This year in Geneva Mitsubishi is offering a sequel to the Concept XR-PHEV unveiled at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show. Unsurprisingly called Concept XR-PHEV II, the study is a small SUV powered by a new plug-in hybrid EV (PHEV) system.
The concept previews a small SUV expected to be the brand’s second PHEV after the Outlander PHEV. The study features a front-engine/front-drive system estimated to achieve CO2 emissions of below 40 g/km, while also delivering plenty of performance thanks to its 120kW (163PS) electric motor.
The plug-in hybrid powertrain includes a MIVEC petrol engine, a new electric motor/generator and a new power drive unit all mounted up front. The new power drive unit comprises an inverter and variable voltage system to achieve high power and high torque.
Mitsubishi says the PHEV system is designed to operate primarily in all-electric mode, with the engine acting as a generator or supplying additional power when needed. Depending on driving conditions and remaining battery charge, the system automatically switches between all-electric, series hybrid and parallel hybrid modes.
As far as the design is concerned, there are some significant differences to the 2013 version. The most obvious changes are at the rear, where the Concept XR-PHEV II features a design that mirrors the shape of the front grille. The front end features more subtle modifications, while the interior has been redesigned to look more like a production model.
Mitsubishi states that the cockpit was made to “functionally enhance the driver’s focus with controls concentrated in the center console and in the steering wheel.” The cabin features an aluminum frame that spreads out sideways from the central console to support the dashboard, while black-and-silver hues provide a high contrast.
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