Mitsubishi Confirms All-New EV for Summer 2026, Built on Nissan Leaf Platform
Mitsubishi is making headlines again, and this time, it’s not for its long-standing Outlander or Eclipse Cross SUVs. The Japanese automaker has finally announced its second electric vehicle (EV) for the U.S. market, marking its first new model in five years. This fresh addition to Mitsubishi’s lineup is set to arrive in the summer of 2026, ushering in a new era of electrification.
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Collaboration With Nissan – A Strategic Move
Mitsubishi will be partnering with Nissan to develop this upcoming EV. The model will be built on the next-generation Nissan Leaf platform, leveraging Nissan’s advanced electric technology while incorporating Mitsubishi’s unique design language and features. Additionally, Mitsubishi has confirmed that it will supply a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) to Nissan, which will also be launched in 2026.
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The Momentum 2030 Plan – Five New Cars in Five Years
The new EV is a crucial component of Mitsubishi’s Momentum 2030 business strategy—a roadmap designed to reinvigorate the brand’s presence in North America. The plan includes launching one new or fully redesigned vehicle every year between 2026 and 2030, significantly expanding Mitsubishi’s product lineup.
Currently, Mitsubishi sells only three models in the U.S.:
- Outlander – A popular midsize SUV with an available plug-in hybrid variant
- Outlander Sport – A compact crossover known for affordability and practicality
- Eclipse Cross – A stylish SUV blending coupe-like aesthetics with SUV capabilities
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What to Expect From Mitsubishi’s Next-Gen EV
While Mitsubishi has yet to reveal an official name or full details, its Nissan Leaf-based EV is expected to bring fresh styling, improved range, and advanced technology. The next-gen Leaf platform is shifting from a traditional hatchback to a crossover-style body, offering more space, higher ground clearance, and better versatility for American consumers. Built on Nissan’s CMF-EV platform, this vehicle will likely be larger than the current Leaf but smaller than the Nissan Ariya.
Production details remain uncertain, but reports suggest the new Mitsubishi EV will either be manufactured at Nissan’s Canton, Mississippi plant, or possibly in Sunderland, U.K. Mitsubishi is also collaborating with Foxconn’s Foxtron Vehicle Technologies to develop another EV, further diversifying its electric lineup.
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With this ambitious strategy, Mitsubishi aims to reclaim its status as an innovative and competitive force in the U.S. auto market. The introduction of a Nissan Leaf-based EV and continued electrification efforts position the brand for long-term success amid the global shift toward sustainable mobility.
