Rahul Somvanshi
Sunita Somvanshi
Mitsubishi is jumping back into the electric car market with a new model coming to U.S. and Canadian streets in summer 2026. This marks their first fully electric car in North America since 2009, when they introduced the compact i-MiEV.
The new electric car comes at a time when more drivers are looking at electric options due to rising gas prices and better charging networks. Mitsubishi is teaming up with Nissan to build this car, sharing the basic engineering that will also power the next version of Nissan’s popular LEAF electric car. While both cars will share the same foundation underneath, each will have its own unique style and features.
Mark Chaffin, who leads Mitsubishi’s North American operations, sees this as part of the company’s comeback story. “Mitsubishi Motors is on an upward trajectory, especially in the United States,” he says. “Our plan is clear, our path is mapped out.”
The timing matters. Mitsubishi currently sells about four different models through its 330 U.S. dealers. Their plan, called “Momentum 2030,” will nearly double that number. Each year from 2026 to 2030, drivers will see either a completely new Mitsubishi or a major update to an existing model.
Mitsubishi has already proven they know how to blend electric and gas power successfully. Their Outlander Plug-in Hybrid, which can run on either electricity or gas, leads sales in its category in Canada. It was also the first SUV to offer this type of dual-power system.
Looking ahead, Mitsubishi isn’t putting all its eggs in one basket. They’ll keep offering different types of vehicles: regular gas engines, plug-in hybrids that can use both gas and electricity, and fully electric cars. This gives drivers options based on their daily driving needs, charging access, and budget.
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The new electric car will likely be a crossover – a vehicle type that combines the comfort of a car with the space and higher seating of an SUV. This matches what most North American drivers currently prefer. While Mitsubishi hasn’t revealed the car’s driving range, charging time, or price yet, they’re building it to compete in today’s more demanding electric car market.
Mitsubishi is also updating how people buy their cars. Beyond just launching new models, they’re working on making the buying process more modern and expanding their dealer network to reach more communities.
The company’s experience with both the i-MiEV electric car and Outlander Plug-in Hybrid has taught them valuable lessons. They understand what works and what doesn’t when it comes to electric vehicles. The partnership with Nissan adds even more electric vehicle expertise to the mix.
Kenichi Kawaji, who runs Mitsubishi’s Canadian operations, notes growing customer interest in electric vehicles. The dealer network will play a key role in helping buyers understand their options and choose the right vehicle for their needs.
This move puts Mitsubishi back in the electric vehicle race as other car makers expand their electric offerings. Their balanced approach – offering gas, hybrid, and fully electric options – recognizes that different drivers have different needs.
Mitsubishi will reveal more details about the car’s features and price as the 2026 launch date gets closer. For now, this announcement shows they’re serious about offering more electric choices in North America, backed by their partnership with Nissan and Renault.
