Considering Mitsubishi’s current status, it’s curious to see something like the Mitsubishi Concept AR. It’s a pure concept with no production plans mentioned. The Mitsubishi Concept AR is known as a cross between a SUV and an MPV. Overall dimensions of the Mitsubishi Concept AR are odd: “Stretched over 4350 mm, Concept AR’s clean-cut lines make for an unusual proposition in the marketplace, lifting up the spirit of essentially functional MPVs with its commanding driving position, powerful front design, high wraparound grille / headlamps, large skid plates and 3D-sculptured wheel arches.
At the same time, Concept AR renews the SUV genre with its long wheelbase / stubby nose proportions, sharpened by the upswept side character lines, the technical outline of its window line, the slim front grille with its bold diamond-cut pattern or the air outlets crafted into the rear pillars which serve to reduce aerodynamic drag.” – – Mitsubishi
The interior is meant to be soothing and heavy on the infotainment side, but the most important item is the three rows of seats and small-van-like cargo space. This could become a small van if Mitsubishi is so inclined.
The Mitsubishi Concept AR is powered a mild hybrid Belt-driven Starter and Generator system(BSG). A 1.1-litre three-cylinder direct-injection turbocharged gas engine is hooked up to the BSG and power goes to the front wheels via a CVT. A 48V lithium-ion battery connected from the rear of the Mitsubishi Concept AR aids the engine with instant start-up after an idle-stop. According to Mitsubishi: “BSG is used to recover kinetic energy during regenerative braking to further improve fuel economy and CO2 emissions and to offer a pleasant experience to all on-board.”
Here are the main technical tidbits of the Mitsubishi AR Concept:
Rearward Blind Spot Vehicle Warning System
Driving Safety Support System
Auto Hi-beam
Unintentional Vehicle Move Off Control
Forward Collision Mitigation Braking (FCM)
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Main specifications
L x W x H 4350 mm / 1780 mm / 1690 mm
Occupants: 6
Engine Type: 1.1-litre in-line 3-cyl. direct-injection
turbocharged MIVEC
Max. output (net) 100 kW
Fuel used: Petrol
Belt-drivenStarter and Generator Max. output 10 kW (48V)
Battery Capacity V 0.25 kWh (48V)
Drivetrain: 2WD (front-wheel drive)
Transmission CVT with sub-transmission
Speaking of small vans…
