The Appeal of the New Outlander PHEV: How Design and Unrivaled Functionality Captivate New-Era Leaders and Enrich Daily Life
NEWSBOARD / CAR
November 30, 2021

The Appeal of the New Outlander PHEV: How Design and Unrivaled Functionality Captivate New-Era Leaders and Enrich Daily Life

The "new Outlander PHEV," which underwent a full model change and debuted in October 2021, is a flagship model that embodies Mitsubishi Motors' cutting-edge technology, leveraging the strengths of the alliance. To showcase the appeal of this new vehicle, three individuals—ocean athlete Takuji Araki, architect and designer Koichiro Oniki, and food director Miho Kawakami—were appointed as New Normal Leaders for its launch.

Unparalleled functionality enriches daily life. Hear what these three leaders have to say about its appeal.

What were the charms of the "new Outlander PHEV" that these three individuals experienced and felt firsthand?

As an ocean athlete, Araki often faces long hours of driving and extensive travel for expeditions and training. Consequently, he frequently felt burdened by driving fatigue and the cost of gasoline for transportation.

He highlighted the "new Outlander PHEV's" appeal in its ability to save on gasoline, a significant household expense, and its capacity to supply power for up to 12 days* during prolonged blackouts caused by massive typhoons, which are common in Okinawa where he lives, thus protecting his livelihood.
*V2H equipment is required for connection to a home.

Furthermore, he noted that the innovative pedal operation mode, which applies the brakes the moment the accelerator is released and disengages them when acceleration is desired, reduces fatigue. He also commented on the ride comfort and ease of use, mentioning the spacious interior and the lack of stress at his fingertips. The new vehicle seemed to be a perfect fit for Araki's lifestyle.

Koichiro Oniki, an architect and designer known for his work on projects such as HERMES Gion and STUDIOUS Omotesando, was drawn to the "new Outlander PHEV's" design.

He was particularly impressed by the horizontal lines on the sides, which create a sense of unity by connecting the front and rear designs. The lines extend into the rear and interior, contributing to a cohesive design. He also found the balance between the powerful, large tires and the body to be a compelling expression of the vehicle's robustness.

He also pointed out aspects that resonated with his own work, such as the distinctive stitching on the seats, which evokes a sense of craftsmanship, and the ease with which a smartphone can be linked to the car. The ability to control the color temperature and intensity of the lighting within the cabin also contributes to a comfortable environment.

He further spoke of the potential offered by the new vehicle, specifically its power supply function. Beyond providing electricity during disasters, he envisioned enjoying the freedom of building a secluded cabin in a remote, off-grid location and staying there for several days.

 

Food director Miho Kawakami, who leads a dual life commuting between the city and the suburbs, also cited the vehicle's ability to supply electricity as a key attraction, given the frequent power outages in her residential area.

Having recently had a child, Kawakami has become more conscious of making sustainable choices. Her concern for the "peace of mind" and the "environment" that protect her family in their natural surroundings led her to feel that the power supply capability offers reassurance in a living environment prone to blackouts.

She also mentioned that being able to use a refrigerator is a great convenience, especially since she recently started camping. Instead of bringing heavy cooler boxes, she can enjoy chilled drinks and keep meat and seafood fresh, alleviating hygiene concerns. Additionally, the availability of lighting at night means her children are not scared, and meals can be enjoyed in a more festive atmosphere.
She also expressed her delight in the smooth ride, which is beneficial for her children who tend to get carsick on winding mountain roads.

The "Outlander PHEV," launched in 2013 as the world's first PHEV SUV with the concept of "EV for daily use, Hybrid for long trips," has since been sold in over 60 countries, achieving cumulative sales of 290,000 units*. It boasts the highest sales volume in the PHEV category worldwide*2.

The "new Outlander PHEV" enhances both the appeal of an electric vehicle, with its powerful yet smooth acceleration and precise control for a safe and secure drive, and the capabilities of a PHEV.

 

The new design concept is "BOLD STRIDE." Based on the SUV design that powerfully expresses the functional beauty cultivated over time, it presents a commanding presence, strength, and reliability befitting the new era.

Additionally, it is equipped with "MI-PILOT," an advanced driver-assistance system designed to reduce the driver's burden.
This system supports driving by maintaining a set distance from the vehicle ahead and keeping the car centered in its lane. With its Navi-Link function, it can automatically adjust the set speed by reading traffic signs or use navigation map data to automatically adjust speed for curves and junctions on expressways.
It can automatically restart within approximately 30 seconds after stopping in traffic jams, reducing the need for tedious operational adjustments while driving.

Furthermore, all PHEV components have been renewed, extending the EV cruising range. The "new Outlander PHEV" has been enhanced for the modern era, offering improved driving performance, faster charging, and power supply capabilities, making it more comfortable, secure, and safe.

The "new Outlander PHEV," which has undergone a full model change with the concept of "Majestic Dignity," is poised to captivate the world with its powerful yet smooth driving and commanding presence.

 
Inquiries

Mitsubishi Motors
https://www.mitsubishi-motors.co.jp/lineup/outlander_phev/