At last week’s Geneva Auto Show, Mitsubishi announced that it will produce a PHEV version of its popular Outlander, to be launched in 2013.

“During fiscal 2012, Mitsubishi Motors will be adding to its lineup an electric vehicle-based Outlander model, which will use a plug-in hybrid system derived from MMC’s already existing EV technology,” said a company spokesman.

The new hybrid will be an all-wheel-drive vehicle, with separate electric motors for the front and rear wheels. The twin motor system, which is based on technology developed for the Lancer Evolution, does away with the propeller shaft, hydraulic system and clutch plate used to connect the front and rear axles in conventional 4WD systems.

The Outlander PHEV will offer drivers a choice of four power modes, and is expected to have an all-electric-range of 31 miles and a total range of around 500 miles.

Image: Mitsubushi