Mitsubishi brings plug-in hybrid models to Eclipse Cross SUV range
Mitsubishi has introduced three new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle variants to its Eclipse Cross SUV range as part of a drive to make 50 per cent of its car sales electrified by 2030.
The company says the all-wheel-drive Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Plug-in Hybrid medium SUV offers “a premium plug-in EV-drivetrain, more power and more torque”.
The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) has two drive electric motors and a 2.4-litre petrol four-cylinder Atkinson Cycle MIVEC engine.
It can be recharged by plugging into a charging station or using the onboard generator and regenerative braking to recharge on the move. In fact, there are three ways to charge this car from external sources: plug it into any standard 10A power outlet; plug it into a Type 2 EV charger; or plug it into a compatible DC Rapid charger, which will let you reach an 80 per cent battery charge in around 25 minutes.
This model can travel more than 55km on a single battery charge before the petrol engine takes over, which means the average driver can use EV Mode for most of their weekly drive.
In fact, it seems that it might even be able to supply electricity to power your house in an emergency. When Mitsubishi Motors Corporation first announced the Eclipse Cross Plug-in Hybrid in Tokyo last December, it said: “The 100-volt AC on-board outlet with a maximum 1500 watts can supply power to electronics and appliances for outdoor leisure and as a reliable source of electricity in an emergency.
“The vehicle can also serve as a rechargeable battery that powers an entire household with its stored energy by connecting a V2H6 device to the quick-charging port. Since the vehicle can generate its own power, it can supply up to 10 days of power to a general household when fully charged and fuelled.”
Hybrids across the Mitsubishi range
As part of that target to make 50 per cent of its car sales electrified by 2030, this year Mitsubishi said that by then there will be an EV, PHEV or hybrid electric variant for each of the segments in which it operates.
In a statement, Mitsubishi Motors Australia CEO Shaun Westcott said: “The arrival of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Plug-in Hybrid EV completes the renewal of the Eclipse Cross SUV range in Australia.
“It brings a proven and successful zero or low emission powertrain that will meet the real-world needs of Australian SUV buyers looking to reduce their environmental impact.
“The Eclipse Cross has been successful in attracting customers to the Mitsubishi brand over the past four years. With the new look, enhanced technological specifications and the new Plug-in Hybrid option, we have a vehicle that will be even more appealing to urban couples or families who want a car that fulfils a number of diverse needs.”
The new model comes with a 10-year new car warranty and 10 years of capped-price servicing. It will go on sale across Australia from mid-August.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES Plug-in Hybrid price
From $46,490 plus on-road costs
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Aspire Plug-in Hybrid price
From $49,990 plus on-road costs
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Exceed Plug-in Hybrid price
From $53,990 plus on-road costs
