- New EV shares model name with evergreen ASX.
- Built in Taiwan by Mitsubishi partner Foxtron.
- Performance GSR version will top the range.
Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand (MMNZ) has confirmed it will launch the pure-electric ASX VR-e in the fourth quarter of this year. It's been a long time between BEVs for the brand: while it's a big deal in the plug-in hybrid space with the Outlander, its last battery-only car was the tiny iMiEV, imported in small numbers from 2011 (but still NZ's first official BEV offering).
It's absolutely no relation to the current ASX, which was launched back in 2010 and is set to continue "for the foreseeable future" says MMNZ.
The ASX VR-e is the Kiwi-market version of the much-talked-about Model B, a model built in Taiwan by Foxtron (a subsidiary of iPhone manufacturer Foxtronn) and design by Pininfarina.
MMNZ says the use if the ASX badge builds on the success of that model, although presumably its performance and technology aspirations are somewhat higher. The ASX VR-e range will be headlined by a high-performance GSR model, with Exceed, XLS and LS options also available.
MMNZ also says the VR-e designation is derived from the Galant VR-4, a classic high-performance sports sedan, reflecting a "sporty driving character, electrified technology and advanced features."
Key styling/aero features include an S-Duct, which channels airflow from the centre of the front bumper over the hood surface, and active grille shutters, which help reduce aerodynamic drag according to driving conditions.
Horizontal stripe motifs have been incorporated into the front and rear lighting signatures, rear pillars, and dedicated wheel design.
Detailed specification, pricing and additional information will be announced "in the coming months" says MMNZ.
The ASX VR-e will follow another new electrified product from MMNZ, the Outlander Sport: a compact SUV that's also its first full (non-plug-in) hybrid.
