MITSUBISHI Concept GC-PHEV

Loving Our Planet Enjoying Our Planet.

New-generation Full-size SUV Conquers all Roads in Safety, in Comfort

The MITSUBISHI Concept GC-PHEV is a next-generation full-time 4WD full-size SUV using a FR-layout PHEV  powertrain. The model name derives from Grand Cruiser and, as befits the name, the PHEV system delivers  trail-blazing environmental and gutsy motive performance while MMC’s S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) electronically-controlled 4WD-based integrated vehicle dynamics control system delivers outstanding all-terrain performance, handling and vehicle stability. Concept GC-PHEV also adopts a number of new initiatives including a novel interface system and an AR^*9 windshield. This concept is a vision for a car which can powerfully carry its passengers in reassuring safety while giving much respect for the environment.

*9:　Augmented Reality: A live, direct or indirect, view of a physical, real-world environment whose elements are augmented (or supplemented) by computer-generated sensory input such as sound, video, graphics or GPS data.

Full-feature All-round SUV Power & Vitality

Wrapped in Forward-thinking & Solid Comfort Design

MITSUBISHI Concept GC-PHEV’s design is distinguished primarily by the fusion of the stately, imposing body with an advanced cross-frame cabin, expressing both a reassuring sense of safety and a welcoming and comfortable openness to the interior.

The exterior styling fuses a muscular and powerful surface composition with lively and sharp lines to realize a sculpted form which appears to have been carved out of a single block. With the daytime running lamps positioned high up for maximum vehicle visibility and the headlamps located within the bumper protector, the front fascia fully forcefully projects the air of a mainstream all-round SUV. Variable louvers in the grille enhancing engine cooling. The body design also utilizes a combination of aerodynamic-enhancing features throughout.

Melding seamlessly into the wide bumper, the large tailgate marries an appealingly fresh appearance with good functionality while rearward visibility is enhanced with the use of sub-windows.

With no B-pillar the doors give easy access to the spacious interior. Located in the upper dashboard is a

Multi-wide Interface which visually flows into the door trim, while Concept GC-PHEV uses an AR Windshield. A first for MMC with the Concept GC-PHEV is the touch-screen operated Tactical Table^*10 located in the center of the cabin. In designing the interior MMC has sought a new direction which allows all occupants to share the advanced and distinctive information space.

*10:　Large monitor display allows occupants to gather information and create an original map or trip plan as well as to share all kinds of information with other occupants.

New PHEV System With FR-layout

Maximizes Engine & Motor Performance

Mitsubishi Concept GC-PHEV uses a PHEV system to provide the level of powerful, solid and satisfying driving experience customers seek in a full-feature all-round SUV. The PHEV powertrain comprises a 3.0-liter V6 supercharged MIVEC engine, clutch, 8-speed automatic transmission, high-output electric motor and a high-capacity battery installed under the rear luggage space floor. The PHEV system automatically switches operation between pure EV drive and hybrid drive depending on driving conditions, remaining battery charge and other factors. A feature of MMC’s new PHEV system is that in EV mode the transmission allows engine output efficiency to be maximized at all vehicle speeds. In hybrid drive mode, the 8-speed automatic transmission extracts power from the engine while the high-output motor kicks in to provide additional power as and when required. Delivering punchy motive performance with comfortable reserves of power, the PHEV system makes for a solid and satisfying driving experience and helps Concept GC-PHEV take poor road surfaces or pulling a caravan or trailer easily in its stride. It also delivers the excellent response and smooth acceleration and luxury-car levels of quietness that are inherent to the PHEV system to elevate driving pleasure levels to new heights.

Another attractive feature of the PHEV system is that its high-capacity battery can be used as an external power source. The 100V AC on-board socket can output up to 1500 watts of electrical energy, ideal for powering equipment when camping or enjoying other outdoor pursuits as well as providing an emergency power source for domestic appliances. The system can supply the equivalent of a day’s power consumption in an average household from the battery alone and up to a maximum of up to 13 days when the engine is used to fill the battery.

S-AWC Integrated Vehicle Dynamics Control System

Effects Precise Management of Torque and Braking at Each Wheel

MMC’s advanced S-AWC integrated vehicle dynamics control system, which works mainly by controlling torque distribution to and braking effort at each wheel, has been optimized for Concept GC-PHEV to provide handling that accurately reflects driver intent together with rock-steady vehicle stability. S-AWC is based on a full-time 4WD system with electronically-controlled front and center limited slip differentials (LSD). For Concept GC-PHEV, the addition of an E-AYC (Electric-Active Yaw Control) unit, which uses torque from the electric motor to precisely control torque distribution to each rear wheel, provides outstanding vehicle stability. According to road surface conditions and the selected traction mode, S-AWC works in cooperation with the PHEV system to assist the driver in following their chosen line through corners as well as realizing awesome all-terrain performance. Overall, S-AWC stretches the boundaries of safe, stress-free and comfortable motoring.

