It’s hard to imagine a bygone era when electric and combustion cars were at the same starting point, but they did. The first zero-emission vehicle in history dates back to 1889, presented during the World’s Fair in Paris. The mass production of heat engines, added to the lower costs compared to batteries of the time, made it easy to opt for fossil fuels at that time. We know the rest of the story, until today. The climate emergency and the ecological awareness of the population has put the old continent on alert, which has emerged as the driver of the energy transition. The goal is clear: electrify the car fleet in the near future. The way to achieve this has been evolving, with alternatives such as self-recharging hybrids, LPG or CNG, hydrogen and, finally, plug-in hybrids. This technology adds followers month by month, with an annual growth in Spain of 100.20% (September) compared to the same period of the previous year.
Plug-in hybrids or PHEVs such as the new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV are no longer unknown in the market, conquering 5.5% of the market share with 3,952 units registered this year. That is, more plug-in hybrids are sold than 100% electric models in our country and it is the alternative with the most growth in recent months. The reason is that it is an easy technology, which combines the best of both worlds without giving up either of them. You can take advantage of its battery to circulate without emitting but you will not be thrown if it ends up running out, as they begin to work like a conventional self-recharging hybrid. In addition, they do not require as much time to charge, and this is done both with a conventional plug in your home or office, as in a public installation.
Unlike a conventional self-recharging hybrid, which does not require plugs, these PHEVs feature a higher capacity battery. This choice offers higher zero emission ranges, such as the 55 kilometers of the new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV. According to the Ministry for the Ecological Transition, a Spaniard travels 41.6 kilometers on average, so that we would comply with our daily routes without problem at a clearly advantageous price if we load at night or at work.
Far from entering the segment as an insider, this refined and dynamic design SUV draws directly from the experience accumulated by the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. After eight years in the market, this PHEV system is the most tested and sold in the world, being a pioneer in the implementation of this technology in the SUV segment.
There have been six years of empirical tests that certify the reliability of Mitsubishi, a brand with a long history in the off-road world, and the off-road capabilities of its models. Pillars of success on which the development and launch of this Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV have been the backbone, improved not only mechanically but also in terms of aesthetics, equipment and connectivity.
These are interesting times for brand designers, who can express their creativity thanks to multimodal platforms with a wide range of possibilities. An example of this is the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV, larger than the previous generation, and completely renovated. The use of chrome edges and decorations emphasize its premium and dynamic character, confirmed by the incorporation of LED modules in the daytime running lights.
This light signature integrates seamlessly into the new “honeycomb” grille, which feels wider than ever as it extends into the bumper. The lower trim is reminiscent of sporty designs, in the same way that the position of the headlights and fog can appear to be side air intakes.
A profile of which we highlight the redesign of the alloy wheels and the reinterpretation of the waistband, which starts from the Plug-In Hybrid EV badge, from the front door to the rear light clusters. This visual play elongates the bodywork creating an effect of movement and coupe-like silhouette, accentuated by the C-pillar and sloping rear window. The usual “Y” -shaped configuration is maintained for the taillights, nestled under a “racing” air spoiler that perfectly matches the diffuser in the lower bumper.
The incorporation of the PHEV system means new functionalities for the infotainment system, managed through the 8-inch touch screen. In it we can discover the instantaneous operation of its blocks, a 98 hp gasoline that works together with two 82 hp electric motors for the front axle and 95 hp for the rear wheels. The combined power is 188 hp, with 55 kilometers of electric autonomy, a smooth, easy driving mode and without CO2 emissions. We can also observe the charging process, which barely requires 25 minutes to reach 80% of the battery (fast charge).
The so-called S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) takes the reins of the electric motors, so that they work independently sending torque to the train (front or rear) that needs it most depending on the conditions. The driver will be able to decide between Normal, Eco, Snow, Gravel and Tarmac driving modes, achieving a behavior on the track that no other rival in the segment can offer. All-wheel drive is safer when driving, but it also allows fun and adventure to those who want it, benefiting in turn from the high performance of a PHEV system.
