Electric technology. It’s in our DNA

EV HISTORY

Electric past, present and future

We believe a more vibrant society can be created through mobility. In other words, the more efficient ways we have of getting around, the better we’ll all be. That’s why we started our development into electric vehicle (EV) technology way back in 1970.

We are pioneers in vehicle electrification

In 2009, we launched the i-MiEV, the first ever mass-produced electric vehicle. More recently, we’ve been developing plug-in hybrid technology. A hybrid electric vehicle uses both a petrol engine and an internal battery as its main sources of power. But a Plug-in Hybrid EV (PHEV) has a battery which can be recharged from the mains. Our research and development in this area resulted in the 2013 launch of the OUTLANDER PHEV. In 2017 we introduced the e-Evolution concept car, which shows we’re already thinking about the future.

TECHNOLOGY

Mitsubishi Motors' innovation

Our PHEV system is based on EV technology and is an advanced series hybrid. It has twin motors: one on the front axle, and one on the rear. Having twin electric motors creates a superior EV system with 4WD capability.

PHEV SYSTEM

A vehicle that thinks for itself

Our PHEV System switches smoothly between driving modes to offer the most efficient performance.

EV Drive Mode (Electric motor only)

The motors power the vehicle using electricity from the battery, resulting in zero fuel consumption and zero CO2 emissions. The drive mode is quiet, clean and powerful. Maximum speed is 135km/h.

Series Hybrid Mode (Electric motor + Petrol engine generator)

The motors power the vehicle using engine-generated electricity. The engine generates electricity to recharge the battery when the level is low and to increase power when accelerating rapidly or climbing hills

Parallel Hybrid Mode (Petrol engine + Electric motor)

The engine powers the vehicle at high speeds etc, (when engine efficiency is high) with assistance from the motors when extra power is required.

PERFORMANCE

Cleaner. Quieter. Smoother

Having twin electric motors doesn’t just mean the car can be driven at speeds of up to 135km in pure electric (EV) mode. With no gears to change, there's no 'shift shock,' so you get a much smoother ride.

Better for the environment

Because our PHEV system harnesses electric power more often, and the 2.4-litre atkinson cycle engine is highly efficient, our PHEV vehicles have ultra-low CO2 emissions: 40g/km(NEDC) and 46g/km(WLTP).

S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control)

This integrated control system is only available from Mitsubishi Motors. It delivers incredible power and control by managing several on-board systems all at once: AYC (Active Yaw Control), ASC (Active Stability Control) with Traction Control and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). This means the Twin Motor 4WD system is working at its best, without compromising safety, comfort or fuel efficiency.

A new Drive Mode makes S-AWC even better because it lets you choose the best setting for your road conditions:

Use for regular driving on dry tarmac roads.

Easier starts and more secure cornering on snow-covered roads.

Evenly distributes power to all four wheels for improved traction and stability. Use on rough dirt and gravel roads.

Use this mode for quicker response on dryer, winding roads.

Less noise. More green

Having separately mounted motors on the front and rear axles not only delivers a smoother ride, it's also incredibly quiet. You could be gliding through the city streets or country roads in the early hours and no one will notice. And in all-electric driving mode, you'll benefit from zero fuel consumption and zero CO2 emissions.

RANGE

Go for miles without needing to refuel

Our PHEV drive system stores the electricity in a large capacity lithium-ion battery (13.8kw) which gives you a range of 33 miles. Combine that with the 2.4-litre atkinson cycle engine and you’ve got a total range of over 375miles (600km).

More ways to save with a PHEV

If you choose the OUTLANDER PHEV, there are several other ways that can help you keep your running costs down.

Innovation

See what the future holds

We've been pioneers for over 100 years, it's part of our DNA. So too is the need to innovate. This means we'll continue to develop greener, more sustainable vehicles which offer greater protection and make driving fun and pleasurable. Just like our e-EVOLUTION concept car.

Explore Innovation