Mitsubishi has announced its plans to introduce a new electric vehicle (EV) based on the upcoming 2026 Nissan Leaf, marking a significant step forward in the automaker's EV journey. With a more modern design and enhanced range, this new EV promises to offer better performance and more capabilities than Mitsubishi's previous efforts in the electric car space.
2026 Nissan Leaf Will Be the Basis for Mitsubishi’s New EV
In 2026, Nissan will unveil the third generation of the Nissan Leaf, transforming it from a compact hatchback into a small SUV. This new iteration will feature an impressive range of over 300 miles on a full charge, giving it a more competitive edge in the EV market. However, the Leaf will not offer all-wheel drive, sticking to a front-wheel-drive setup with a single electric motor.
Mitsubishi will launch its own version of this vehicle in the second half of 2026, likely using the same powertrain and range as the Nissan Leaf. The new Mitsubishi model will likely be a compact crossover, similar to the Nissan Leaf in terms of size and performance, making it a strong contender in the growing EV segment.
The Legacy of Mitsubishi’s EV Journey
Mitsubishi entered the EV market early with the iMiEV in 2012. However, that model was limited in performance, with a small 62-mile range and modest speed capabilities. Fast forward to today, and Mitsubishi is ready to make a comeback with a more capable, high-performance EV aimed at the North American market.
This new Mitsubishi EV will benefit from the latest advancements in electric vehicle technology, thanks to its collaboration with Nissan. The car is expected to feature similar powertrain options to the Leaf, ensuring it provides a solid range and reliable performance.
Collaboration Between Nissan and Mitsubishi 🤝
Mitsubishi's new EV is a product of its ongoing partnership with Nissan. As part of this collaboration, Mitsubishi will also share its expertise in plug-in hybrid technology, which it has honed through models like the Outlander PHEV. This technology will be used in Nissan’s refreshed 2026 Rogue SUV, highlighting the strength of their strategic alliance.
Both the 2026 Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi's electric SUV will come equipped with a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, making them compatible with Tesla’s Supercharger network, enhancing their convenience for users.
What’s Next for Mitsubishi's New EV?
Mitsubishi has not yet revealed the official name for the upcoming EV, but it has recently registered several iconic names, including Lancer, Lancer Evolution, Colt, Galant, and Montero, in the United States. The Lancer or Colt names are likely candidates for the new vehicle, potentially aligning it with Mitsubishi’s strong legacy in the compact vehicle market.
While further details about the vehicle’s exact specifications and features are yet to be disclosed, Mitsubishi’s new electric model is expected to be a game-changer in the North American EV landscape when it hits showrooms in 2026.
Mitsubishi EV Specifications
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Conclusion
Mitsubishi’s upcoming EV, based on the 2026 Nissan Leaf, marks a major step forward for the brand in the electric vehicle market. With a 300+ mile range and a compact SUV design, this model is set to compete in the North American market. The collaboration with Nissan strengthens both brands’ EV offerings, making this a much-anticipated launch in 2026.
Exciting times ahead for Mitsubishi’s electric future! 🚗