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Mitsubishi is investing heavily in electric vehicle technology, and their new Outlander is one model that'll soon offer shoppers a fuel-saving alternative to a conventional gas-powered model. With the all-electric Mitsubishi i MiEV already on the road, the upcoming Outlander PHEV will further the Japanese automaker's electric vehicle offerings, while giving competitors like the plug-in powered Toyota RAV-4 EV a run for its money.
Set to debut initially in Japan, the Outlander PHEV hits their dealer lots next week. Officials say the unique model combines EV technologies developed by Mitsubishi with proven four-wheel drive technology and expertise gleaned from decades of building utility vehicles. The resulting model will give owners the environmental friendliness of an electric vehicle, the confidence of a 4x4, and the practicality of a sport ute.
At Outlaner PHEV's core is a two-motor drive system, which features a high-capacity battery delivering up to 1,500 watts of juice. That juice can be sourced from a plug, or the PHEV's unique Battery Charge Mode, which uses the gas engine to charge the batteries while stationary or on the go.
All-electric operation is possible in everyday use, while the gas engine provides extended range and propulsion for highway driving—making Outlander PHEV a real-world friendly, partially-electric machine. On electric power alone, Mitsubishi promises a cruising range of about 60 kilometres. Voyages exceeding the electric-only range are facilitated by the gas engine, extending overall range to around 900 kilometres. A sophisticated computer system constantly optimizes power usage, and regenerative braking captures waste energy for recharging of the battery. At high speeds, the gas engine does most of the work, but recharges the batteries in the process.
That gas engine is a variant of the 4B11—namely, a two-litre unit equipped with a slick MIVEC variable valve timing system for maximum efficiency. In effect, this system actively regulates engine breathing requirements to turn in optimal fuel efficiency in all situations while it's running.
All said, drivers travelling less than 60 kilometres before recharging can expect to use virtually no fuel—and those planning longer voyages can set out without range anxiety. Oh, and if your Outlander PHEV's battery is full when you get to your destination, the Japanese press release says you can even use the stored electricity to “power appliances”.
The Outlander PHEV's twin-motor drive system is a natural fit with Mitsubishi's S-AWC technology, mainly because of the electric motor's ability to generate instant torque output. The result, say Mitsubishi officials, is acceleration comparable to a high-displacement gas engine alongside superior environmental performance.
Additionally, using two motors (one at each axle) to propel the four-wheel drive system, Mitsubishi says the PHEV Twin Motor 4WD system delivers better response and finer control than standard four-wheel drive, alongside reduced gas-sucking friction. The system even offers a ‘LOCK' mode, which drivers can select ahead of driving over slippery terrain for more sure-footed traction.
The Outlander PHEV can be charged in 4 hours on a 200-volt AC plug, while an optional factory quick-charging device can bring an empty battery back up to 80 percent in about half an hour.
Of course, the latest safety, connectivity and driver-assist systems will be on board, too. Keep your eyes on Mitsubishi for more details.
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Set to debut initially in Japan, the Outlander PHEV hits their dealer lots next week. Officials say the unique model combines EV technologies developed by Mitsubishi with proven four-wheel drive technology and expertise gleaned from decades of building utility vehicles. The resulting model will give owners the environmental friendliness of an electric vehicle, the confidence of a 4x4, and the practicality of a sport ute.
At Outlaner PHEV's core is a two-motor drive system, which features a high-capacity battery delivering up to 1,500 watts of juice. That juice can be sourced from a plug, or the PHEV's unique Battery Charge Mode, which uses the gas engine to charge the batteries while stationary or on the go.
All-electric operation is possible in everyday use, while the gas engine provides extended range and propulsion for highway driving—making Outlander PHEV a real-world friendly, partially-electric machine. On electric power alone, Mitsubishi promises a cruising range of about 60 kilometres. Voyages exceeding the electric-only range are facilitated by the gas engine, extending overall range to around 900 kilometres. A sophisticated computer system constantly optimizes power usage, and regenerative braking captures waste energy for recharging of the battery. At high speeds, the gas engine does most of the work, but recharges the batteries in the process.
That gas engine is a variant of the 4B11—namely, a two-litre unit equipped with a slick MIVEC variable valve timing system for maximum efficiency. In effect, this system actively regulates engine breathing requirements to turn in optimal fuel efficiency in all situations while it's running.
All said, drivers travelling less than 60 kilometres before recharging can expect to use virtually no fuel—and those planning longer voyages can set out without range anxiety. Oh, and if your Outlander PHEV's battery is full when you get to your destination, the Japanese press release says you can even use the stored electricity to “power appliances”.
The Outlander PHEV's twin-motor drive system is a natural fit with Mitsubishi's S-AWC technology, mainly because of the electric motor's ability to generate instant torque output. The result, say Mitsubishi officials, is acceleration comparable to a high-displacement gas engine alongside superior environmental performance.
Additionally, using two motors (one at each axle) to propel the four-wheel drive system, Mitsubishi says the PHEV Twin Motor 4WD system delivers better response and finer control than standard four-wheel drive, alongside reduced gas-sucking friction. The system even offers a ‘LOCK' mode, which drivers can select ahead of driving over slippery terrain for more sure-footed traction.
The Outlander PHEV can be charged in 4 hours on a 200-volt AC plug, while an optional factory quick-charging device can bring an empty battery back up to 80 percent in about half an hour.
Of course, the latest safety, connectivity and driver-assist systems will be on board, too. Keep your eyes on Mitsubishi for more details.
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| Photo: Mitsubishi |