Mitsubishi GR-HEV concept previews Triton hybrid

The Mitsubishi GR-HEV gives us our first hint at the Japanese manufacturer’s next-generation Triton due in 2014, teasing elements of the new one-tonne ute’s design and revealing the first details of its pioneering hybrid powertrain.

Following the launch of the pure-electric Mitsubishi i-MiEV city car and the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV plug-in SUV, Mitsubishi says “the next logical step” in its EV expansion is to adapt its electric propulsion technology to a tougher, sportier model designed for both mature and emerging markets.

Embracing the brand’s ‘dual design’ philosophy, the GR-HEV Triton concept teams a clean diesel engine and multiple (likely two) electric motors with full-time four-wheel drive and Mitsubishi’s Super All Wheel Control vehicle dynamics control system.

Mitsubishi is targeting average CO₂ emissions of less than 149 grams per kilometre for its hybrid ute, roughly translating to a combined cycle fuel consumption of 5.6 litres per 100km.

Joining the Triton concept at Geneva will be the Mitsubishi CA-MiEV, a technology showcase previewing a range of technologies under development for the car maker’s second-gen EVs.

Employing a next-generation electric system with high-density batteries and lightweight components, the CA-MiEV’s targeted 300km range is double that of the pint-sized i-MiEV, which Mitsubishi says makes its better suited to daily suburban and country life.

Other innovative features of the CA-MiEV include magnetic resonance wireless charging and smartphone-activated functions.

The Mitsubishi GR-HEV and CA-MiEV will make their world premieres in Geneva on March 5.