TOKYO — The Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV builds on the automaker's i-MiEV electric vehicle, embracing the "Smart Grid" concept and offering an interior with glass that protects skin from UV-A radiation and an oxygen enricher to "reduce fatigue." The PX-MiEV and its companion i-MiEV Cargo will take center stage on the Mitsubishi stand during the upcoming 2009 Tokyo Auto Show.
For the record, Mitsubishi says the PX stands for "plug-in hybrid crossover," while MiEV stands for "Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle." The concept is fitted with a 1.6-liter DOHC gas engine and has front and rear wheels that are powered by two motors.
The Japanese automaker positions the four-passenger concept as a fighter in the war against global warming. "[It] subscribes to the 'Smart Grid' concept," Mitsubishi said in a statement. "[It] allows the owner to store electricity at night and then use that electricity via the normal charging connector to power home appliances during the daytime when domestic electricity consumption is highest. This allows the drive battery to be used as a power source in the event of a natural disaster."
The interior should be a real pleaser for hypochondriacs. Seat upholstery "deactivates allergens, breaks down VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and offensive odor molecules as well as killing bacteria," said Mitsubishi. It points out that the concept's glass "shuts out UV-A radiation to protect skin from darkening and aging; and a negative-ion aroma humidifier and oxygen enricher [improves] comfort and [reduces] fatigue."
Other high-tech touches include a Driving Safety Support System with an onboard receiver that picks up signals transmitted by Japan's roadside optical beacons. This system urges the driver to be careful when the sensors detect vehicles or pedestrians.
The concept also gets an electronically controlled suspension with three ride heights and a Driving Monitor System that detects drowsiness and "emits a distinctive aroma to alert him/her to the situation."
The i-MiEV Cargo gets a practical square rear end to better use cabin space.
Inside Line says: Electric vehicles — with all of their futuristic gadgetry — will be the rage at the 2009 Tokyo Auto Show, as evidenced by Mitsubishi and other automakers. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
Add A Comment »
loyal2mitsu67 says:
07:03 AM, 10/21/2010
Good looking car. Hopefully they will bring this design to the marketplace in the current Outlander lineup. Cutting edge design. Sharp interior. The Outlander does need a facelift in addition to the new grille. This would really put Mitsubishi on the map.
firstclass says:
09:56 PM, 12/05/2009
Is this grill going to be seen on future Mitsubishis? Because that evo grill that they are sticking on all their cars is getting repetitive and doesn't do the SUVs any justice.
jazzor says:
09:54 AM, 10/01/2009
How many more decades until we get anything new(er) from Mitsubishi? How about bringing that iMiev thing already.... Gosh!