i Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi sales down, imports firm

2008-03-06T06:27:00.001-08:00

Sales of Mitsubishi's locally made 380 sedan have taken a dive, a month after the car company announced plans to close its assembly plant in Adelaide.

But support for the company's range of imported vehicles remains strong with a seven per cent rise in its overall market performance in February.

According to official figures released Wednesday, Mitsubishi sold just 471 of its 380s in February, a 53.6 per cent slide on the 1,014 retailed in the same month last year.

The result was also 32 per cent down on the 692 sold in January.

But Mitsubishi spokeswoman Lenore Fletcher said that was the result the company forecast after announcing the model would be discontinued once the assembly plant was closed at the end of this month.

"In fact, we're in a situation of not having any vehicles left, they have all been allocated," she said.

"We're basically building in February and March to our commitments and that was what we expected.

"Those vehicles are basically accounted for with dealerships taking them or through our fleet commitments."

Overall, Mitsubishi's seven per cent rise in demand last month to 5,423 vehicles came on strong demand for its imported models, particularly the Lancer and its light commercial range.

That took the company's year-to-date sales to 10,507, a 9.2 per cent improvement compared to the same period in 2007.

Its performance reflected the overall strength of the vehicle market which was also up just over nine per cent as customers shrugged off concerns over rising interest rates.

Mitsubishi's results seem to vindicate the company's view that a decision to close the Tonsley Park manufacturing plant at the end of March, with the loss of about 1,000 jobs, would not adversely impact on the company's retail performance.

At the time the decision was taken, president and chief executive Rob McEniry said Mitsubishi did not expect a major consumer backlash.

He pointed to rising demand for its imported vehicles and said sales of the 380 accounted for less than 10 per cent of the company's business.

Ms Fletcher said February had been an outstanding month for the company considering the circumstances surrounding the announcement of its plans to close Tonsley Park.

"We didn't show any slackening off during February at all, in terms of sales," she said.

"That is a very heartening result for Mitsubishi."

In fact, excluding the 380, Mitsubishi enjoyed an increase in sales across the bulk of its vehicle range. Only the Grandis people mover bucked the trend with one less sold in February this year compared to February 2007.

Of its bigger selling models, sales of the Lancer were up 5.8 per cent to 1,682 and demand for the Colt rose 35 per cent to 325.

The company also did well among commercial buyers with its two Triton models and sold 702 Outlander sports utility vehicles.

Source

Fifth Gear - Season 13, Episode 7 - 2008.03.03

2008-03-05T06:42:00.001-08:00

Jason goes offroading with England rugby captain, Phil Vickery on a Mitsubishi New L200/Strada/Triton.

Download link:
Click here

10 Good things about the Evo X?

2008-02-23T08:05:00.001-08:00

KNOWN as the supercar slayer, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is packed with cutting-edge technology and enough acronyms to match, such as Super – Active Yaw Control (S-AYC), Active Centre Differential (ACD), and the phenomenal Twin Clutch Sports Shift Transmission (SST).

Here are ten facts about the Lancer Evolution X that prove the designers have thought of everything to make this the best Evolution yet:

1. No Reverse Gear –To save weight, the five-speed manual transmission has no dedicated reverse gear. Instead, it uses an arrangement in which first and third gears engage with an idler gear on a separate shaft to reverse the direction of rotation.

2. Spoilers In The Wheel Arch - The wheel houses have a miniscule spoiler lip around the curve of the wheel to prevent the wind from swirling in the wheel housing thus improving the aerodynamics of the vehicle.

3. Energy Saving Glass - Solar control glass uses an infrared absorbing material in its intermediate layer to reduce transmission of solar heat by 66-100%. The glass also cuts out transmission of ultra-violet light but transmits all visible light to keep the interior airy and light.

4. Stainless Steel Manifold - The exhaust system uses a stainless steel manifold, which is smoother than other alternatives to maximise airflow. An Inconel turbocharger is located downstream and optimisation of the compressor wheel has improved response by 18% over the Lancer Evolution IX.

5. Your Car, The Way You Want It - Mitsubishi’s ETACs (Electronic Total Automobile Control) system allows you to personalise the set up of your car, just the way you want it. You can decide how long the interior light stays on after door closure, if at all. You decide when the wing mirrors fold in and out – at the tough of a button, or automatically when the door is closed and ignition switched on or off. You choose.

6. Acoustic Engineering – The latest in lightweight acoustic and vibration dampening materials, including foam filling for the pillars, have been strategically placed throughout the body of the Lancer Evolution X. This ensures noise and vibration performance that befits a new generation high performance saloon, while minimising any weight increase.

7. Lights That Look Around Corners – The Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) uses high intensity discharge (HID) headlights increase the driver’s field of vision to make night driving safer. The clever bit is that the car detects when the driver turns the steering wheel and automatically switches on an additional beam to light up the oncoming corner.

8. External Vents Improve Breathing – Two bonnet vents release engine heat, as with previous Evolutions, but a new feature is the central air intake to help the engine breath and increase power output. New vents have also been added behind the front wheel to let engine heat escape more efficiently.

