|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| ||
Image credits: Mitsubishi
January 5, 2004 -- Detroit -- Like a soothsayer peering into a crystal ball, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA), today provided a glimpse into the future through the Eclipse Concept-E.
But perhaps the future is more clearly visible through the glowing plasma bulb located in the car's center console. Because when the Eclipse Concept-E's parallel hybrid motor is switched on, that plasma indicator light glows with its own unique energy, letting the driver know that there's more here than meets the eye.
Upon initial glance, what meets the eye is a highly styled coupe. Featuring plasma running lights and taillights; neon crackle-tube indicators and brake lights; and a glass roof that offers ambient luminescence of its own, the Concept-E could be called a study in light.
But an innovative all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration-in which parallel engines provide power to both the front and rear axles-also makes the Eclipse Concept-E a study in high-tech mechanics. Thanks to this unique hybrid system, called E-Boost, the Concept-E delivers a continuous, uninterrupted stream of power even while the six-speed automated manual transmission changes gears. The result is a car that boasts performance to match its aerodynamic appearance.
"The Eclipse Concept-E suggests that performance and fuel efficiency need not be mutually exclusive," said Ulrich Walker, executive vice president of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. "E-Boost is environmentally friendly technology, but it's also pure driving fun. The Concept-E is proof that hybrid technology can do as much for power and performance as it can for fuel consumption," Walker said.
Suspension Performance
Since its introduction to the North American market, the Eclipse compact sports coupe and convertible series has won wide acclaim for its styling and its 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 tires, and nine-spoke, 20-inch wheels suspended by independent multi-links at all four corners. In fact, the rear suspension and differential were designed specifically for high performance; the rear suspension setup is the same one found underneath the motorsports-bred Lancer Evolution-series sedan.
Engine
The Eclipse Concept-E's front wheels are powered by a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that features Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control (MIVEC). Driving the rear wheels is a rear-mounted E-Boost electric motor which provides an additional 200 horsepower, for a total output of 470 horsepower. 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, which directly 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 450 horsepower. And when value is added to the equation, the Concept-E is at least equal to its mass times the speed of light, squared.
Interior
While the two-plus-two seating configuration is carried into this preview of the fourth-generation Eclipse, that's where most similarities end. Inside, the Wave Line design theme includes an instrument panel that combines shadow and light, hard lines and soft curves, to create an elegant, relaxing an thoroughly modern environment.
"The Concept-E makes use of traditional Japanese design - the incorporation of paradoxically complex elements in a simple manner," said Olivier Boulay, general manager of the Mitsubishi Motors Product Design Office.
Light and shadow seem to merge inside the Concept-E, but the design cohesiveness goes further: Raindrop-shaped door panels, which resemble the shape of the exterior mirrors, give the interior a cohesive look and feel, and metallic-toned leather performance seats appear to conduct an electricity of their own.
Rear seat passengers benefit from the side-hinged hatch. Moving the hinge away from the roof saved nearly two inches of rear headroom.
Deep Video Imaging and Multi-Layer Display(TM) (MLD) technology provide the driver and passengers with simulated gauges, diagnostic information and interactive displays in an intuitive, multidimensional format.
Exterior
The Concept-E presents a distinctive front visage featuring the new Mitsubishi Motors corporate identity crafted around a prominent three-diamond logo. The front grille vent and integrated front spoiler evoke the image of a jet fighter. The long wheelbase, short overhangs and cab-forward layout create a highly integrated form which, combined with the raindrop design side window, gives the Concept-E an aggressive, ready-to-pounce profile.
The Eclipse Concept-E's hybrid electric drivetrain had its own influence on design. As designer Mike Desmond explains: "Functional design elements include the side exhaust ports, which allow the electric motor's batteries to be placed down the center of the vehicle.
"The front of the door is raked back at an almost impossible angle, to make the door cut lines accentuate the fenders. To do that, a special lower door hinge had to be designed. The hinge is hidden by a mechanically operated trap-door that folds open when the door opens. And that elliptical shape, in turn, is reflected in the shape of the side exhaust exits. Once again, we were able to integrate complex design elements in a simple manner."
Source - Mitsubishi Media
But perhaps the future is more clearly visible through the glowing plasma bulb located in the car's center console. Because when the Eclipse Concept-E's parallel hybrid motor is switched on, that plasma indicator light glows with its own unique energy, letting the driver know that there's more here than meets the eye.
Upon initial glance, what meets the eye is a highly styled coupe. Featuring plasma running lights and taillights; neon crackle-tube indicators and brake lights; and a glass roof that offers ambient luminescence of its own, the Concept-E could be called a study in light.
But an innovative all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration-in which parallel engines provide power to both the front and rear axles-also makes the Eclipse Concept-E a study in high-tech mechanics. Thanks to this unique hybrid system, called E-Boost, the Concept-E delivers a continuous, uninterrupted stream of power even while the six-speed automated manual transmission changes gears. The result is a car that boasts performance to match its aerodynamic appearance.
