Japan Mobility Show 2023 - Mitsubishi D:X Concept as all-wheel-drive van.
The D:X Concept could also pass as the L 300 van if you clear out the interior and switch to rear-wheel drive. But that doesn’t quite cut it, so Mitsubishi decided to combine the comfortable, pleasant, and spacious interior of an MPV with the road prowess of an SUV. Interestingly, this concept is designed as a PHEV and not as an electric vehicle.
According to the press release, the interior is intended to combine “maximum space and safety for people” with “maximum off-road feel for limitless adventure.” This means the concept takes inspiration from the current van “Delica,” which is not sold in Europe, and envisions it for the future.
And it worked: Strict window graphics from the front part of the cabin to the robust D-pillar ensure a machine-like timelessness, and the windshield extends all the way down. The sturdy fender flares and the large off-road wheels should protect the concept, which is also safeguarded by front and rear skid plates and side protection moldings, even in rough terrain.
Best "Visibility" from the Front Seats
The transparent hood, which extends from the windshield glass all the way down, displays a combination of information such as the surface conditions ahead and the steering angle of the front wheels. An open and wide field of view is offered, which enables a reassuring driving experience.
A voice-interactive AI concierge provides information on routes to destinations, weather conditions, and other information to ensure a safe and stress-free driving experience.
The D:X Concept "Illuminates" Its Own Lane
Also interesting is the front design concept of the “Dynamic Shield,” which is meant to exude safety. Even more exciting are the projection laser lights in the striking T-shaped lamps. The side vertical lights illuminate the edge of the road, creating a “lane” for the Delica and helping at night on narrow roads.
The color “Glamping Copper” with a new semi-matte texture, which exudes a sense of quality but would be really elaborate to polish and touch up, would not be suitable for rough last-mile and craftsman use….
Extremely Airy Interior
The spacious monobox interior provides ample room for all occupants and would also offer plenty of space for cargo. Panoramic seats, as well as a large front window and a transparent hood that offer an open, wide field of view, create an airy cockpit and provide a driving experience as if floating in the air – similar to a crane operator in his cabin. During breaks, the front seats can be turned around to create an interior space where all occupants can enjoy conversations.
A premium feel is generated by the brown genuine leather used for the dashboard and seats, while metal parts in aluminite gray are used as accents to convey a sense of high-quality equipment.
A new sound system developed in collaboration with the Yamaha Corporation is designed to provide powerful, three-dimensional sound. Numerous speakers are placed in the headrests and other suitable positions, allowing for an unparalleled sense of immersion in a spacious interior. According to Mitsubishi, all passengers can enjoy a "high-quality, immersive musical experience that enhances the excitement of adventure and provides soothing comfort during breaks."
Solid "Skeleton" as Basis
The pillar components, including the robust D-pillar, are interwoven with a reinforced "rib bone frame" with a rounded frame structure to create a stable passenger cell.
Less innovative: The integrated vehicle dynamics control system S-AWC. It is a plug-in that uses an electric 4WD system to primarily utilize the power for off-road applications – since an E-car provides instant torque without RPM.
What does this mean?
At the Japan Mobility Show, Mitsubishi is emphasizing its role as an off-road and utility provider. The study of an all-electric L-300 successor and antithesis to the ID.Buzz? Yes, please – build it and bring it to Europe!
Translated automatically from German.
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