Outlander PHEV retains firm grip on crown as New Zealand's most popular plug-in hybrid SUV, with sales topping 1,000 mark in November
1,000th owner describes “win-win” situation
The milestone sales figure comes less than four months since Mitsubishi Motors NZ (MMNZ) released its most luxurious and affordable PHEV model yet. At $55,990 (plus On-Road Costs), the new Outlander PHEV VRX retails for $8,000 less than the previous top-of-the-range model, in a move to bring PHEV pricing in line with petrol and diesel SUV competitors.
“By bringing the cost of the new PHEV VRX in line with a number of petrol and diesel equivalents on the market, we have been able to offer real choice to Kiwi motorists looking to join the EV revolution,” said Reece Congdon, MMNZ Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs. “We didn’t want price to be a barrier and we are seeing increased interest as a result.”
Price wasn’t a barrier for Wellington-based business owner Simon Werry, who ditched his Toyota Highlander in November to became New Zealand’s 1,000th Outlander PHEV owner.
“When I saw the new PHEV being advertised at such a great price, it was a done deal,” said Simon, Managing Director of Light House Cinemas. “It feels powerful, drives well and tows a trailer no problem.”
But the purchase wasn’t just about getting a good deal.
“I see it as a win-win,” said Simon. “I’m reducing my environmental impact and supporting a company that’s investing in more sustainable technology.”
1,000th PHEV owner a shining example
Simon, whose first-ever car was a Mitsubishi, had been looking at EV options for some time and wanted a vehicle with enough room to comfortably fit a family of five. Outlander PHEV fit the bill, and Simon hopes the move to more environmentally friendly driving is lighting the way for his young family.
“My kids love it; my 13-year-old son is the designated ‘plugger-in’,” said Simon. “He certainly hasn’t ever been interested in filling up at the gas station!”
Not that the family has spent much time there recently.
“I’m still on my first tank of gas [with the PHEV] and I’ve had it for almost a month,” said Simon. “I drive between home in the Hutt and our three cinemas in Petone, Pauatahanui and Wellington. The only time I’ve needed to use petrol was when I forgot to charge the battery!”
Class leader that keeps getting better
“Kiwis have a longstanding affection for the Outlander badge; the PHEV model was the first plug-in hybrid SUV in New Zealand and, ever since its launch in 2014, it has remained the most popular vehicle in its class,” said Congdon.
“EV infrastructure has come a long way since we originally launched Outlander PHEV. By the same stroke, the vehicle itself has undergone continued development to improve its EV range and performance. We are confident the next 1,000 milestone will arrive much quicker than the first.”
Outlander PHEV quick facts
More than 150,000 sold globally.
In 2015, Outlander PHEV became the first-ever plug-in hybrid in NZ to be included in the ‘All of Government’ purchasing catalogue.
Notable fleet customers include Air New Zealand, TVNZ, NZ Lotteries Commission, Contact Energy, Fulton Hogan, Genesis Energy, Hertz New Zealand, Mercury Energy, NZ Steel Ltd, Powerco Ltd, Transpower New Zealand.
Drivetrain features two electric motors and one 2.0L petrol engine.
EV priority mode.
EV range of 54km.
Combined range of over 600km.
Combined fuel consumption of 1.7L/100 km.
Charge from a standard household plug in 6.5 hours.
Using a residential off-peak electricity rate means you can charge your EV for the equivalent of 30c a litre1
DC fast charge in approximately 20 mins (to 80%).
Super All Wheel Control.
Regenerative braking.
5-star safety including Forward Collision Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, Misacceleration Mitigation System (VRX) and Blind Sport Warning (VRX)
1-tonne towing capacity.
Notes
1 Source EECA. Estimate based on a residential off-peak charge rate and will vary.
Caption:
Managing Director of Light House Cinemas Simon Werry with his new Outlander PHEV in front of Light House Cinema Petone. Simon is the 1000th Outlander PHEV customer in New Zealand.