Currently reading: Mitsubishi plans Pikes Peak return with electric racer

Third-generation model of Mitsubishi's MiEV Evolution to race at Pikes Peak hillclimb later this month, with 603bhp coming from its electric motors

Mitsubishi will return to the Pikes Peak International Hillclimb event later this month with a new version of its MiEV Evolution electric racer.

The firm will be looking to improve on its finishing position in the Modified Electric Division last year, where it managed to grab second and third place using the MiEV Evolution II.

Updates for the MiEV Evolution II include a lighter chassis, which promises improved handling and traction thanks to a redesigned version of Mitsubishi's Super All-Wheel Control System. There's also a more aerodynamic bodywork package, and an increase in power from the car's electric motors to 603bhp - up from the 536bhp of last year's model.

The car's driver line-up remains unchanged from last year, with former Dakar Rally champion Hiroshi Masuoka piloting the car alongside previous Pikes Peak champion Greg Tracy.

Billed as the second-oldest motorsport event in America, the Pikes Peak hillclimb has been run since 1916, with teams looking to conquer the 12.42-mile, 156-turn course to become "king of the mountain."

Last year current champion Sébastien Loeb set a new record time of 8min13.878sec in his Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak special.

Re-live the excitement of last year's event with our Pikes Peak picture special.

John Howell

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