Mitsubishi GT-PHEV Concept unveiled in Paris

Mitsubishi GT-PHEV Concept unveiled in Paris

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Mitsubishi has unveiled its GT-PHEV Concept at the Paris Motor Show, emphasising its focus on both electrified drivetrains and the SUV market.

The bold design previews a future design direction for the Japanese manufacturer which incorporates the now familiar Dynamic Shield grille. The rest of the styling details are new though with thin LED lights, a ‘floating’ roof, high window line, and stylish rear.

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The interior moves upmarket too with controls moves closer to the users and a large digital instrument display. Controls have been designed to be easier to use off road, and the quality of the interior trim is said to take inspiration from Japanese craftsmanship.

Importantly, under the skin sits a new PHEV system which uses three motors to drive all four wheels. A 25 kWh battery is mounted under the floor – more than twice the current model’s capacity and more than an entry level Nissan Leaf. That powers one 90kW electric motor mounted on the front axle and two 45kW motors at the rear.

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A 2.5 litre petrol engine sits under the bonnet which has been designed for PHEV use. When acting as a generator rather than as a direct power supply for the wheels, the engine runs at a high thermal efficiency, and the overall size of the engine has been optimised for use in parallel drive mode.

As a result, the GT-PHEV Concept has a range of 120km (75 miles) on electric-power only, and a total range that rivals large diesel models of 1,200km (745 miles) from a full tank and charge. CO2 emissions have been calculated to be under 26 g/km, with all these figures combining to take the PHEV market a significant step forward.

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Although all labeled as a concept, there is little on show that wouldn’t be production possible when toned down a little. The rear-hinged rear doors for example would likely be lost in production form, the design made a little less aggressive, and the interior more practical. However, the concept looks very likely to form a strong foundation for the replacement for the aging Shogun SUV.