The Mitsubishi motors is reported to be planning to launch the hybrid version of its Outlander SUV by April, 2013. Hybrids were amongst the most popular vehicles in the SUV segment in 2011 with over 11 models on the market. The Outlander has been an extremely successful model for Mitsubishi since its introduction back in 2001. The name Outlander was adopted for this model since 2005 and Mitsubishi has been upgrading its styling and features every few years. In 2011 the Outlander sold in excess of 150,000 vehicles, most of them outside Japan. The 2013 hybrid version appears set to continue the Outlander success story.
Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid
The 2013 Hybrid version of the Outlander is expected to be the concept car MI-PEV II that was displayed at the Tokyo Auto Show in the last week of November 2011. This concept SUV has a 2.0 liter 4 cylinder 70 KW engine that drives the front wheels. The two rear axles are driven by electric motors that draw power from a lithium ion battery pack. The total power output with the electric motors is around 120 KW, about the same power level as the 2.4 liter engine on the current gasoline model of the Outlander. The electric motor drive is designed to provide 100 per cent instant torque that helps the hybrid SUV achieve acceleration comparable to an Outlander with the larger 3.0 liter engine.
The lithium ion battery pack can power the car for a range of 31 miles. When the battery charge falls below threshold, the gasoline engine starts up to recharge the battery. The hybrid also features battery recharging from brake energy. The SUV is also fitted with a quick-charge port for overnight battery charging or top up charging at parking lots where power outlets are available. The gasoline tank is large enough to hold fuel for a 500 mile range. The hybrid vehicle is claimed to deliver 60 km per liter (141 miles per gallon), the reason SUV buyers are interested in hybrids. This fuel efficiency is significantly better than the Ford Escape which was the best seller in 2011.
The 2009 Outlander had a major external makeover and improved interiors. The 2013 Hybrid Outlander should get even better. The SUV has good maneuverability and stability due to four wheel traction control that has been adapted from the Lancer series of vehicles. An interesting new feature in the MI-PEV is an electric outlet point to which external electrical devices can be connected. This outlet could be used for lights during outdoor camping, or an electric heater to cook food or boil water.
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