Mitsubishi is set to unveil a new proprietary plug-in hybrid system in the Concept PX MiEV (pictured) at this month’s 2009 Tokyo Motor Show. The new system combines differential electric motors with Mitsubishi’s Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system--already found in the Evo--and electronically controlled active yaw control. The front and rear wheels are powered by two permanent magnet synchronous motors, while a compact four-cylinder MIVEC engine is also used to power the front wheels or act as a generator.
According to latest reports, a similar system could be used in the next-generation Lancer Evolution XI (Evo XI for short). The first production models equipped with the advanced plug-in hybrid system is due in 2013 and company insiders say the technology could be directed at the new Evo eventually.
However, due to financial constraints, development on the next-generation Evo has been stalled so any launch of a plug-in hybrid Evo is still years away.
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