9. F1 Floating Piston Technology - The all-new aluminium engine is not only 12KG lighter than the previous 2.0 straight four unit, but also uses full floating pistons made by Mahle, renowned for use in F1 cars. Made of a very hard and strong alloy the pistons are able to handle the higher power produced by this road-ready performance car.

10. Mitsubishi Service Plan - The Lancer Evolution X is the first Evolution to ever be made available with the Mitsubishi Service Plan - for just £400. This covers the vehicle’s first three scheduled services and a once-only 1,000 mile oil change.

Source

MSN First Drives' Evo X

2008-02-10T23:15:00.000-08:00

Mr. Perry Stern of MSN Auto tested the new EVO X from Mitsubishi. He asked himself, is it any better than the last generation?

He stated,

On an autocross course, this system really demonstrated its abilities — in
high-speed turns control was impressive, and drivers can almost feel the car
grappling for the best traction. Add in a longer wheelbase, sweeter
suspension
tuning, and it becomes the best-handling EVO ever from
Mitsubishi. So to answer
the question originally posed — Is the new EVO
better than before? — The answer
is a resounding "'yes."

Full Story: Here

Interesting Evo X Dyno Results

2008-02-10T02:07:00.001-08:00

Source & Discussion link: http://forums.somethingawful.com/showthread.php?threadid=2759237

AMS, that crazy chicago based 4G63 tuning company (think 8 second, 1000whp+ EVO VIII), got there hands on a new EVO X.

President/Chief Tuner/Expert Crank-Walker's thoughts after some dyno runs:

"The first pull I thought we had a boost leak. The A/F went off the
scale rich and I can feel the engine bucking from inside the car as it
was choking up on fuel. The dyno graph showed a rough power curve and
to my surprise low power. A boost leak will cause a MAF car to run rich
so just to be certain I did a boost leak test on the car and it was
tight, not one leak. After a few pulls the power climbed and leveled
out at about 238-240whp. On average a stock EVO IX puts down around
255-260whp on our dyno, so about 15-20whp more than the EVO X. Peak
torque is about the same but as expected drops off up top compared to
the IX. After searching the forums this looks about right as other EVO
X’s are down about the same amount to the IX’s. So it looks like bad
news right? Well before we get all upset there are a few things that
look very promising.

We logged a bunch of parameters and found two interesting things. The
biggest surprise is how rich the car is running. I feel that by leaning
it out we’ll find a bunch of power, I’d guess 15-25whp just from that
alone. The next thing we noticed was boost. Boost peaked out at 22psi
and dropped down to only 13.5 psi at redline! A stock IX runs about 16
psi up top. If we can hold boost to 16-17psi I think that alone will be
worth an extra 25-30whp. Timing was very consistent and it never pulled
any timing during the pulls. If anything the timing seems to be a
little bit on the aggressive side so it will be interesting to see if
any gains can be had with timing adjustments. From just the air fuel
ratio and boost level adjustments I’m confident that we can put down
another 40-60whp. That would bring the EVO X to 280-300whp, which would
be very respectable with only those modifications. The team at AMS will
be working hard to bring you the latest information and improvements
regarding the EVO X."

I found that pretty weird especially since mitsubishi rated the X
higher than the IX. Even more interesting is the fact that around the
track the X still keeps up with the IX (not as fast, but not too far
behind), despite the lack of advantage in the horsepower and weight
departments.

But, there seems to be a pretty good uh... fix...

"Well we quickly bypassed the factory boost control system, which
oddly enough has two boost control solenoids. We set boost to peak at
the same factory level of 22psi but this time it held to 16-17psi at
redline. Peak power now climbed to 265-270whp, that’s more like it! So
now we’re holding roughly the same boost or 1psi more than an EVO IX
and we’re making 10-15whp more, looking good"

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Tokyo Auto Salon introduces the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X with a tuner touch...

2008-02-08T21:08:00.001-08:00

Three main show cars that graced the whole show. The new Godzilla GT-R, Subaru Impreza STI and the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X.

The tuned Evo X was fitted with a new intercooler, a complete coilover suspension and upgraded brakes. The team of HKS and Camp featured an Evo with an exposed carbon fiber splitter, side skirts and rear diffuser, but, more impressively, Camp integrated its new Computerized Automobile Multi Player, which acts similar to the GT-R's dash-mounted screen that displays a variety of engine parameters in lieu of a row of analog gauges.

Pictures:

Source: Autoblog

Best Motoring Video feat. Lancer Evo X vs. Impreza WRX STi

2008-02-08T20:51:00.001-08:00

Best Motoring Feb 2008 - Lan-Evo X vs 2008 STi battle!!!! And Godzilla's back!
Three Japanese dream cars in one go!

Download link: http://www.mininova.org/tor/1096821

Mitsubishi unveils the face lifted 2009 Galant

2008-02-07T06:28:00.000-08:00

Mitsubishi has revealed its updated 2009 Galant sedan, which the company has on display at the Chicago Auto Show this week. While the Galant's new design isn't revolutionary, it does give the car a fresher look.

