TOKYO: Fans have experienced the Outlander PHEV in car form, and it’s hardly surprising that Mitsubishi is also offering it as a van.
Indeed the PHEV Commercial is available in three trim levels, as the GX3H 4Work that fans have, as a higher spec GX4h and as a range-topping GX4hs. The base model is hardly basic though, with 18-inch alloys, cruise control, climate control, Bluetooth, front fogs, rear parking sensors and electric folding and heated mirrors.
The Outlander also comes with Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) which combines front and rear drive for both slippery road conditions and for off-road forays, though slightly chunkier tyres might be best for those looking to spend a lot of time on the rough.
In EV mode the vehicle is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack. This drives a front axle electric motor with up to 60kW and 137Nm of torque, plus a rear motor that can deliver 60kW and 195Nm. As with all electric vehicles this torque can be called upon at any time, providing rapid acceleration and strong overtaking ability.
The Outlander uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine to charge the battery in Series Hybrid mode. However if you require full acceleration or want to drive at higher motorway speeds, the petrol engine will also power the front wheels in Parallel Hybrid mode.
The driver can decide to save electric power for urban use and drive on the engine, or to charge on the go while the engine is also powering the wheels. During deceleration the motors also function as generators, pumping electricity back into the batteries.
The driveline is incredibly clever, works faultlessly and is deeply impressive. However, there is a problem. Mitsubishi promises up to 148mpg, and that just isn’t possible.
Specification:
Sector: Commercial Vehicle
Type: Petrol-electric Plug-in Hybrid
Price: £27,619 (including Plug-in Van Grant)
Fuel: 148mpg
Electric range: 32.5 miles
CO2 emissions (tailpipe): 44g/km
Charging port: J1772 AC & CHAdeMo DC
