Mitsubishi Motors has confirmed it will introduce a new electric vehicle in North America by summer 2026, marking its second-ever EV offering in the U.S. after the i-MiEV. The upcoming model will be based on Nissan’s third-generation Leaf and is being developed as part of Mitsubishi’s long-term “Momentum 2030” strategy. This initiative outlines the automaker’s plan to release a new or significantly refreshed vehicle every year through 2030, aiming to revitalize its presence and competitiveness in key markets.
The new EV will be built on the CMF-EV platform, the same architecture used by the Nissan Ariya SUV. This platform has already demonstrated capabilities of delivering up to 304 miles on a single charge, though Mitsubishi has not yet disclosed expected range figures or other technical specifications for its version. The unnamed vehicle is poised to serve a pivotal role in Mitsubishi’s goal of diversifying its product lineup to include internal combustion, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric options.
EV Push Reflects Mitsubishi’s U.S. Growth
Mitsubishi’s move to introduce a new electric vehicle underscores the company’s growing optimism about its U.S. business prospects. According to Mark Chaffin, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors North America, the automaker is experiencing an “upward trajectory” in the region. Chaffin pointed to a robust 11 percent increase in U.S. sales during the first quarter of 2025, led by the popularity of the Outlander SUV, which is also available in a plug-in hybrid version.
Chaffin emphasized that Mitsubishi’s approach is rooted in offering flexibility to consumers by combining multiple powertrain options. “This is about giving customers the choice of technology that best suits their needs,” he said, highlighting the importance of meeting diverse buyer preferences during the industry’s ongoing shift toward electrification.
With the forthcoming EV, Mitsubishi Motors aims to reinvigorate its reputation in the U.S. EV market—a sector in which it was once a pioneer but has since lagged behind more aggressive competitors. The collaboration with Nissan offers a promising path forward, leveraging proven electric drivetrain technology while allowing Mitsubishi to focus on unique design and branding for its own variant.
Production Questions and Tariff Concerns
While enthusiasm around the new EV is growing, one key question remains unanswered: Where will it be built? Mitsubishi Motors has not yet confirmed a production location. The company previously operated a plant in Normal, Illinois, which is now under the control of EV manufacturer Rivian. Without a domestic facility, Mitsubishi could face steep import tariffs of up to 25 percent on Japanese-made vehicles—restrictions still in place from the Trump administration.
To remain cost-competitive and avoid pricing hurdles, Mitsubishi may need to secure a U.S.-based manufacturing solution ahead of the 2026 launch. Whether through partnerships, new facilities, or shared production with Nissan, such a move could be critical for the vehicle’s commercial success in the American market.
As Mitsubishi Motors eyes a re-entry into the EV race with an eye toward long-term sustainability and innovation, its next step will be closely watched by industry analysts and EV enthusiasts alike.