Things that are new in the 2009 Galant are as follows:

Removed Boulay Grilles
Lower intake, sporty hood
New tail lights
New shift gate
Power Sunroof - Sport models
Heated Seats - Sport models

The 2009 U.S. Galant will be available in four trims — four-cylinder ES, four-cylinder Sport, V6 Sport and guess... a Ralliart version. Both four cylinder version is a 160hp 2.4L MIVEC four-cylinder — mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. The more expensive V6 uses a 230 horsepower 3.8L V6 where the Ralliart version will provide a 258hp from a 3.8L V6. The two, V6 Sport and Ralliart will shift through a 5-speed Invecs automatic transmission.

Good: Are you sure this will sell?
Bad: It's not the Galant I used to know...
Verdict: The 380 pulled out its sales in Australia... How much more hope could there be for the U.S. market?

Tribute to Mitsubishi Australia Plant & its employers...

2008-02-07T06:08:00.000-08:00

Three messages arrived on my inbox this month from Mitsubishi Motors Press Mail. It states that "Adelaide production facility, which manufactures only the large 380 sedan, will cease operations."

Though I feel sad, but I feel much remorse to the 930 employers who lost their jobs. The 380 is a US Galant-based sedan. In its launch, the car had very slow sales even with a following 20% discount and newer face lifted versions. I guess I can say that the AU$600 million dollar is wasted.
Hang on Mitsubishi! I hope you'll find the time to remember your employees' need for a new job, retraining etc.

This blog can only send e-flowers dedicated to the Mitsubishi employers in Adelaide Factory.

Iris - symbol for hope.

Mitsubishi Introduces 2008 Outlander With Standard Active Stability Control

2007-12-06T19:46:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Model Year variants of the popular Mitsubishi Outlander have arrived in Australia with specification updates including important safety, design and technology features.

Following in the footsteps of the company's newly released Lancer line-up, Mitsubishi's Active Stability Control with Traction Control (ASTC) system has been fitted to every variant in the 2008 Outlander range. While safety has taken the front seat in the vehicle's upgrade, styling, practicality and comfort have not been forgotten, and Mitsubishi is confident the improvements to the 2008 Outlander will increase its appeal even further.

"Since its release in October last year, the Mitsubishi Outlander has accomplished a real sales increase in the market place and has shown growth of almost 80 per cent on a year to date basis," commented Robert McEniry, Mitsubishi's president and chief executive officer.

"This is great news for the Outlander brand - but it is set to get even better. We are committed to listening to our customers, and many of the changes we have implemented in this 2008 model year update are in direct response to feedback from our dealers and clients."

All variants in the Outlander line-up - including the 2.4-litre LS and XLS and the 3-litre V6 VR and VRX - are now available in seven seat layout. In addition, a new manual transmission is now available exclusively on the 2.4-litre LS model, providing an attractive entry price point to the range.

Also new to the 2008 Outlander line-up is a luxury version available on XLS and VRX models. This includes new exterior styling highlights such as chrome grille surround, chrome side sill and chrome exterior door handles and a new, unique 18 inch wheel.

The 2008 Outlander adheres to Mitsubishi's value statement of providing well equipped vehicles with high equipment levels at attractive prices and the vehicle benefits from specification upgrades with improvements to both the Outlander's interior and exterior styling.

Mitsubishi has enhanced the interior appointments of the vehicles, including trim treatment, equipment levels and instrumentation. External upgrades to the MY 2008 Outlander include new alloy wheels to LS, new headlamps to selected models and revised door decals.

Mitsubishi Motors to Premiere Tier 2 Bin 5 Diesel Concept at NAIAS

2007-12-06T19:42:00.000-08:00

From: Green Car Congress

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and Mitsubishi Motors North America Inc. (MMNA) will premiere the Mitsubishi Concept-RA Tier 2 Bin 5-compliant diesel at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit in January.

Mitsubishi says that the vehicle is being shown in Detroit due to its close links with the Mitsubishi Eclipse, which has successfully sold in North America for many years. If the vehicle receives a positive response from Europe, it is likely to be launched into these markets “in due course”.

The concept features the S-AWC vehicle dynamics control system driveline and the Twin Clutch SST automated manual transmission used in Lancer Evolution X in Japan, and is powered by a new high-output, high-efficiency diesel engine.

The Concept-RA is powered by a new high-efficiency, low-emissions 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbodiesel engine with MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve lift & timing Electronic Control system). With piezoelectric injector common-rail direct fuel injection that allows a lower compression ratio and with a VD (Variable Diffuser)/VG (Variable Geometry) turbocharger, the clean diesel unit delivers a maximum output of 150 kW (201 hp) and maximum torque of 420 Nm (310 lb-ft).

For compliance with US emissions standards (EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and CA LEV II), the engine relies on a new catalytic converter system that brings together diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), NO_x trap catalyst (NTC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) technologies.

For improved crashworthiness and to reduce vehicle weight, the Concept-RA features a new body structure using an aluminum space frame made from extruded aluminum sections and die-cast aluminum members, as well as engine hood, fenders and other outer panels made from high impact-resistance and easily recyclable plastic resin.

