The 2009 Tokyo Motor Show is shaping up to be a rather sparse event, but Mitsubishi will be taking advantage of the lack of white noise by introducing its PX-MiEV concept. The new concept is intended to preview Mitsubishi’s future design language, as well as hint at some new technologies that could be hitting the road within the next few years.
The PX-MiEV – PX for plug-in hybrid crossover and MiEV for Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle – will showcase Mitsubishi’s new Plug-in Hybrid System. Combining series and parallel hybrid systems, the PX-MiEV concept is powered by electric motors at slow speeds, with a 1.6L gas engine providing propulsion at higher speeds. The PX-MiEV concept defaults to front wheel drive under normal driving conditions, but a rear-mounted electric motor kicks in if slippage is detected, offering the stability of all-wheel drive – dubbed E-4WD in Mitsubishi talk.
The PX-MiEV concept is designed to use the latest in smart grid technology, and can be recharged off a 100-volt or 200-volt domestic supply. Mitsubishi has also developed a quick charge system for the PX-MiEV concept. The PX-MiEV concept is capable of a 30-mile range in EV mode off a full charge.
Inside, Mitsubishi says the PX-MiEV sports a “Clean, Stress-free and Safe & Reassuring” theme. The material used on the concept’s seats is able to rid the cabin of allergens and kill odor-causing bacteria. The PX-MiEV also features windows that block harmful UV-A rays and Mitsubishi even include an oxygen enricher to reduce driver fatigue.
Passenger safety is also high on the PX-MiEV’s list, featuring new innovations such as a new Multi-Around Monitor and system that can detected a distracted or drowsy driver.
No word on production intent for the PX-MiEV concept, but we’re sure at least some of its features and overall styling will make it into a future Mitsubishi vehicle.
09/30, 6:55 PM
posted by:
A4
the front kinda looks like the VW UP, no?
09/30, 6:59 PM
posted by:
VDubFSI
I see a lot of ford’s latest front end styling in this. Instead of yet another SUV/CUV why not instead give us a new Galant. Also how about a Eclipse replacement that is more like the original, not the overweight girls car that it is now.
09/30, 7:43 PM
posted by:
DenverGuy217
thank GAWD it doesn’t have that stupid Lancer front end tacked onto it. This one might not be a style setter, but should bode well for the masses in this market
yes, bring over an Eclipse that returns to its roots….
09/30, 8:29 PM
posted by:
Elvacano
Show me something more realistic and then We’ll talk
09/30, 8:31 PM
posted by:
2WheeledSpeed
I hate the front and rear ends of this thing, Mitsu can build some great looking vehicles but this is not one of them.
09/30, 9:03 PM
posted by:
reedfast
that interior will never happen,
sorry Mitsubishi
09/30, 9:08 PM
posted by:
jayjc08
Some things look sort of Saabish (windscreen), sort of VWish (headlights), and I don’t think it looks bad but my reception is luke warm…
But my final comment is it certainly doesn’t look anything Mitsubishi. I don’t understand the concept behind the interior being “stress free”, as the amount of black/purple makes my eyes strain a little bit to look at the LCD controls.
Nice, but nothing that impresses me other than the drivetrain.
09/30, 9:33 PM
posted by:
ricky_b
reed – afraid I have to agree. sadly, that would be the only justification in my eyes for this thing. Not that it really matters that much. I’m convinced Mitsu won’t survive in the US for much longer.
09/30, 11:12 PM
posted by:
johnnycanuck
I’m afraid I have more faith in Pizza Hut’s attempt at pasta.
10/01, 12:08 AM
posted by:
VR666
I think this is more of a look at an Endeavor replacement. Better than that so I’ll give it a thumbs up.
10/01, 8:12 AM
posted by:
gehrhardt
That’s a big A$$ right there!
10/01, 10:54 AM
posted by:
Borat
Johnny, you a bit negative. perhaps you did not have Pizza Hut gourmet meals in person. It has nothing but stomach indigestion. However, that thingy has a similar effect.
10/01, 11:01 AM
posted by:
KarLoveBoy88
Mitsubishi are sh!t eaters! Why do they insist on copying the Land Rover LRX that is on my MacBook screen? The Japs are so original.
10/01, 1:29 PM
posted by:
HINKS
Looks like an Obese Outlander.
10/01, 8:58 PM
posted by:
VictorRaikkonen
Wait… Mitsu still makes cars, amazing.
10/01, 10:04 PM
posted by:
johnnycanuck
Borat, if I want ketchup on toast I’ll at least go for Heinz on a decent fresh sourdough.