Yesterday's announcement that the Mitsubishi Evo X might be the last one of its kind started a media frenzy. This made the Japanese manufacturer release a statement to clarify the matter. The X is going to be the last Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution in this form, meaning with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. Apparently, the Evolution franchise will continue to live, but a hybrid powertrain instead.

Mitsubishi Motor Corporation release a letter that says the Mitsubishi Evo name will continue to be in the company's line-up even after 2013, when the current version will go out of production. However, the company feels it has to adapt to changing market conditions, which will determine it head towards greener engine solutions. These will include hybrid and electric powertrains. So, the next generation Evo, will probably get a hybrid engine, or even an electric one. A few year back, Mitsubishi presented an electric concept of the Evo, that had, instead of the classic four-wheel-drive system, four electric motors, each driving one of the wheels.

We'll keep you updated with the latest developments and updates regarding the next generation Mitsubishi Evo. The British press reports today that the Mitsubishi Evo X might very well be the last of the breed. Apparently, global product director Gayu Eusegi, stated in an interview that the Evo has reached the end of its career. The X will be the last version ever produced, despite the fact that the rally inspired street racer is still in great demand everywhere.

Lately, Mitsubishi is steering its product line to greener, more environment friendly vehicles. They've announced various future models which will be powered by hybrid and electric powertrains. The 2.0-liter, turbocharged, rally inspired Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution just doesn't fit the company's policy anymore. Previously, various rumors said that the next generation Mitsubishi Evolution will probably be a diesel hybrid. At the time, enthusiasts and fans argued that such a move would probably mean the end of the "rally car for the road" brand. It seems that they were wrong. This will be the end of the Evo.

When asked, company officials confirmed that the Evo X will be kept in production until 2013, but refused to give details regarding their future plans. Some consider this statement a confirmation of the rumor, but don't jump to conclusions just yet. The Evo is the car that put Mitsubishi on the map for a huge percentage of their current customers. We're not really sure the Japanese car manufacturer is ready to give up on so many customers. They will lose not only a large chunk of their sales, but also a large section of the profit they get from servicing these EVOs. We have to tell you, the regular inspection bill is not exactly cheap.

We'll have more details on the future Mitsubishi Evolution, if it will ever be another one again, as soon as they're available.

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