The Mitsubishi XR-PHEV Concept is a futuristic next-generation compact crossover that blends the functionality of an SUV, the dramatic, eye-catching appeal and performance of a sports coupe and the drivetrain of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) into one.
The stylized and modern driver-focused cabin is highly refined, technologically-advanced and comfortable for all of the vehicle’s occupants. In addition to its futuristic design both inside and out, the Mitsubishi XR-PHEV Concept features a host of next-generation active safety system technologies and its eco-friendly PHEV drivetrain offers sports car-like performance and exceptional fuel economy because of its Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle (MiEV) technology.
MiEV technology is showcased in Mitsubishi’s production cars including the highly innovative 100% electric-powered Mitsubishi i-MiEV – the most affordably-priced EV available in America today – and the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV that is proving popular with both consumers and the media overseas. Mitsubishi’s MiEV technology is also the driving force behind the 100% electric-powered Mitsubishi MiEV Evolution III race cars that dominated the competition in the famous Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, shattering the EV class record by 38 seconds and finishing second and third overall.
Technology
A next-generation plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) system featuring Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle (MiEV) technology provides a compelling and futuristic drivetrain to match the Mitsubishi XR-PHEV Concept’s dynamic and forward-thinking design.
MiEV technology is the proprietary EV and PHEV-based drivetrain systems of Mitsubishi Motors, featuring components and software that have been engineered to deliver outstanding capability, safety and reliability. MiEV technology powers production vehicles including the 100% electric-powered Mitsubishi i-MiEV and the plug-in hybrid Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.
The motive force for this concept-car creation by Mitsubishi Motors comes in the form of a front engine/front-wheel drive gasoline-powered 1.1-liter inline-3-cylinder turbocharged engine (134 horsepower/100 kW) paired with a lightweight, compact and high-efficiency electric motor (161 horsepower/121 kW) with a high-boost converter and a main drive lithium-ion battery pack with storage capacity of 14 kWh (located beneath the floor of the cabin). This potent yet extremely efficient powertrain combination makes for exciting sports car-like acceleration while offering exemplary fuel and energy efficiency – truly the best of both worlds.
A new component development to the MiEV technology system which is included on the XR-PHEV Concept is the high-boost converter. This converter raises the MiEV system to 700 volts and helps to further improve energy output and efficiency from both the electric motor as well as the generator.
For additional power optimization with reduced exhaust emissions, the 1.1-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine benefits from the latest iteration of Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) variable valve-timing.
When operating from the “EV” drive setting (which is the XR-PHEV Concept’s standard driving mode), the PHEV powertrain automatically selects from the three drive system settings – EV, Series Hybrid and Parallel Hybrid. It chooses the one best-suited for that particular driving condition, taking onto consideration the remaining battery charge level within the main-drive lithium-ion battery pack. Additionally, if the driver wants to remain driving the car purely in “EV” mode, this is possible by selecting Battery Charge Mode (gas engine will operate essentially as a generator to replenish the energy supply of the main-drive lithium-ion battery pack) or in Battery Save Mode (depending on how low the energy level of the main-drive lithium-ion battery pack is, the system will reduce electric energy expenditure on “non-vital” systems such as air conditioning, etc. and will allow EV driving for a limited distance/duration).
Adding to this intelligent drivetrain’s versatility, the XR-PHEV Concept has been fitted with several 100 volt AC onboard electrical outlets that are capable of delivering an external power supply of up to 1500 watts of power. This allows the vehicle to supply enough electricity to power the typical household’s domestic appliances for a full day from energy stored within the main-drive lithium-ion battery pack and up to a maximum of 10 days when the engine (with a full tank of gas) is used to recharge the energy supply within the main-drive lithium-ion battery pack.
