by gear changes the throttle-actuated electric rear motor gives the Eclipse Concept-E a constant source of power when it’s needed. This translates to higher, more efficient performance. Besides raw speed, the hybrid powertrain also improves fuel economy and lowers emissions when compared to vehicles with engines that develop in excess of 335kW. Since its introduction to the North American market, the Eclipse compact sports coupe and convertible series has won wide acclaim for its styling and segment-leading performance. The Concept-E carries that performance-bred spirit to electrifying new heights. The Eclipse Concept-E rides on 245/40R20 front, and 275/35R20 rear performance tyres mounted on nine-spoke 20” alloy wheels. The suspension is fully independent with a MacPherson Strut arrangement at the front, and a multi-link arrangement at the rear. In fact, the rear suspension and differential were designed specifically for high performance, as the rear suspension set-up is the same as that found in the legendary Lancer Evolution VIII racer.  Mitsubishi Eclipse Concept-E While not available in Australia, the Eclipse Concept-E hints at the design direction of the next generation production Eclipse for the North American market, but more importantly clearly shows the advanced technology being developed by Mitsubishi for its future vehicles. The vehicle’s major specifications are:
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