The S-AWC driveline adds Active Steering and Active Suspension control to the ACD (Active Center Differential), AYC (Active Yaw Control), Sport ABS (Antilock Brake System) and ASC (Active Stability Control) component systems that constitute the system used on Lancer Evolution. S-AWC integrally manages all of these systems to realize advanced levels of control over drive torque and braking, thereby upgrading traction, cornering and vehicle stability.

Mitsubishi Outlander Team Support Cars

2007-12-06T19:38:00.000-08:00

I wonder what will the Outlander look like when it comes out of the Dakar Rally scene. I hope it will look good as heaven.

From: Press

Team Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart will deploy 13 support vehicles comprised of seven trucks, five Pajero/Monteros and one Outlander which is a newcomer to the support fleet. Based on the European version and powered by a 2.2-liter in-line four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, the desert version of this car is equipped with additional safety items (roll cage, bucket seats) and special rally features, such as tuned suspension, heavy-duty tires and various protective guards. No hardware-related modifications have been made to the engine, transmission or electronically-controlled 4WD system. Only fine-tuning changes and adjustments have been made to optimize certain settings for the difficult task in hand. The additional fuel tank is required for the longer competitive sections. As was the case with the Delica D:5 used during the 2007 event, the Outlander will be driven by Ralliart contracted driver Katsuhiko Taguchi who will be accompanied by engineers and who will carry a wide range of service tools and spare parts.

Wilks wins Production Car World Rally Championship on Wales Rally GB

2007-12-06T19:36:00.000-08:00

From: http://www.walesrallygb.com/52_560.php

Guy Wilks has won the Production Car World Rally Championship class award on Wales Rally GB.

The 26-year-old was a guest driver in the category, after being nominated by his sporting authority, the Motor Sports Association, to run in the division,

His rally was made more complex as he was also battling with fellow Briton Mark Higgins, 36, for the British Rally Championship title.

For the majority of the event Wilks and Higgins duelled at the front, both of them pushing their Mitsubishi Lancer’s to the maximum.

However, Higgins had a run of problems, including punctures and gearbox woes, at the end of day one, and was never able to recover the lost ground as more issues beset his car.

At the finish an elated Wilks, who is co-driven by Phil Pugh, said: “I’m absolutely delighted. That was a long final stage. I was concentrating 100% but it is an absolutely fantastic feeling.

“Great. Awesome. I’m over the moon. It’s been a hard year.”

Higgins, co-driven by Scott Martin, was heart-broken after the rally - and faced a tough battle just to get his Mitsubishi to the finish at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium as his gearbox problems worsened.

The 36-year-old said: “We’ve lost 4th, 5th and 2nd gears and we’re not back to Cardiff yet. Guy did well and made very few mistakes. But next year I’ll be back to give him a fight.”

Higgins’ late woes promoted Finns Juho Hanninen and Mikko Markkula into second in the PWRC category after an impressive drive in which they took the battle to the local stars.

“I’m pleased with that, although the goal is always first position,” said Mitsubishi driver Hanninen.

On the opening leg of the rally Toshi Arai was crowned as Production Car World Rally Champion.

Although he was not competing on the event, Arai’s chief rival Gabriel Pozzo (Mitsubishi) crashed out, meaning hiss points total couldn’t be overcome.

Production Car World Rally Championship
1st 59: Guy Wilks/Phil Pugh
2nd 36: Juho Hanninen/Mikko Markkula
3rd 34: Mark Higgins/Scott Martin
4th 44: Alessandro Bettega/Simone Scattolin
5th 53: David Higgins/Ieuan Thomas
6th 45: Mirco Baldacci/Giovani Agnese
7th 46: Armindo Araujo/Miguel Ramalho
8th 49: Stepan Vojtech/Michal Ernst
9th 47: Andreas Aigner/Klaus Wicha
10th 33: Loris Baldacci/Rudy Pollet

*Results remain subject to official FIA confirmation

Mitsubishi’s L200 Provides The Right Tool For The Job

2007-11-04T06:10:00.000-08:00

Buildbase Builders Merchants has recently purchased 14 new Mitsubishi L200 4Work single-cab pick-ups as part of an upgrade programme to replace all its existing fleet of previous model L200s.

Underlining Mr Alexander’s purchasing decision is the L200’s legendary durability and purposeful specification...

The vehicles are used by Hirebase, Buildbase’s tool hire division, to provide a delivery and collection service to construction sites in each of its branch areas, carrying a variety of small plant, tools and other construction site equipment. [More]

JDM Evo X will hit NZ first!

2007-10-30T08:06:00.000-07:00

Why? All because Mitsubishi New Zealand wants to beat used-import dealers in the country that might sell an EVO first.

"Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand (MMNZ) is understandably keen to get the Evo X on sale before the used-import operators secure near-new examples of the iconic model and ship them over."

The news announced that it will be launched in New Zealand this month. Mitsubishi NZ has secured the first 50 units of this iconic vehicle. All of these EVO's are equipped with a 5 Speed Manual and will be sold at $62,990. A further shipment of the new semi-automatic TC-SST (Twin Clutch-Sport Shift Transmission) version will follow early next year, at $67,990.

Second quarter next year, the specifications will be the same with the Australian-spec Lancer Evolution to meet the Australian Design Rules (ADR) emissions regulations.

