Mitsubishi’s Future Revealed with the Concept PX-MiEV

Mitsubishi used the Tokyo Motor Show as a launch pad for a number of vehicles, but perhaps most interesting was the rather non-snappily titled Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV (PX for plug-in hybrid crossover and MiEV for Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle). This electric hybrid joins the ranks of crossover 4x4s launched by major manufacturers recently, but in particular hints at the styling and technical direction that all Mitsubishi models will follow over the coming years such as the Lancer Evo XI and the Outlander.

First of all, the exterior styling is excellent with a very clean and futuristic design helped by the use of latest LED lighting systems. And inside, the futuristic theme continues with the cockpit belonging more in a plane than a car and a host of safety, entertainment and climate control gadgets housed in stylish trim. The seats even use an odour-eating material which also removes allergens.

The PX-MiEV’s four-wheel drive system is driven by two electric motors which put out 80bhp in total and a 114bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine kicks in to keep the batteries topped up. A computer decides which power plant is best suited to the driving conditions after sensing traction and correcting any slip and determining whether a boost is needed from the petrol engine for acceleration. Like other MiEV cars in Mitsubishi’s line up, the PX can be plugged straight in to a socket in your house.

Mitsubishi haven’t skimped on using cutting edge technology on their safety systems either. The car uses vehicle-to-vehicle communication to provide proximity warnings, has a detection system to check if the driver is paying attention to the road or falling asleep, an all-round viewing monitor, an electric toll payment device, UV-A protection from the windows and even an oxygen enricher to keep the occupants alert and healthy.

Many of these features and design cues should be first noticeable on the Outlander due out in 2011, but in the meantime, take a look at the current Mitsubishi Outlander available from just £289.08 per month.

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