Mitsubishi Electric Vehicles: The Future of Automotive Electrical Systems

Mitsubishi Electric Vehicles: The Future of Automotive Electrical Systems

Introduction: Mitsubishi's Electric Vehicle Evolution in Los Angeles

Mitsubishi has established itself as a pioneer in the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle market, with the Outlander PHEV becoming one of the most popular choices for Los Angeles drivers seeking to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining the flexibility of a gasoline engine. As electric vehicle adoption accelerates across California, understanding the charging requirements and installation options for Mitsubishi electric vehicles has become essential for current and prospective owners. Shaffer Construction, Inc. has been at the forefront of EV charger installation in Los Angeles, helping Mitsubishi owners optimize their home and commercial charging infrastructure to maximize the benefits of their electrified vehicles.

The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV continues to be a strong contender in the plug-in hybrid market, offering 38 miles of all-electric range on a full charge, making it ideal for the typical Los Angeles daily commute. With record-breaking sales in 2025 and the fourth consecutive Green Car Journal Family Green Car of the Year award, the Outlander PHEV demonstrates that Mitsubishi's commitment to electrification resonates with California drivers. Whether you're a current Mitsubishi PHEV owner looking to upgrade your charging setup or a prospective buyer researching charging requirements, this comprehensive guide will help you understand everything you need to know about charging infrastructure for Mitsubishi electric vehicles in Los Angeles.

Understanding Mitsubishi's Electric Vehicle Lineup in 2025

Mitsubishi's electric vehicle strategy focuses on practical plug-in hybrid technology that addresses range anxiety while delivering zero-emission driving for most daily trips. The flagship 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV features a 20 kWh battery pack that provides 38 miles of EPA-estimated electric-only range. This makes it perfectly suited for Los Angeles commuters, as the average daily driving distance in the metro area is typically under 35 miles. The vehicle seamlessly transitions to hybrid operation when the battery is depleted, offering a combined range of 420 miles and eliminating range anxiety entirely.

What sets the Outlander PHEV apart is its versatility in charging options. The vehicle supports Level 1 charging using a standard 120-volt household outlet, Level 2 charging with a 240-volt home or public charging station, and even CHAdeMO DC fast charging for rapid charging on longer trips. According to EvoCharge specifications, the Outlander PHEV can charge at a rate of 3.7 kilowatts on a 240-volt Level 2 charger, completing a full charge in approximately 6.5 hours. This flexibility makes the vehicle adaptable to various charging scenarios, from overnight home charging to workplace charging and public fast charging stations.

Looking ahead, Mitsubishi is expanding its electric vehicle lineup with exciting new models. The new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross electric crossover is launching in Europe with an impressive 370 miles of range and 150 kW DC fast charging capability. For the U.S. market, Mitsubishi has announced a fully electric model based on the Nissan Leaf platform, expected to arrive by summer 2026 with the modern NACS charging standard. These developments signal Mitsubishi's long-term commitment to electrification, making now an excellent time for Los Angeles property owners to invest in charging infrastructure that will serve both current and future Mitsubishi electric vehicles. Shaffer Construction helps clients plan for this future by installing charging systems that can accommodate various charging standards and power levels.

Level 1 vs Level 2 Charging: What Mitsubishi PHEV Owners Need to Know

Understanding the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 charging is crucial for Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV owners to maximize their electric driving range and minimize fuel costs. Level 1 charging uses a standard 120-volt household outlet and the portable charging cable that comes included with every Outlander PHEV. This charging method delivers approximately 12 amps and takes about 16 hours to fully charge the 20 kWh battery from empty. While this may seem slow, it's actually perfectly adequate for many Los Angeles drivers who park their vehicle overnight and drive less than 38 miles per day. The key advantage of Level 1 charging is that it requires no additional installation costs, making it the most economical option for homeowners with access to a dedicated outlet near their parking space.