"The Eclipse Concept-E suggests that performance and fuel efficiency need not be mutually exclusive," said Ulrich Walker, executive vice president of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. "E-Boost is environmentally friendly technology, but it's also pure driving fun. The Concept-E is proof that hybrid technology can do as much for power and performance as it can for fuel consumption," Walker said.
Suspension Performance
Since its introduction to the North American market, the Eclipse compact sports coupe and convertible series has won wide acclaim for its styling and its 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 tires, and nine-spoke, 20-inch wheels suspended by independent multi-links at all four corners. In fact, the rear suspension and differential were designed specifically for high performance; the rear suspension setup is the same one found underneath the motorsports-bred Lancer Evolution-series sedan.
Engine
The Eclipse Concept-E's front wheels are powered by a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that features Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control (MIVEC). Driving the rear wheels is a rear-mounted E-Boost electric motor which provides an additional 200 horsepower, for a total output of 470 horsepower. 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, which directly 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 450 horsepower. And when value is added to the equation, the Concept-E is at least equal to its mass times the speed of light, squared.
Interior
While the two-plus-two seating configuration is carried into this preview of the fourth-generation Eclipse, that's where most similarities end. Inside, the Wave Line design theme includes an instrument panel that combines shadow and light, hard lines and soft curves, to create an elegant, relaxing an thoroughly modern environment.
"The Concept-E makes use of traditional Japanese design - the incorporation of paradoxically complex elements in a simple manner," said Olivier Boulay, general manager of the Mitsubishi Motors Product Design Office.
Light and shadow seem to merge inside the Concept-E, but the design cohesiveness goes further: Raindrop-shaped door panels, which resemble the shape of the exterior mirrors, give the interior a cohesive look and feel, and metallic-toned leather performance seats appear to conduct an electricity of their own.
Rear seat passengers benefit from the side-hinged hatch. Moving the hinge away from the roof saved nearly two inches of rear headroom.
Deep Video Imaging and Multi-Layer Display(TM) (MLD) technology provide the driver and passengers with simulated gauges, diagnostic information and interactive displays in an intuitive, multidimensional format.
Exterior
The Concept-E presents a distinctive front visage featuring the new Mitsubishi Motors corporate identity crafted around a prominent three-diamond logo. The front grille vent and integrated front spoiler evoke the image of a jet fighter. The long wheelbase, short overhangs and cab-forward layout create a highly integrated form which, combined with the raindrop design side window, gives the Concept-E an aggressive, ready-to-pounce profile.
The Eclipse Concept-E's hybrid electric drivetrain had its own influence on design. As designer Mike Desmond explains: "Functional design elements include the side exhaust ports, which allow the electric motor's batteries to be placed down the center of the vehicle.
"The front of the door is raked back at an almost impossible angle, to make the door cut lines accentuate the fenders. To do that, a special lower door hinge had to be designed. The hinge is hidden by a mechanically operated trap-door that folds open when the door opens. And that elliptical shape, in turn, is reflected in the shape of the side exhaust exits. Once again, we were able to integrate complex design elements in a simple manner."
Source - Mitsubishi Media
The Mitsubishi Eclipse was introduced in 1989 and has remained in production in the modern era. The name 'Eclipse' came from a eighteenth century English racing horse which won 26 races. Since its inception, it has been redesigned on a number of occasions, and there has been four distinct generations. The first two generations were very similar and shared many mechanical components and design features. The third generation was a redesigned vehicle sitting a top a new platform.
There were four trim levels available for the first generation Mitsubishi Eclipse. The top-of-the line trim level was an all wheel drive version; the others were front-wheel drive. Both were available with the optional turbocharged engine. The trim levels included the base, GS, GS-T, and GSX. The base engine was a 1.8-liter 8-valve SOHC engine that produced just under 100 horsepower. The GS with DOHC was a 2-liter engine that raised horsepower to 136. The turbocharged version had over 180 horsepower.
Attached to the engine were a five-speed manual gearbox as standard equipment. A four-speed automatic was available for an additional cost. The AWD models included a limited-slip center differential and output shaft for a transfer case that was different than the FWD versions.
The second generation of the Eclipse began production in 1995 and continued into 1999. A Spyder version was now available, which offered convertible driving. Horsepower on all engines improved; the base 2.0-liter engine produced 140 horsepower. The 2.4-liter engine produced 141 and the 2.0-liter engine with turbocharger produced 210 horsepower.
There were now seven trim levels available including the RS, GS, GS Spyder, GS-T, GS-T Spyder and GSX.
In 1997 the model was giving aesthetic improvements. The front grille was updated, the headlights reshaped, and the driving lights became smaller and round. The reverse lights were moved away from their central position.
Built along side of the Eclipse was the Eagle Talon which was produced until 1989 when Eagle went out of business. The Talon was available in Base, ESi, TSi, and TSi AWD. Minor styling changes between the Talon and the Eclipse segregated these two vehicles.
The third generation of the eclipse appeared in 2000 and remained in production until 2005. It was a drastic styling change from its pior-self, with styling cues borrowed from the Mitsubishi SST design study which had debuted at the 1998 North American International Auto Show.
The Eclipse now shared a platform with the 8th generation Galant. Weight and size increased, and so did the engines displacement size. The base engine was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 140 horsepower. The 3.0-liter V6 engine raised horsepower to the tune of 200 horsepower.
