Hybrid VRF System
24.11.2025 - Mitsubishi Electric celebrates 10 years of hybrid VRF systems
Efficiency and innovation in air conditioning technology
Press InformationTen years ago, we launched the City Multi Hybrid VRF system - a world first that has permanently changed air conditioning technology. As the first and only system of its kind, it combines the advantages of a direct evaporation system with those of a water-based system and has since become synonymous with efficiency, safety, and sustainability. To mark this anniversary, we are launching a broad campaign focusing on the success story and continuous development of the technology.
You can find out more on our anniversary page.
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Mitsubishi Electric Europe B.V.
Living Environment Systems
presse@mitsubishi-les.de
Unique combination of two circuits for greater efficiency and safety
The City Multi Hybrid VRF SystemIn 2015, we launched the City Multi Hybrid VRF system, setting new standards in air conditioning technology. What makes it special is the combination of two circuits: while refrigerant circulates between the outdoor units and the hybrid BC controllers, only water is used as the heat transfer medium inside the building. This significantly reduces the amount of refrigerant required.
"Overall, up to 43% less refrigerant can be used compared to VRF systems, which in turn makes it easier to comply with safety precautions and significantly reduces the risk of leaks," says Michael Lechte, Product Marketing Manager at Mitsubishi Electric Living Environment Systems, highlighting the key advantages. , users also benefit from milder air outlet temperatures without drafts or a feeling of cold compared to conventional VRF indoor units thanks to the water temperature control.
Cost-effectiveness through high efficiency and wide range of applications
In addition to safety and comfort, there is another argument in favor of the City Multi Hybrid VRF system: cost-effectiveness. This solution achieves high efficiency values, particularly in the partial load range, which significantly reduce operating costs compared to conventional solutions. The combination of low refrigerant charge, high energy efficiency, and a wide range of applications makes the City Multi Hybrid VRF system a forward-looking solution that meets increasing legal requirements as well as expectations for comfort, efficiency, and sustainability.
The system is a sought-after technology, especially in demanding buildings such as hotels and office complexes, where these requirements are particularly high. This is primarily because the solution offers a wide range of options: while 77 units can be integrated indoors, there are 49 different modules to choose from for outdoor use. The sizes range from 22.4 kW to 56 kW, with cooling and heating capacities between 25.0 kW and 63.0 kW. Since the water-based systems are easy to plan and modular in design and can be expanded at any time, they offer a high degree of planning reliability in new buildings, retrofits, and the modernization of existing buildings.
Continuous development for sustainable air conditioning technology
The Hybrid VRF system has been continuously developed since its market launch in 2015 in order to optimally meet emerging requirements:
- We switched to the more environmentally friendly refrigerant R32 back in 2019, significantly reducing the system-specific CO₂ equivalent compared to VRF systems with R410A thanks to lower GWP and reduced filling quantities.
- Our solution is therefore ideally suited for use in green buildings and for certifications such as LEED, BREEAM, and DGNB.
- In 2020, we introduced the Y series, which allows you to choose between cooling and heating – as a supplement to the R2 series for simultaneous heating and cooling.
- Further additions to the range include the vertical BC controller (since 2022), the clad chest unit PFFY-WL VEM (from 2024), and the compact ceiling-mounted unit PCFY-WL (from 2025).
Anniversary campaign highlights the innovative strength of the system
The various communication measures include:
- a landing page,
- an anniversary brochure,
- various newsletters
- and various social media campaigns.
With these measures, we are demonstrating that the City Multi Hybrid VRF system is still full of innovative power even after 10 years and continues to set standards in air conditioning technology.
The advantages of hybrid VRF at a glance:
- Up to 43% refrigerant savings
- Hybrid technology for maximum safety
- Flexible, modular integration and expansion
- High efficiency and future-proofing
- Ideal for green buildings and certifications