However, Level 2 charging offers significant advantages that make it the preferred choice for most Mitsubishi PHEV owners in Los Angeles. A Level 2 charging station operates at 240 volts, the same voltage used by electric dryers and ovens, and can fully charge the Outlander PHEV in approximately 6.5 hours. This faster charging time provides much greater flexibility, allowing owners to top up their battery during the day or recover a full charge in just one evening even if they arrive home with a depleted battery. According to ChargePoint's charging guide, upgrading from Level 1 to Level 2 can reduce charging time by up to 60 percent, making it easier to maximize electric-only driving and minimize gasoline consumption.

For Los Angeles homeowners considering which charging level to install, Shaffer Construction recommends evaluating your daily driving patterns and charging needs. If you consistently drive more than 38 miles per day or don't have a predictable overnight parking schedule, Level 2 charging provides the flexibility to quickly recharge between trips. Additionally, Level 2 charging is essential if you're planning to install charging infrastructure for multiple vehicles or anticipate purchasing a fully electric vehicle in the future. The electrical requirements for Level 2 charging include a dedicated 240-volt circuit with a breaker rated to at least 125 percent of the charger's amperage output. As discussed in our comprehensive guide to planning EV charger infrastructure in Los Angeles, understanding these electrical requirements upfront helps ensure a smooth installation process and optimal charging performance for your Mitsubishi PHEV.

Home Charging Installation for Mitsubishi Owners in Los Angeles

Installing a home charging station for your Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV involves several important considerations specific to Los Angeles electrical codes and utility requirements. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power has streamlined the home charging installation process through partnerships with the City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety, offering instant online permitting approval and expedited inspections for residential EV charger installations. This simplified process has made it easier than ever for Mitsubishi owners to install Level 2 charging at home, typically completing the entire process from application to final inspection in just a few weeks.

The first step in the home charging installation process is evaluating your electrical panel capacity. Most Level 2 EV chargers for the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV require a 40-amp circuit with a 50-amp breaker, which translates to approximately 9.6 kW of power delivery. However, the Outlander PHEV's onboard charger limits charging to 3.7 kW, meaning you can also use a lower-amperage circuit if that's more suitable for your electrical panel capacity. Shaffer Construction performs a thorough electrical assessment to determine whether your existing panel has sufficient capacity or whether an upgrade is needed. In older Los Angeles homes with 100-amp or 125-amp service panels, a panel upgrade may be necessary to safely accommodate the additional load of EV charging along with your home's other electrical needs.

Location planning is another critical aspect of home charging installation. For homeowners with attached garages, the charging station is typically installed on the garage wall near the parking space, with the electrical wiring running from the main panel to the charger location. For homes without garages or where parking is in a separate structure, the installation may require trenching to run conduit underground or mounting the charger on an exterior wall with appropriate weatherproofing. Shaffer Construction has extensive experience with all types of residential installations throughout Los Angeles, from single-family homes in the Hollywood Hills to multi-unit properties in downtown LA. We ensure that the charger placement provides convenient access to your Mitsubishi's charging port while complying with all local electrical codes and safety requirements. Our residential EV charger installation services include complete project management, from initial consultation and electrical load assessment through permitting, installation, and final inspection.

When selecting a Level 2 charging station for your Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, you'll find a wide range of options from manufacturers like ChargePoint, JuiceBox, Grizzl-E, and Emporia. While the Outlander PHEV uses the standard J1772 connector found on all Level 2 chargers, features can vary significantly between models. Some chargers offer WiFi connectivity and smartphone apps that allow you to monitor charging status, schedule charging during off-peak hours to save money on electricity rates, and track your energy consumption. Other important features to consider include cable length, which affects where you can park relative to the charger, and outdoor rating if the charger will be exposed to weather. Shaffer Construction helps clients select the right charging station for their specific needs and budget, ensuring compatibility with LADWP's rate structures and taking advantage of any available rebates or incentives for EV charging equipment.

Commercial Charging Solutions for Mitsubishi Fleet Operators

As more Los Angeles businesses adopt plug-in hybrid vehicles like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV for their fleet operations, workplace and commercial charging infrastructure has become increasingly important. Fleet operators are discovering that plug-in hybrids offer significant fuel cost savings when vehicles can charge during the workday, allowing them to operate primarily on electric power for short trips while maintaining the flexibility of the gasoline engine for longer routes. Installing commercial charging infrastructure requires different considerations than residential installations, including higher power requirements, multiple charging stations, load management systems, and compliance with California's building codes for commercial EV charging.

