Mitsubishi has announced plans to introduce its first fully electric vehicle to the U.S. market in 2026. The Japan-made EV will debut alongside an updated, higher-riding version of the Outlander in the second half of the year. While Mitsubishi has yet to reveal official details, industry sources suggest the vehicle will be a compact crossover coupe based on a Nissan platform.
By Rachel Hamilton
A Shared Platform with Nissan’s Future EVs?
Reports indicate that Mitsubishi’s new EV may share similarities with Nissan’s next-generation Leaf, expected to be built on the CMF-EV platform—the same architecture used for the Nissan Ariya. Nissan previewed this concept with its Chill-Out prototype, hinting at a compact crossover with advanced technology. If Mitsubishi adopts this platform, it could benefit from Nissan’s established EV expertise to strengthen its own position in the market.
Challenges After the End of the Mirage
While dealers welcome Mitsubishi’s entry into the EV market, many acknowledge that it will not compensate for the sales lost due to the discontinuation of the Mirage. The budget-friendly subcompact, which ceased production in December 2023, accounted for 28% of Mitsubishi’s U.S. sales. Dealers will continue selling remaining stock through late summer 2024, but Mitsubishi is exploring other strategies to fill the gap in its lineup.
Dealer Profitability and Strategic Adjustments
To support dealers, Mitsubishi is considering lowering prices on existing models, such as the Outlander Sport, and introducing a more affordable trim level. Mitsubishi Motors North America CEO Mark Chaffin stated that the company is developing dealer support programs to maintain profitability until new models arrive. Financial incentives are also being explored to boost sales and improve dealer margins, ensuring stability during this transition period.
Future Plans and Market Expansion
Mitsubishi has outlined an ambitious plan to introduce a new or updated model every year from 2026 through 2030. This initiative aims to modernize its lineup and position the brand more competitively in the evolving automotive landscape. The upcoming electric crossover will be a key step in Mitsubishi’s shift toward sustainable mobility and long-term growth in the U.S. market.
The introduction of Mitsubishi’s first U.S. EV marks a significant step in its transition toward electrification. With a commitment to annual model updates and strategic pricing adjustments, the company is preparing for a more competitive future.
Based on content from www.elektroauto-news.de and own research.