Mitsubishi’s Renault Reliance: A Sign of Things to Come for European Automakers?
Mitsubishi is charting a new course in Europe, and it’s paved with Renault engineering. The recently unveiled second-generation Eclipse Cross, essentially a rebadged Renault Scenic E-Tech, signals a significant shift for the Japanese automaker and potentially foreshadows a broader trend within the European automotive landscape.
From Pioneer to Partner: Mitsubishi’s Electric Evolution
Mitsubishi once led the charge in electric vehicles with the i-MiEV, a pioneering fully electric car launched in 2009 that found success in markets like Norway. However, the company’s momentum stalled, opting for plug-in hybrids before facing financial difficulties. Now, with the Eclipse Cross EV, Mitsubishi is re-entering the all-electric arena, but this time, it’s doing so through a strategic partnership with Renault.
Badge Engineering and the European Market
The Eclipse Cross EV isn’t a ground-up design; it’s built by Renault in France and heavily based on the Scenic E-Tech. This approach isn’t unique. Mitsubishi now has more Renault-based models in Europe – the Colt (based on the Clio), ASX (based on the Captur), and Grandis (based on the Symbioz) – than models developed independently. This strategy reflects the financial realities of developing electric vehicles for a region where Mitsubishi currently holds a modest 0.4% market share.
What the Eclipse Cross EV Offers
The new Eclipse Cross EV boasts a 87 kWh battery pack, offering a range of up to 635 kilometers (approximately 373 miles). It features a 215 hp electric motor and a maximum charging speed of 170 kW. Visually, Mitsubishi has applied its design language with distinctive split LED headlights, a redesigned grille, and updated rear styling to differentiate it from the Renault Scenic E-Tech. The vehicle measures 4,470 mm (176 inches) in length with a wheelbase of 2,785 mm (109.6 inches).
The Allure of Collaboration: Cost and Efficiency
Developing a new electric vehicle from scratch is a costly undertaking. Leveraging existing platforms, like Renault’s Scenic E-Tech, allows Mitsubishi to enter the EV market more quickly and efficiently. This collaborative approach is becoming increasingly common as automakers seek to share the substantial financial burden of EV development and navigate the complexities of new regulations.
Will 4×4 Be a Dealbreaker?
Initially, the Eclipse Cross EV will be available only in front-wheel drive. This could be a disadvantage in Norway and other European markets where all-wheel drive is highly preferred, particularly during winter months. The lack of an AWD option may limit its appeal to a segment of the market accustomed to greater traction and stability.
Pricing and Competition
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Intense starts at 459,900 Norwegian kroner, with higher trims available at increased prices. The vehicle’s success will depend on its competitiveness within the crowded compact SUV segment, where rivals may offer larger sizes, all-wheel drive, and comparable pricing.
A Glimpse into the Future of European Automaking?
Mitsubishi’s reliance on Renault is not an isolated case. As the automotive industry transitions to electric power, we can expect to see more collaborations and badge-engineering initiatives. The high costs of EV development, coupled with stringent emissions regulations, are driving automakers to seek partnerships to share resources and accelerate innovation. This trend could reshape the European automotive landscape, with brands increasingly relying on shared platforms and technologies.
FAQ
Q: Is the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross EV the same as the Renault Scenic E-Tech?
A: While based on the Renault Scenic E-Tech, the Eclipse Cross EV features Mitsubishi-specific design elements and styling cues.
Q: What is the range of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross EV?
A: The Eclipse Cross EV offers a range of up to 635 kilometers (373 miles).
Q: Is the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross EV available with all-wheel drive?
A: No, the initial models are front-wheel drive only.
Q: What is the starting price of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross EV?
A: The starting price is 459,900 Norwegian kroner.
Q: How long is the warranty on the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross EV?
A: Mitsubishi offers an eight-year warranty on the Eclipse Cross EV.
Did you know? Mitsubishi was one of the first automakers to mass-produce a fully electric vehicle with the i-MiEV in 2009.
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