Intense customer satisfaction in Mitsubishi South Africa's Lifestyle Center

2007-10-28T02:49:00.000-07:00

“This survey shows that Mitsubishi tends to satisfy 88.2% of
its customers, which is very high. Broken down further, however, the Midrand
branch satisfies 94% of its customers."

Each Lifestyle Centre is also actively involved in setting up in-house promotions
and special events. Saturday mornings are especially busy with
varying events such as rugby, carnivals, coffee mornings and 4x4 outings.

The Midrand centre is also actively involved with its local community,
participating in fund-raising events.

“The Lifestyle Centres cater to the concept of a total experience and have a
social feel about them,” says Hansen. “I like the approach that we ‘synovate’, so
whether a customer visits us because they wish to buy, sell, service or just look
around, we are all constantly in the same frame of mind, a Mitsubishi one.”

Hansen is proud to quote from a survey that encompasses the entire motor
service industry. “This survey shows that Mitsubishi tends to satisfy 88.2% of
its customers, which is very high. Broken down further, however, the Midrand
branch satisfies 94% of its customers. I believe this truly reflects how well the
transparency concept is working at the Lifestyle Centres.”

There is a sense, too, that the Mitsubishi Lifestyle Centres are really just the

beginning of it all, that there are more novel concepts to come. That Mitsubishi
is a species which changes the world around it and makes a considerable difference.
A Lifestyle Centre is indeed an experience.

Exclusive One-on-One: Mitsubishi Motors President Osamu Masuko

2007-10-27T09:54:00.000-07:00

By Peter Nunn of edmunds AutoObserver (October 1, 2007)
Source: http://www.autoobserver.com/2007/10/mitsubishi-moto.html

The past decade has been a true roller-coaster ride for Japan's Mitsubishi Motors. Beset by scandals in Japan, a dramatic fall off in North American profitability and having its main partner, DaimlerChrysler, part company, Mitsubishi had been buffeted by one storm after another.

After racking up huge losses on top of those storms, now comes the turnaround. A three-year business plan coupled with a string of hot new models, with the new Outlander and Lancer leading the way, has seen Mitsubishi undergo the classic product-led recovery.

On Monday, Mitsubishi, now Japan's fastest-growing car exporter, saw its stock jump to its highest level in two months on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. That came after Mitsubishi tripled its operating profit forecast last Friday.

Since January 2005, Osamu Masuko, 58, has been Mitsubishi's personable president and chief operating officer and the man at the helm as Mitsubishi trod the harrowing but now successful path back to profitability. Masuko, who has a business background from the Mitsubishi Corp. and is a 35-year Mitsubishi veteran, spoke to AutoObserver’s Peter Nunn in Tokyo.

Three years ago, Mitsubishi was in deep crisis. Now you are profitable again. How did you come back to profit, and where are you now in the recovery cycle?

For sure, we had a very tough time in 2004. However on January 28, 2005, we announced a new three-year Mitsubishi Motors Revitalization Plan, and, during 2006 and 2007, we basically followed through with this plan. This is the last year of the plan.

What were the key parts of the plan?

What we did first of all was to embark on changing the corporate culture and the corporate structure. We wanted employees to do their job with a sense of crisis in mind. In the first instance, they should understand what kind of situation the company was in and why it happened. So we started talking directly with employees including those on the factory floor. Looking outside the company, recovering trust and improving business were big pillars (to our recovery).

And Mitsubishi's business results are now looking much better.

As we carried through with the plan, we posted an operating profit in fiscal 2005 (April 2005 to March 2006) one year earlier than planned. Operating, pre-tax and net profit figures all returned to the black in the latest period, in fiscal 2006. One prime factor in Mitsubishi's recovery has been strong products which customers appreciate, in particular, the Outlander, i, Pajero and Delica D:5. The Lancer is also going well in the U.S., too.

So Mitsubishi inside has been shaken up....

The message I've sent as the president is all about decision, performance, speed. Deciding things without waiting, performing once a decision's been made. Speed means, let's do it quickly. We have to overcome problems by sharing information, which I think has been going well until now. In particular, I tell people that bad news should be shared straightaway. As for good news, well, it's OK to wait a while.

You're back in profit but the recent volatile yen/dollar rate can have a big effect on earnings. If the yen soars to ¥110 to the dollar, can you still make a profit?

The recent exchange rate (of around ¥118-¥120) has helped exporting companies, no doubt. I assume a profit could be gained even at ¥110. This fiscal year (2007-'08) we aim to be in profit, and we are making efforts to ensure our company earns profits consistently without being influenced by exchange rates and prime oil prices, even if they do fluctuate to a certain degree. We won't turn into the red even if the yen goes up to 110 yen.

Mitsubishi's capital tie-up with DaimlerChrysler came to an abrupt end. What now? Are you happy with the current situation or looking perhaps for a new partner?

We still hold an alliance with DaimlerChrysler, which will stay. Our leading shareholder, which was DaimlerChrysler, is now the Mitsubishi group. Three Mitsubishi group corporations hold a 34-percent stake and support us. During the DaimlerChrysler era, Mitsubishi was positioned as part of its strategy. But now, we can think what's best for MMC, and we can make that decision. That's a good thing.

