Concept for adventure
Mitsubishi Motors has staged the world premiere of its D:X Concept electrified crossover MPV at the Japan Mobility Show.
Designed to hint at the Delica of the future, the concept is designed to “inspire a sense of adventure”.
Combining the roomy cabin space of an MPV with the handling of an SUV, and providing the powerful driving performance of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), the D:X “supports an active mobility lifestyle”.
Takao Kato, president and chief executive officer, says: “The D:X is a concept that brings together the best of Mitsubishi Motors’ technologies – our electrification and all-wheel-control technologies in particular – with a view to realising a carbon-neutral society.”
The character of the Delica is expressed by the side-window graphics extending from the front of the cabin to the D-pillar and by the robust D-pillar. In addition, spaciousness is created by the front window that wraps around to the bottom.
The sturdy over-fenders and large-diameter tyres convey a sense of strength, while the front and rear skid plates and side-step protectors provide road performance that enables a safe and secure ride even over rough conditions.
The Dynamic Shield front-face design concept has been further evolved to protect the cabin with an integrated shield that extends from the sides. A skid plate provides an enhanced sense of protection.
Projection laser lights are used for the T-shape lights, which extend to both ends to produce an impression of width. In addition, the bright lights that illuminate the road allow the driver to accurately assess conditions ahead even on narrow roads.
The body colour is a luxurious glamping-inspired copper with a new semi-gloss texture that exudes a sense of quality.
A spacious monobox interior provides ample room for all occupants. Panoramic seats that rotate and move up and down, and a front window and see-through hood that provide an open, wide field of vision create an aerial cockpit. This all creates an unprecedented driving experience as if floating in the air.
The panoramic seats can be moved up and down for optimal positioning. The high eye position ensures forward visibility, making driving easier and creating a sense of openness. During breaks, the front seats can be rotated backward to create an interior space where all occupants can enjoy conversation.
Other features include a see-through hood, which extends from the front window glass to the bottom, displays a combination of information, such as the road-surface conditions and the turn angle of the front tyres.
A voice-interactive AI concierge provides information on routes to destinations, weather conditions and other information to help ensure a safe and stress-free driving experience.
Tan-coloured genuine leather is used for the instrument panel and seats, while the metal parts in alumite grey are used as accents to express a sense of high-quality gear.
A new-generation sound system developed in co-operation with Yamaha has been evolved. To provide powerful, three-dimensional sound, numerous speakers are positioned in headrests and other appropriate locations.
The pillar parts, including the robust D-pillar, are made using a reinforced rib-bone frame with a circular framework structure, known for the excellent safety performance it delivers in the Delica D:5. It allows for high-level safety and spacious interior that envelops the occupants with a sense of security.
The S-AWC integrated vehicle-dynamics control system is adopted for the electric 4WD system. It provides a safe, secure and comfortable ride in any weather or road conditions, allowing drivers to embark on various adventures in peace of mind.
The Mitsubishi D:X Concept’s PHEV system offers an EV mode for daily use and hybrid mode for long-distance trips. Different driving modes can be selected to suit the conditions.
