Mitsubishi showcases latest tri-motor plug-in hybrid

Ground Tourer PHEV Concept to star at this month's Paris motor show incorporating the next step in design and technology.

I’ve lost track with Mitsubishi’s concept cars…

True, Mitsubishi has lately been churning out a plethora of concept cars that all look practically the same on and under the skin.

But let’s not forget that the Japanese carmaker has already announced its intentions of concentrating purely on pickups and SUVs, hence this so-called GT (Ground Tourer) PHEV Concept that will star on the brand’s stage at the Paris motor show later this month.

Note the evolution of Mitsubishi’s current design language which is something you’d either love or loathe. The interior is also claimed to have a cockpit-like feel for all occupants, although Mitsubishi has yet to disclose any pictures of it.

What kind of plug-in hybrid is there in the concept?

As the name clearly indicates, the GT is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. Mitsubishi hasn’t mentioned the basic petrol engine, but it would probably be the 2.0-litre MIVEC unit currently used in the Outlander SUV that’s not sold in Thailand.

The highlight of the hybrid is the use of three electric motors, one on the front axle and two on the rear. Such a setup also allows for better driving dynamics and handling of the vehicle.

More importantly, Mitsubishi says this next-generation hybrid allows the GT to drive in pure electric mode for 120km and to bring the total theoretical touring range to 1,200km.

Not bad. Will it be made?

Style-wise, the GT PHEV Concept could influence the appearance of all future SUVs like the Outlander. It could even inspire the Pajero Sport in the future, although the concept’s horizontal rear lights contrasts with the vertical lamps in today’s model (good or bad thing, please cue in the arguments).

Technically speaking, the tri-motor hybrid should appear in the next-gen Outlander, as this is currently Mitsubishi’s flagship SUV in terms of technology and market position.