Mitsubishi announces today that it will be showing the new Lancer Evolution (Lancer Evolution X in Japan market) high-performance 4WD sedan, which is to be launched on the Chinese market this fall, at the Beijing International Motor Show. The show opens for the press on April 20 and for the public on April 24 at the Beijing International Exhibition Center. Also on display will be the Mitsubishi Concept-RA*1, which embodies the fun-to-drive and heightened sensitivity for the environment that lie at the heart of Mitsubishi Motors' car building activities, and the Prototype-S sport hatchback concept, both of which are being unveiled in the Asia region for the first time. Joining these on the Mitsubishi Motors stand in a lineup of 13 models is the i MiEV electric vehicle, currently being developed as a symbol of the company's approach to environmental issues and with a view to introduction on markets outside Japan.

In Mitsubishi Motors' new Step Up 2010 mid-term business plan announced on February 29 the company designates China one of its "focus" markets for the coming years, partly because of rapidly growing demand for automobiles in the country. The company plans to introduce six new models into the market over the next three years, including some built locally.

The Lancer Evolution, to be announced at the Beijing Show, will be the first of these new models. Featuring Mitsubishi Motors' own S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) vehicle dynamics control system, Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission) and other new technologies; this is a new-generation high-performance 4WD sedan that allows drivers of all abilities to enjoy the highest levels of fun-to-drive performance safely and with confidence.

Lancer Evolution was very well received at its Japan launch last October, and the company has subsequently introduced the model on the North American, European (including Russia) and Australia markets. Its forthcoming introduction in China means that the model will be on sale in all of the world's major car markets.

The Mitsubishi Motors press briefing will be held from 1:00 pm on April 20 at the Mitsubishi Motors stand.