Featuring Mitsubishi's all-new plug-in hybrid system, the Concept PX-MiEV showcases the future of
electric-powered, eco-friendly vehicles. Unlike hybrid systems that mainly rely on a gas engine for power, the Concept PX-MiEV utilizes electricity for its main source of motive power—and intelligently manages the horsepower (and generating power) of a 1.6L DOHC MIVEC gasoline engine as needed.

At the heart of the Concept PX-MiEV there are three power plants, one permanent magnet synchronous electric motor in the front, another in back, and the highly efficient MIVEC gasoline engine which can power the front wheels and also serve as a generator. Controlled and optimized by the remarkable MiEV Operating System, these engines, motors and batteries work together to maximize efficiency and deliver impressive range. Here's how it works:

At slow and moderate speeds (for example, a morning commute in the city), the Mitsubishi Plug-in Hybrid System operates in all-electric EV Mode. Here the Concept PX-MiEV becomes a front-wheel-drive vehicle, powered by its battery pack and the front electric motor. In short, it offers fun-to-drive power with zero emissions. Furthermore, the Concept PX-MiEV monitors road conditions and adapts to them. So if it's raining, or if the road is slick with snow, electric power is automatically provided to the rear motor, effectively turning the car into an electric four-wheel-drive vehicle.

When the battery power gets low, the Concept PX-MiEV switches to Series Hybrid Mode which engages the gas engine to generate electricity. Regenerative breaks also create power by converting the kinetic energy of deceleration into electricity, which is then stored in the battery.

Driving at higher speeds, Parallel Hybrid Mode adds the power of the gasoline engine to the front electric motor. When overtaking or driving on slick, rainy roads, the rear motor automatically engages for increased acceleration or sure-footed, four-wheel-drive performance, as necessary.

Whether its driving or charging, the Concept PX-MiEV is equally innovative. A unique three-way charging system connects to 110V (household outlets), 220V and industrial quick chargers. Once charged, a Concept PX-MiEV is a convenient power source. An auxiliary power socket lets owners supply electricity from the vehicle to any device, such as camping products or household appliances. In an emergency, this car is essentially a power source on wheels.

The Concept PX-MiEV truly is the bold next generation in electric vehicles.