For businesses operating multiple Mitsubishi PHEVs or a mixed fleet of electric vehicles, Shaffer Construction designs and installs scalable charging solutions that can grow with your fleet. A typical commercial installation might include multiple Level 2 charging stations with smart load management to prevent overloading the building's electrical service. Modern commercial charging systems can dynamically distribute available power among multiple vehicles, ensuring efficient charging while staying within the building's electrical capacity limits. This is particularly important for Los Angeles businesses in older buildings where electrical service upgrades can be costly. As detailed in our article on preparing Los Angeles buildings for the EV charging boom, proper planning and load management strategies can help businesses avoid expensive electrical infrastructure upgrades while still providing adequate charging capacity for their fleet.

Commercial charging installations also need to consider user management and billing systems. Businesses may need to track which employees use which chargers, allocate charging costs to specific departments, or even provide public charging with payment processing. Many commercial charging systems include network connectivity and management software that provides detailed reporting on energy usage, charging sessions, and costs. For property managers and business owners, these features enable cost recovery and ensure fair allocation of charging resources. Shaffer Construction partners with leading commercial charging providers to deliver turnkey solutions that include not just the physical installation but also ongoing support and maintenance to keep your charging infrastructure operating reliably.

Multi-unit residential properties also represent an important segment of the commercial charging market in Los Angeles. California law now requires that multi-family buildings provide EV charging infrastructure when requested by residents, creating opportunities and challenges for property owners. Installing charging stations in apartment building parking structures or carports requires careful planning to ensure equitable access while managing the electrical load across the entire property. Shaffer Construction's expertise in commercial EV charger installation includes specialized solutions for multi-unit residential properties, including parking garage installations, individual metering for resident charging, and compliance with California's EV charging requirements for new construction and renovations. We work with property managers to develop phased installation plans that can start with a few charging stations and expand over time as resident demand increases.

Public Charging Infrastructure and CHAdeMO Fast Charging for Mitsubishi PHEVs

One unique feature of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is its CHAdeMO DC fast charging capability, which allows the vehicle to charge to 80 percent in approximately 38 minutes at compatible public charging stations. This is relatively rare for plug-in hybrid vehicles and provides Mitsubishi owners with additional flexibility when traveling longer distances or when they need a quick charge during the day. Los Angeles has a robust network of public charging stations, with over 8,000 public charging locations including 490 DC fast chargers throughout the metro area. While the CHAdeMO charging standard has been largely superseded by the CCS standard for newer electric vehicles, existing CHAdeMO infrastructure remains operational and accessible to Mitsubishi PHEV owners.

For Los Angeles drivers, understanding the public charging landscape helps maximize the utility of their Mitsubishi PHEV. According to LADWP's public charging information, the city continues to expand its public charging network with installations at municipal facilities, parks, and commercial districts. Many shopping centers, office buildings, and parking structures now offer Level 2 charging, allowing Mitsubishi owners to top up their battery while running errands or during the workday. While public charging typically costs more than home charging, the convenience and flexibility it provides makes it a valuable complement to home charging infrastructure, especially for drivers who don't have access to home charging or who frequently travel beyond their electric range.

It's worth noting that while CHAdeMO infrastructure remains available, the charging standard is being phased out for new installations, with most new DC fast charging stations using CCS connectors instead. This doesn't impact current Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV owners, as the existing CHAdeMO network will continue to operate for many years. However, it does highlight the importance of home and workplace charging as the primary charging solutions for Mitsubishi PHEV owners. By ensuring you have reliable Level 2 charging where you park regularly, you can minimize your dependence on public charging infrastructure and enjoy the full cost savings and convenience that plug-in hybrid ownership offers. Shaffer Construction helps Los Angeles drivers plan comprehensive charging strategies that combine home charging, workplace charging, and public charging to meet their complete transportation needs.

