Outlander PHEV: Compatibility Issues?

mein-auto-blog has been driving a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV for more than a year as a long-term test car and we look forward to a colorful mix of readers' letters (e-mails) every day. Also in the last week were some exciting e-mails and we always try to summarize the often recurring topics in an article.

Unfortunately, what we as the editorial team keep seeing is a lack of communication between the dealership and the customer. It seems that there is still some catching up to do here. This is not surprising, because the Outlander PHEV has gone into series production as the “first plug-in hybrid SUV” and customers are often enthusiastic about the low fuel consumption, the high level of comfort, the all-wheel drive and the space - but a PHEV requires a different use. And this is where the “classic sales pitch”, the determination of needs between the car buyer and the seller, is extremely important. In addition, many customers are not yet used to handling the charging stations and there is also the “confusion” caused by the state about the charging plug standards. So there is still a lot to explain. This week we want to go back to the topic "Load" and "Charging plug”Received:

• Which charging plug, when is needed?

• Which charging cable do you need?

Since 4.January we have a new plug in Outlander, which inspires us. However, docking to a (public) charging station is impossible thanks to the lack of compatibility! Suitable cables or adapters are not in the vehicle! I find this at the purchase price of more than 50.000, € to say the least amazing! Which connections do we need?

Sender: Known to the editor.

Dear PHEV customer,

first of all: congratulations. You have chosen an exciting car. As for the “non-existent” compatibility, we can provide clarification. The vehicle should actually come with a charging cable with a Schuko (230V) plug. If not, your salesperson will surely be of assistance. If there are any complications here, please send us an email again. Furthermore is a Type1 (Mode3) on Typ2 charging cable very useful. This will allow you to load the Outlander PHEV to 99% of all charging posts with a Type2 jack. Type2 is often referred to as a Mennekes connector. For example, you can obtain a suitable cable from your Mitsubishi dealer (RRP 356 €) or here (230 €)

The problem is fundamentally: The Outlander PHEV has two charging sockets, one type 1, one mode 3 and one the ChaDeMo fast charger for direct current. ChaDeMo fast chargers are unfortunately still in the absolute minority in Germany. Here the German automotive industry has prevailed and the CCS Combo 2 plug prevailed. Gradually the number of “non-discriminatory” charging stations is increasing, where ChaDeMo, CCS and Type 2 will be offered - but unfortunately this is really still the minority.

At home probably reaches the normal Schuko charging cable. Especially when the vehicle is charging overnight, this is quite sufficient. For on the way, you should put a Type1 (Mode 3) on Type2 cable in the trunk. ChaDeMo columns have their own cable. Such fast loaders can now be found frequently at ALDI-Süd and at more and more IKEA branches. An overview offers you also this website: chargemap.com

You want to load always and everywhere?

If you want to be completely independent of plugs and connectors, we recommend one mobile charging box from “car-go-electric.de”. We are testing this box and the compatibility of this box knows no bounds. From industrial plugs (CEE) and even camping sockets you can make charging stations for your PHEV at any time! At car-go-electric.de you will be advised on the options!