Mitsubishi Motors has awarded a new hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) business to Aisin, a Japanese component manufacturer. Aisin will produce and sell its integrated hybrid units, consisting of a drive motor and gearbox, directly to Mitsubishi Motors. The hybrid unit will be used in the “XForce” hybrid EV model, a crossover SUV unveiled in Thailand. This is Aisin’s first series-parallel model, developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi Motors, and features a dog clutch separation mechanism that optimizes switching between motor and engine driving. This technology enables high fuel efficiency and driving performance without compromising vehicle mounting.
The production of this hybrid unit will take place at Aisin Powertrain (Thailand) Co, marking Aisin’s first electric unit production in the ASEAN region. This is part of Aisin’s strategic plan to develop a global production system for electrification. The partnership with Mitsubishi Motors demonstrates Aisin’s commitment to expanding its presence in the global electric vehicle market. The collaboration also highlights the growing presence of electric vehicles in the region, with Thailand being a key market for electric vehicles in Southeast Asia.