Autoblog is reporting that the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution may be ceasing to exist after the Evolution X and a website by the name of Causes.com is starting a petition/following to show Mitsubishi just how much the Evo is loved. The main reason for this is to make room for their hybrid line of vehicles. Gayu Eusegi (Mitsubishi's global product director) says that "Our influence now is EV technology" which may spell an end to one of the standout vehicles in the import market. With the Lancer Evolution being one of the few exciting cars that Mitsubishi makes, they may see a customer base shift as they embrace EV and hybrid technology.
I have a difficult time believing that hybrid and electric vehicles will win over their existing customers when they go to trade in their old Mitsu.
While many other manufacturers are creating sporty hybrid vehicles such as Honda's CR-Z and Nissan's Leaf, Mitsubishi doesn't really have the staying power in their market without the Evo. With the Eclipse gone and the Evo nearing its end, it looks like the resale value for Evo VIII and IX may stay strong. If you really can't bear the thought of the world without the Evo, head over to Causes.com and show your support for the cause.
[Sources: Autoblog, Autocar, and Causes.com]
Image courtesy of Paul Savala.
1 Comment
Ugh… you mean they’re thinkin of copyin Toyota? Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for supporting hybrid/electric technology as well as research into alternative fuel sources but these companies still need to offer something for the motorsports/driving enthusiasts out there if they want to maintain their following.