Mitsubishi Concept RA introduces environmentally friendly performance

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and Mitsubishi Motors North America Inc will be using the Detroit Motor Show in January 2007 to unveil their unique Concept RA. The Concept RA is a showcase for combining performance with environmental sensitivity.

Combining dynamic styling with clean, efficient high performance diesel power the Concept RA is capable of providing the enthusiast with their dose of high-performance while thumbing their nose at the ever frowning green extremists.

The new high-efficiency, low-emissions 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbo-diesel engine features MIVEC7 continuously variable valve lift and timing control. Piezoelectric injector common-rail direct fuel injection allows a lower compression ratio and with a Variable Diffuser / Variable Geometry turbocharger, the clean diesel unit delivers a maximum output of 150 kW / 201hp and maximum torque of 420Nm. The new diesel relies on a new catalytic converter system that brings together diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), NOx trap catalyst (NTC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) technologies making it one very environmentally friendly oil burner.

The Concept-RA borrows the Evo X’s driveline and adds Active Steering and Active Suspension control to the mix. The result is said to be intuitive, on-demand vehicle behavior that faithfully reflects driver intent under all driving conditions, from everyday use to emergency avoidance situations.

For improved crashworthiness and to reduce vehicle weight theConcept-RA features a new body structure using an aluminum space frame made from extruded aluminum sections and die-cast aluminum members, as well as engine hood, fenders and other outer panels made from high impact-resistance and easily recyclable plastic resin.