The GTS trim was introduced in 2003. It had a 10:1 compression ratio and an improved Variable Induction Management air intake system that raised horsepower by 10.
The fourth generation of the Eclipse was shown at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show. The big news was the 3.8-liter V6 engine that raised horsepower to 263. The base 2.4-liter engine is rated at 165 horsepower. There is only one drive type available - front wheel drive. The Spyder version was released for 2007 at the North American International Auto Show.
There were four trim levels available for the first generation Mitsubishi Eclipse. The top-of-the line trim level was an all wheel drive version; the others were front-wheel drive. Both were available with the optional turbocharged engine. The trim levels included the base, GS, GS-T, and GSX. The base engine was a 1.8-liter 8-valve SOHC engine that produced just under 100 horsepower. The GS with DOHC was a 2-liter engine that raised horsepower to 136. The turbocharged version had over 180 horsepower.
Attached to the engine were a five-speed manual gearbox as standard equipment. A four-speed automatic was available for an additional cost. The AWD models included a limited-slip center differential and output shaft for a transfer case that was different than the FWD versions.
The second generation of the Eclipse began production in 1995 and continued into 1999. A Spyder version was now available, which offered convertible driving. Horsepower on all engines improved; the base 2.0-liter engine produced 140 horsepower. The 2.4-liter engine produced 141 and the 2.0-liter engine with turbocharger produced 210 horsepower.
There were now seven trim levels available including the RS, GS, GS Spyder, GS-T, GS-T Spyder and GSX.
In 1997 the model was giving aesthetic improvements. The front grille was updated, the headlights reshaped, and the driving lights became smaller and round. The reverse lights were moved away from their central position.
Built along side of the Eclipse was the Eagle Talon which was produced until 1989 when Eagle went out of business. The Talon was available in Base, ESi, TSi, and TSi AWD. Minor styling changes between the Talon and the Eclipse segregated these two vehicles.
The third generation of the eclipse appeared in 2000 and remained in production until 2005. It was a drastic styling change from its pior-self, with styling cues borrowed from the Mitsubishi SST design study which had debuted at the 1998 North American International Auto Show.
The Eclipse now shared a platform with the 8th generation Galant. Weight and size increased, and so did the engines displacement size. The base engine was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 140 horsepower. The 3.0-liter V6 engine raised horsepower to the tune of 200 horsepower.
The GTS trim was introduced in 2003. It had a 10:1 compression ratio and an improved Variable Induction Management air intake system that raised horsepower by 10.
The fourth generation of the Eclipse was shown at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show. The big news was the 3.8-liter V6 engine that raised horsepower to 263. The base 2.4-liter engine is rated at 165 horsepower. There is only one drive type available - front wheel drive. The Spyder version was released for 2007 at the North American International Auto Show.
2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse Concept-E |
|
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Eclipse Concept-E |
| Engine Location | Front |
| Drive Type | Rear Wheel |
| Production Years for Series | 2006 - |
| Combined MPG | 0.00 |
| Introduced At | 2004 Detroit Mi |
| Engine | |
| Engine Configuration | V |
| Cylinders | 6 |
| Aspiration/Induction | Normal |
| Displacement | 3.80 L | 231.9 cu in. | 3800.8 cc. |
| Horsepower | 269.00 BHP (198 KW) |
| HP / Liter | 70.8 BHP / Liter |
| Transmission Information | |
| Gears | 6 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Information | |
| Gears | 6 |
| Transmission | Manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Standard Payload | 0.00 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 |
| Exterior | |
| Length | 170.101 in | 4320.6 mm. |
| Width | 73.001 in | 1854.2 mm. |
| Height | 51.201 in | 1300.5 mm. |
| Wheelbase | 103.701 in | 2634 mm. |
| Vehicles with similar dimensions | |
| Suspension | |
| Suspension | Front : Independent Strut-Type Rear : Independent Multi-Link |
| Steering | |
| Rack and Pinion | |
| Tires / Wheels | |
| Tires | Front : 245/40R20 Rear : 275/35R20 |
| Similar Automakers |
| Add Review |
| View Reviews (49) |
| Mitsubishi History |
| Manufacturer Website |
| Other models by Mitsubishi |
| View Specifications |
 |
| Articles and Event Coverage |
| 2004 Chicago IL |
| 2004 Detroit Mi |
| 2004 New York City, NY |
| Topics |
|
comments
Replies: 49 Wednesday, December 31, 2003 |
| 2004 Mitsubishi models |
| Eclipse |
| Endeavor |
| Galant |
| Lancer |
| Lancer Evolution VIII |
| Lancer WRC04 |
| Outlander |
| Pajero Evolution | 2004 Mitsubishi Concepts |
| Mitsubishi Sport Truck |
| Vehicle Spotlight | ||
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
Conceptcarz.com
| Site Map
| Contact
| Terms Of Use | Links | RSS
| Top
Automobile information, history, and statistics from concept to production. | © 1998-2008 Conceptcarz.com
Automobile information, history, and statistics from concept to production. | © 1998-2008 Conceptcarz.com