MMC’s Own Connected Car Technology

Keeping Occupants Safe & Happy

MITSUBISHI Concept GC-PHEV is equipped with the advanced “connected car” technology which utilizes next-generation information systems. This technology is set to bring significant changes to the time we spend in our cars. Linked to a vehicle information network, the connected car system uploads vehicle status information on a real-time basis and links it with traffic in the vicinity, traffic signal and other information to advise the driver on how to drive their car more economically. The system also provides a Failure and Malfunction Early-detection System, which urges the driver to seek repairs or service, as well as an Accident Damage Prediction Reporting function including link to the Japanese Help Net and other emergency and safety services. Connected car technology helps driver and occupants enjoy reassuring safety, convenience and comfort in their motoring life. Looking at further possibilities for connected car technology, Concept GC-PHEV is fitted with some novel interface systems. These include the AR Windshield, which utilizes augmented reality technology, as well as the Tactical Table large touch-operated display located in the center of the vehicle.

AR Windshield

Keeps Driver’s Eyes on the Road

The AR Windshield employs augmented reality technology to display information necessary to the driver on the windshield while the vehicle is on the move. By projecting information into their forward field of view, the AR Windshield allows the driver to ascertain their vehicle status without taking their eyes from the road. Information projected onto the windshield includes: Satnav-linked Route Guidance; Active safety system-linked Distance to Vehicle in Front; and Lane Departure Warning. The AR Windshield also presents Caution Tracking information which uses vehicle-to-vehicle and pedestrian-to-vehicle communications to give the driver guidance on and display alerts about vehicles or pedestrians approaching from blind spots at junctions. The AR Windshield supports the driver in making split-second decisions on the operation of their vehicle and makes for safer driving.

Tactical Table Acquires Ample Information

To Gather, Create & Share New Kinds of Fun

Located in the center of the cabin, the touch-screen Tactical Table is a new kind of tool that uses connected car technology to push the boundaries of occupant fun and pleasure in unknown ways. No one-way street ‒ where information is only received ‒ the Tactical Table generates a new style of motoring life where occupants can use their smart phones to “Gather” information on their trip, “Create” an original map or trip plan as well as “Share” that information with others using onboard communicators. Allowing an unprecedented and innovative way to exchange information, the Tactical Table extends the boundaries of motoring pleasure.

e-Assist Next-Generation Active Safety Technology

Provides All-directional Protection

Concept GC-PHEV uses MMC’s e-Assist^*11 active safety system in cooperation with connected car technology to realize an enhanced level of vehicle and occupant protection through forward, rear blind-spot assistance.

Concept GC-PHEV is fitted with Cooperative Adaptive Cruise Control (CACC) with Lane Keep Assist which provides forward visual assistance on expressways and main roads by sharing acceleration/deceleration information on the vehicle in front using vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communications to realize more accurate distance-to-vehicle-in-front control, while also encouraging more economical operation of the vehicle and helping to relieve traffic congestion. The Lane Keep Assist function provides appropriate handling support to prevent the driver from drifting out of their lane due to fatigue or inattention. The system includes a Traffic Sign Recognition System which uses an on-board camera to recognize and inform the driver about road signs, and also activates the engine speed limiter in an emergency. The Adaptive Headlamps system uses the on-board camera to detect the position of oncoming vehicles or pedestrians while the headlamps are on high beam and blank off that area of illumination to prevent dazzling.

*11:　“e-Assist” name used in Japan only

For all-directional driver assistance, e-Assist employs eight infrared cameras ‒ two at the top of the windshield, one in each A pillar, one behind each rear door window, and one on either side at the top of the tailgate ‒ to scan the periphery of the vehicle. High definition image processing enables the system to instantly and accurately detect any risk factors close to the vehicle. The system also uses a Night Eye Multi-around Monitor to rapidly alert and warn the driver of the approach of any obstacles or other vehicles.

The Mitsubishi e-Assist active safety system also incorporates many other functions including the following:

Pedestrian Collision Mitigating Auto-braking: This radar- and camera-based system detects pedestrians ahead of the vehicle at night and in other situations where they are difficult to spot and alerts the driver to their presence. The system will also automatically apply the brakes to avoid a collision or to mitigate injury.

Rearward Blind Spot Vehicle Warning: This system helps avert collisions by alerting the driver to the presence of vehicles approaching from behind. This system also functions to detect and warn the driver of the presence of vehicles or other objects behind the driver’s own vehicle while backing in, such as when parking or leaving their garage.

Driving Safety Support System (DSSS): Concept GC-PHEV is also equipped for the DSSS promoted by the Japanese National Police Agency. This enhances safety by utilizing communications with vehicles and road infrastructure to warn the driver of traffic signals ahead as well as the approach of pedestrians, vehicles and cyclists at junctions and urge the driver to slow down.

Unintentional Vehicle Move Off Control: When a front-mounted camera spots any objects immediately in front of the vehicle and sensors detect the mistaken use of the accelerator instead of the brake pedal, the system operates to limit engine power and restrain forward movement of the car. The system also urges the driver to be more careful.

Driver Monitor: Uses an infrared camera installed in front of the driver as well as sensors in the steering system and in the driver seat to monitor eye blinking and changes in posture to assess the driver’s level of alertness. If the system detects abnormalities in driving behavior, such as when the car starts to wander on the road, it instantly alerts the driver and urges taking a rest. It also alerts the driver when it determines their concentration has dropped or when they glance away from the road in front.

MITSUBISHI Concept GC-PHEV Specifications (Targets)

SOURCE: MITSUBISHI