So, no new partner?

Since MMC is devoted to fulfilling the Revitalization Plan, we're not searching for a new partner especially in terms of a capital alliance. We are, however, implementing alliances (tie-ups) with OEM supply, technology and components. We think that working cooperation will go up in individual cases from now on, too.

Could you talk about those individual alliances?

Well, we're in rather a good relationship with DaimlerChrysler as a business partner right now. We get the Raider truck from them in the U.S., and we're together with the development and manufacturing of the World Engine (for both Chrysler and Mitsubishi vehicles). MMC supplies engines to DaimlerChrysler. We supply OEM minicars to Nissan in Japan. We also do an OEM supply of the Outlander to PSA in Europe. DaimlerChrysler, in turn, supplies us with diesel engines. We, MMC, also buy diesel engines from Volkswagen.

Is Mitsubishi planning fresh ties with the new-look, privatized Chrysler?

As far as Chrysler is concerned, no specific talks are underway.

How do you see Mitsubishi's business in North America now, and in the years ahead?

Other automakers have been doing good business in the U.S., but Mitsubishi's case has been extremely severe in recent years. That's because we took wrong steps in terms of sales. We relied on unreasonable sales financing, fleet sales and so on. As a result, trust from dealers collapsed and trust from customers also couldn't be obtained.

How did you mount a comeback?

We posted a Japanese executive as president (Hiroshi Harunari who took over as chief executive of Mitsubishi's North American operations in January 2006). We recovered trust from the dealers, implemented commitments to the U.S. market and made a return to normal sales. As a result, we think we've achieved the targets of the first phase. Next we think we're about to enter the second growth phase. The Lancer and Outlander models exported from Japan have been going well. We'll also build up locally-made products as we draw a growth strategy in the U.S.

Just to confirm, Mitsubishi's operations in the U.S. are in the black?

In fiscal 2006 (April 2006 to March 2007), we posted an operating profit. This year, fiscal 2007, it may be plus or minus zero, we do not know now yet since we've been investing in sales promotion and advertising.

Small, fuel efficient, eco-friendly cars are now big in North America. Are you thinking about maybe entering the market with the Colt or tiny i minicar?

If you ask if there's a plan, the answer is there's no such plan is on the table. From the global viewpoint, however, interest in the environment is now so high. With the price of crude oil also high, global demand for small cars is sure to go up. Mitsubishi is working on developing a small car, which may be the next Colt. The current Colt has done well in Japan and Europe, therefore the next small car may be for Asia, ASEAN, and U.S. as an extension of the line, in addition to Japan and Europe. However, there's no concrete plan - such as when and how many.

Where you on hybrids?

We don't have a hybrid vehicle at present. But we are developing a clean diesel engine and will start manufacturing it in 2009. We've started selling a flexible fuel vehicle (with up to 85-percent ethanol mix) in Brazil and since there also seems to be some demand in Europe and the U.S., we'd like to think about that while watching the market conditions for FFVs.

Mitsubishi continues to pursue electric vehicles...

Yes, we are developing EVs and doing some initial testing. We'd like to boost the numbers of electric vehicles. The technology that goes into them could be adapted to developing a hybrid. We'd like to build an electric vehicle and have it lead to a plug-in hybrid.

But the problem is still the battery...

We're going to establish a joint venture among GS Yuasa Corporation, the Mitsubishi Corp. and MMC. We think the volume production of batteries will start in the second half of 2008-09 business year so we would like to start selling in the market by 2010. The electric vehicle is already pretty much developed. Since there's no big obstacle left in bringing it to the market, we're developing it with a view that first sales are in sight.

So aside from diesels and electric vehicles, you're not planning a Prius- type hybrid to challenge Toyota and Honda?

Commercializing such a hybrid is not in our plan.

Meantime, you have the amazing new Lancer Evolution coming.

Yes, the new Evo will launch this autumn. I drove it three weeks ago. It's turned into a really exciting car, different from previous models. Even though the price hasn't been announced, we've already heard many would like to buy it. This Lancer Evolution X (Ten) is a flagship car for MMC, like the Pajero. We're looking forward to delivering it to customers.

'Evo' is such a hot name. Is there any truth to the rumor that Mitsubishi is working on new Evo performance brand to create, for instance, an Evolution Colt?

We're not thinking of such a development.

Turning now to Japan, car sales continue to slump and the market seems especially tough right now. How do you think the market can be revived?

Rather than being tough, there are structural issues: Japan's declining birthrate, the graying elder generation and young Japanese who are not buying cars. Total demand is falling due to matters like these. The population in three main areas (Tokyo, Nagoya and Kansai, mainly in Osaka) is increasing. There's still demand for cars in local areas but sales in big cities are in a slump. It's difficult to deal with structural problems like this. So now we've come to an era when the car should be developed thinking about the Japanese lifestyle.

Where are Mitsubishi's best markets now?

Roughly speaking, Europe, including the Ukraine and Russia. Also the Middle East, South America, Africa and Australia are in good shape. China is also an important market where demand is growing rapidly. Generally, markets that have natural resources are growing, which means we have to make continual efforts to increase sales in such markets.

