By Mike Hanlon
Mitsubishi’s distinctive GR-HEV diesel-hybrid pick-up concept
Mitsubishi’s Concept GR-HEV combination a sedan interior and comfort levels with a diesel-hybrid pickup truck with an exterior quite unlike anything we’ve previously seen. The hybrid drivetrain is billed as a next generation drive system that combines the company’s Super Select 4WD (SS4) and S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) systems, a 2.5L diesel engine and an electric motor of unspecified power to achieve CO2 emissions of 149 g/km
The SS4 drive mode system allows the driver to select four drive modes (2H, 4H, 4HL, 4LL) so drivers can choose the appropriate ratio range for their purposes – from a longer set of ratios for fuel-efficient driving through three sets of ratios suitable for a range of terrains.
The GR-HEV is also fitted with an AC power supply system, effectively adding some very useful functiionality for those who might use it as a working vehicle, or for charging the batteries on boats, and other recreational toys.
There’s no doubt the styling of the vehicle will set it apart from all others in the class and it will be interesting to see how the public reacts to the vehicle – it is quite possible that the radical styling of the GR-HEV will create a cult following, and perhaps even much more than that.
If the reaction is strongly positive, you may be looking at the next Triton, or perhaps even a new and very practical niche vehicle.