Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) made a significant contribution to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society by auctioning off the very first Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Final Edition, designated US0001. This highly collectible vehicle, one of only 1,600 produced for the U.S. market, was donated to support the 29th annual MS Dinner Auction, a key fundraising event for the Pacific South Coast Chapter of the National MS Society.
The auction, designed to attract nationwide participation, commenced online via eBay ten days prior to the culminating MS Dinner Auction held on November 21st. This strategy broadened the reach of the auction, allowing Mitsubishi to maximize the donation to a cause deeply important to the company and its employees. The winning bid was finalized at the MS Dinner Auction, which took place at the Loews Coronado Bay Resort in Coronado, California, allowing attendees a final opportunity to engage in the bidding process. All proceeds from this landmark auction were directly channeled to the National MS Society, bolstering their ongoing efforts to combat multiple sclerosis.
Richard Israel, President of the National MS Society, Pacific South Coast Chapter, expressed profound gratitude for Mitsubishi Motors’ partnership and title sponsorship. He highlighted the critical impact of such contributions, stating, “With the support of Mitsubishi Motors we are able to fund cutting-edge research, drive change through advocacy, facilitate professional education, collaborate with MS organizations around the world, and provide programs and services designed to help people with MS and their families move their lives forward.” The donation of the US0001 Lancer Evolution Final Edition served as a cornerstone of this impactful collaboration.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution holds a special place in automotive history, particularly among enthusiasts who recognize it as a pioneering four-door sports car. The Final Edition represented the culmination of this legacy, marking the tenth and final year of production for this iconic model. Each of the 1,600 Final Edition vehicles produced for the U.S. market was uniquely numbered, further enhancing their collectibility. The Final Edition boasted impressive specifications, featuring a 5-speed transmission paired with a turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder 2.0L engine. This configuration made it the most powerful mass-produced Evolution to date, delivering 303 horsepower. Based on the GSR model, the Final Edition was further enhanced with performance upgrades including lightweight two-piece Brembo® brake rotors at the front, Bilstein shock absorbers, Eibach springs at all four corners, and Mitsubishi’s advanced Super All-Wheel Control system. These features underscored the vehicle’s high-performance pedigree and appeal to automotive aficionados.
Don Swearingen, executive vice president, MMNA, emphasized Mitsubishi Motors’ long-standing commitment to the National MS Society, spanning over 16 years of fundraising through various initiatives and sponsorships. He noted the significance of donating the Lancer Evolution Final Edition in this context: “It was only fitting that this year, to enhance our title sponsorship of the event, we donate something that means so much to the brand. By expanding the auction nationally, we hope to increase our donation to a charity that is near and dear to the hearts of everyone at Mitsubishi.” The auction of the US0001 model aimed to maximize charitable contributions and celebrate the end of an era for the Lancer Evolution.
For enthusiasts and potential bidders seeking detailed information on the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Final Edition, additional resources were made available through Mitsubishi’s media site. The auction listing itself, hosted on eBay, provided a direct avenue for participation, allowing individuals across the nation to bid on this unique piece of automotive history and contribute to the National MS Society’s vital mission.
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. continues to be a significant presence in the U.S. automotive market, focusing on research and development, marketing, and sales. The company is committed to innovation, particularly in the development of fuel-efficient gasoline-powered vehicles and future electric and PHEV models, leveraging their expertise in battery electric vehicle technology.
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is dedicated to empowering individuals affected by MS to live their best lives, working towards a future free of the disease. Through funding research, advocating for change, providing education, fostering global collaboration, and offering comprehensive programs and services, the Society provides crucial support to the MS community. Their extensive network and significant financial investment in research and support programs demonstrate their unwavering commitment to combating MS and improving the lives of those affected.
Multiple sclerosis remains a challenging and unpredictable disease affecting the central nervous system, disrupting communication between the brain and body. The National MS Society’s work is critical in addressing this condition and supporting those living with MS.