What about your operations in Australia? Any plans for a 380 successor?

We launched the 380 in Australia in October 2005 when the price of oil started to climb and the large car market shrunk. We're making every effort to increase sales of the 380 however in actual fact it's difficult to sell such a large car in the Australian market. On the other hand, vehicles imported from Japan and Thailand are selling very well due to the favorable Australian economy.

So are you going to continue 380 production in Australia until 2010 or beyond and then begin manufacturing a successor?

What we need to do right now is to sell as many 380s as possible. In order to do that, we have facelifted the car and strengthened its marketability. We're not ready yet to consider about a successor.

The 380 and the viability of your Australian plant go hand in hand. Can I just be sure about the future of the plant, whether you will keep it open or not, as this issue is always in the media?

Regarding the plant, we are now trying our best to continue production there.

Switching to brand strategy, what are the key strengths of the Mitsubishi brand? What is Mitsubishi, exactly?

I assume everyone has the Pajero, Lancer Evolution X in mind. Mitsubishi is good at four-wheel-drive, SUVs, durability, driving ability and so on with technologies gained through many years of competing in rallies. From now on, Mitsubishi will further build up safety and fun so customers would appreciate it.

How often do you visit the U.S.?

Usually three times a year, including visiting the Detroit Auto Show.

Lastly, what do you see as your biggest threat as president? What keeps you awake at night?

Rivals exist, of course, and technology will progress faster when rivals are involved. So we don't feel they are a threat. That cannot be helped. The biggest issue for automakers including MMC and people across the globe is the environment. There's no one trump card. We need to challenge across a number of fronts, including gasoline, diesel and hybrid. Each has its own weakness. How to deal with the environment over the coming years is a hurdle for all automakers. At the same time, demand for low-cost cars is rising. With the environment, naturally there's cost involved. So how to meet and balance both issues is the matter at hand.

About the author

Peter Nunn is a Tokyo-based automotive writer. Originally from the U.K., moving to Japan in 1988, he reports on the Japanese auto industry for media outlets in North America, Japan, Europe and Australia.

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Best regards and I wish Mr Masuko all the best for Mitsubishi from iMitsubishi.blogspot.com

Mitsubishi i (EYE) now has a Sporty version!

2007-10-25T10:06:00.000-07:00

Introducing the another trim of the infamous Mitsubishi i (EYE), the Sport Style Edition. This must be one of the sexiest cutest kei cars in Japan today. Sad to say, this car is overpriced in the European market so we might not expect Mitsubishi to release this package since it's the most expensive Mitsubishi "i" yet.

Source: http://www.mitsubishi-motors.co.jp/i/lineup/lin_04.html

ROAR Girls!

2007-10-25T09:34:00.000-07:00

Hot babes of ROAR - makes me want to live in Japan. Damn, Mitsubishi people in here are too conservative unlike Subaru which also has good looking hot girls.

Click to enlarge the picture

Source: http://www.roar.co.jp/roar-girls
More wallpapers here: http://www.roar.co.jp/roar-girls/files/present.html

Mitsubishi Motors sets new record: 1,000,000 pick up trucks exported from Thailand

2007-10-24T12:16:00.000-07:00

Patumtani, Thailand, Oct 11, 2007 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Motors (Thailand) Co. Ltd. (MMTh) today announced the successful export of one million pickup trucks. In addition, the company announced the new competitive Triton Million Edition, a customized domestic model.

Mitsubishi Motors (Thailand) Co. Ltd. announced the completion of the million-pickup goal after hitting its million-unit milestone (all vehicle types) last June. Mr. Michiro Imai, President of MMTh, released this statement regarding the company's success in exporting to over 140 countries worldwide:

"This success has not only proved the company's capability and potential in exports but has also shown that Thai-built Mitsubishi vehicles are of top quality. Its acceptance by customers worldwide is a credit to the skills of Thai people, and to Mitsubishi's advanced technology, which give the Triton* the attractive appearance, performance, and comfort it is known for. The Triton has become a symbol of MMTh's drive to excel and take its place as a world-leading automaker. Today's success is doubtless another step on that path, as well as a further step for Thailand toward becoming 'the Detroit of Asia'.

As pleased as I am with our current achievements, none would have been possible without the support of the Thai people, especially the government sectors who support our infrastructure and automobile industry policy, suppliers who provide high quality and punctual delivery, and logistic companies who also support that punctual delivery."

Mitsubishi has started business in Thailand since 1961. The company began manufacturing light-duty trucks and later expanded to sedans for domestic markets. Years later, because of the capability and potential of the company, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Japan made the Thailand operation a production base for worldwide exports. This marked the first time in the history of Japan's automotive industry that pick up truck production was based outside Japan; it was also a first for Thailand.

The company's first export model was the Mitsubishi Champ, which went to Canada in 1988. The company went on to export the Mitsubishi L 200 Cyclone pick up truck to Portugal in 1989. Since then, exports have expanded to more than 140 countries worldwide, covering Europe, Australia, Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Over the years, all Mitsubishi pick up models (Cyclone, L200 Strada, and the Triton) have been manufactured at the production base (Leam Chabang Industrial Estate). Total pick up exports from Thailand in 2006 totaled 133,109 units; in 2007 the target is set higher at 140,000 units.

