Hybrid heroes

The Next Generation Outlander PHEV shows the future of cars.

Many of us would love to drive an electric vehicle (EV) – being able to reduce our carbon footprint while saving money at the bowser are major drawcards. It’s something that Mitsubishi recognised when it became the first manufacturer to introduce mass-produced electric cars and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) to NZ. The subsequent launch of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV was a game changer for encouraging Kiwis to make the switch to plug-in motoring. It offered people an SUV that was simultaneously friendly to the environment and to families, at an accessible price. The Next Generation Outlander PHEV takes it up another notch, with advances in Mitsubishi’s battery technology delivering a 52 per cent increase in EV range, meaning drivers can now enjoy up to 84km of driving without using fuel.

Since the release of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV in 2009, Mitsubishi has refined its EV technology. Its range of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles are a practical choice for the Kiwi driver eager for an environmentally friendly option but not willing to commit to a battery electric vehicle. PHEVs use batteries to power an electric motor, which is backed up by an engine. They offer the best of both worlds, allowing EV driving for everyday use, and motorbased hybrid driving for long-range travel. It’s an electric driving experience with the reassurance of a petrol engine. The battery is recharged by plugging into a power source, via regenerative braking while driving, or by the engine while driving.