Why Choose Shaffer Construction for Your Mitsubishi EV Charger Installation

Shaffer Construction, Inc. has established itself as a trusted leader in EV charger installation throughout Los Angeles, serving residential, commercial, and municipal clients with expert electrical services tailored to the unique needs of electric vehicle owners. Our team of licensed electricians has extensive experience with all aspects of EV charging infrastructure, from simple residential Level 2 installations to complex commercial charging systems with multiple stations and smart load management. We understand that every Mitsubishi PHEV owner has different charging needs based on their driving patterns, home electrical system, and budget, which is why we take a consultative approach to every project, ensuring you get the right charging solution for your specific situation.

What sets Shaffer Construction apart is our comprehensive service approach that handles every aspect of your charging installation project. We begin with a thorough site assessment and electrical load study to determine your existing electrical capacity and identify any necessary upgrades. Our team manages all permit applications and coordinates with LADWP to ensure your installation qualifies for any available rebates or incentives. We handle the complete installation process, including electrical panel upgrades if needed, running new circuits, mounting and connecting the charging station, and coordinating all required inspections. This turnkey approach means you have a single point of contact throughout the project, eliminating the hassle of coordinating between multiple contractors and ensuring that every aspect of the installation meets the highest standards of quality and safety.

Our commitment to customer service extends beyond the installation itself. We provide detailed education on how to operate your new charging station, optimize your charging schedule to minimize electricity costs, and maintain your equipment for long-term reliability. As part of our service, we ensure that your installation is properly documented and that you understand how to access LADWP's various EV charging rate plans, which can provide significant savings by shifting charging to off-peak hours. We also offer ongoing maintenance and support services to keep your charging infrastructure operating at peak performance. Many of our clients return to us when they add additional vehicles to their household or upgrade to fully electric vehicles, trusting Shaffer Construction to expand their charging infrastructure to meet their evolving needs.

Choosing the right contractor for your EV charger installation is crucial to ensuring a safe, reliable, and code-compliant installation that will serve you for years to come. As a licensed electrical contractor with deep roots in the Los Angeles community, Shaffer Construction brings the expertise, professionalism, and attention to detail that EV charging installations require. Our understanding of local electrical codes, permitting requirements, and utility interconnection procedures ensures that your project proceeds smoothly from start to finish. Whether you're a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV owner looking to install your first home charging station or a business owner planning a comprehensive commercial charging solution, Shaffer Construction has the experience and capabilities to deliver exceptional results. For more insights on planning your EV charging infrastructure, explore our guide on what Los Angeles property owners need to know about EV charging infrastructure in 2025.

Conclusion: Powering Your Mitsubishi Electric Vehicle Journey

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV represents an excellent entry point into electric vehicle ownership, offering the environmental and economic benefits of electric driving with the security of a gasoline engine for longer trips. To maximize these benefits, proper charging infrastructure is essential. Whether you choose simple Level 1 charging for overnight use or invest in a Level 2 charging station for faster, more flexible charging, having a reliable home charging solution allows you to start each day with a full battery and minimize your gasoline consumption. For Los Angeles drivers, the combination of Mitsubishi's proven plug-in hybrid technology and the region's extensive public charging network creates an ideal environment for electric vehicle adoption.

As electric vehicle technology continues to evolve and Mitsubishi expands its electrified vehicle lineup, the charging infrastructure you install today will serve you well into the future. Modern Level 2 charging stations are compatible with all electric vehicles using the J1772 standard, meaning your investment in charging infrastructure will accommodate not just your current Mitsubishi PHEV but also future electric vehicles you may purchase. With California's ambitious zero-emission vehicle goals and the expanding availability of electric vehicle models across all price points and vehicle categories, having charging infrastructure in place positions you to take advantage of the continuing electric vehicle revolution.

For expert electrical services in Los Angeles, including professional EV charger installation for Mitsubishi electric vehicles, panel upgrades, load studies, and comprehensive electrical safety inspections, contact Shaffer Construction, Inc. Our experienced team is ready to help you design and install the perfect charging solution for your home or business, ensuring you can enjoy all the benefits of electric driving with complete confidence and convenience. Call us at 323-642-8509 or email hello@shaffercon.com to schedule a consultation. Visit our website at shaffercon.com to learn more about our comprehensive electrical services and how we're helping Los Angeles embrace the future of sustainable transportation.