The new Triton, still just two years old, has already received more than 10 awards both domestically and internationally.

For more details, please visit: http://media.mitsubishi-motors.com/pressrelease/e/corporate/detail1684.html

A closer picture from Nihon Car. Click to enlarge.

Mitsubishi Concept-ZT in the Mitsubishi Motors lineup at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show (Updated)

2007-10-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

The Concept-ZT showcases an advanced level of driving pleasure, safety and environmental responsibility — Mitsubishi Motor's vehicle strategy — wrapped in a realistic package. Under the hood, a newly developed fuel-efficient, 2.2-liter clean diesel engine is mated to the new Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission). Concept-ZT also features advanced active safety as well as passive safety technology, such as its pop-up hood.

*2: ZT:"Z" meaning the ultimate, plus "T" for tourer

From Okazaki, Japan to NedCar Europe

2007-10-24T11:57:00.000-07:00

Mitsubishi Motors transfers Outlander production for Europe

Tokyo 18 September 2007 — In order to keep up with the strong demand for Outlander in Europe and new Lancer* worldwide, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has decided to transfer production of the Outlander (for European markets) to its regional production hub (Netherlands Car B.V. [NedCar], Born, the Netherlands) during 2008.

The company currently produces Outlander at its Nagoya Plant in Okazaki, Aichi Prefecture and the new SUVs for PSA Peugeot Citroën at its Mizushima Plant in Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. As production of the Europe-market Outlander shifts from Nagoya to NedCar, production of the new SUVs supplied to PSA Peugeot Citroën will be transferred from Mitsubishi Motors' Mizushima Plant to its Nagoya Plant.

The decision to make the above transfers has been taken in order to ease the strain on production capacity at the Mizushima Plant, thus avoiding any missed sales opportunities in view of the strong sales of Outlander in Europe and of the Lancer in markets worldwide.

Mitsubishi Motors' European production hub NedCar currently manufactures the Colt compact car, the company's best selling model in Europe. The company plans to produce Outlander at its NedCar plant until the model reaches the end of its life cycle.

* Galant Fortis in Japan

Source: http://media.mitsubishi-motors.com/pressrelease/e/corporate/detail1675.html

MITSUBISHI Concept-cX (Update)

2007-10-24T11:25:00.001-07:00

MITSUBISHI Concept-cX represents a new-generation compact SUV, realizing an ideal balance between environmental and everyday practical performance. The concept car uses a new high-output, high-efficiency 1.8-liter clean diesel engine, featuring a variable geometry (VG) turbocharger for optimum boost control and a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) with diesel particulate filter (DPF) in the exhaust system for compliance with Europe's Euro 5 emission standards. Mitsubishi's new Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission) adds superior power transmission efficiency for a powertrain that delivers nimble performance alongside excellent fuel economy and low emissions. Among the number of new environmental technologies applied in the Concept-cX is the extensive use of interior trim materials made from Mitsubishi's own Green Plastic — made from bamboo and other plant-based resins — in a step to stop global warming and slow the depletion of our oil reserves.

MITSUBISHI Concept-cX offers a number of proposals for better utility and road performance. Its high seating position expands the driver's field of view, providing the drivability expected in a SUV; the 4100 mm compact body makes for easy maneuvering around town; and the split tailgate — already well received on other Mitsubishi models — makes for easy loading and unloading of luggage. In the performance department, Concept-cX uses Mitsubishi's electronically controlled 4WD system driven through large 225/45R19 tires to deliver intuitive handling and outstanding stability on all road surfaces.

* 'Compact crossover' concept vehicle

More pictures:

More pics of the pressured Lancer Evolution X

2007-10-24T10:56:00.000-07:00

They said that the New Lancer Evolution is the most awaited vehicle this year. After the release, many mixed feedbacks were posted on the internet. I was drooling all over the car's design when the Prototype X was unveiled. Putting my eyes into this new four door saloon no longer gives me a spark. I am not a 4G63 purist, I am actually happy to hear that Mitsubishi now has two good engines for the tuner to work on. But the dual clutch system with paddle shifters is a shame. They could have done something like a clutch-less manual with a fake clutch pedal as an accessory so that manual users would shut up. The EVO X with a manual transmission comes with a five speed gearbox. The 6 speed should have been in the MR model and the paddle shifters for the GT-A version. But again, you can't judge the car by the way it looks. Okay, I must admit, I have no feelings for the car as of now, but I can still lust with it right? So here are the pictures...

More pictures:
CarView.co.jp

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X RALLIART

2007-10-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

The news leaked from Nihon Car where they got a chance to see the New Mitsubishi Evolution X RalliArt in the event they called Motor Sport Japan 2007. There is still no solid news with regard to the difference in performance but the RalliArt EVO X is obvious on the outside. Inside, there will be more carbon fiber materials. No news about the engine since some parts are still under development, well parts like the suspension.

While browsing from the RalliArt website, it is said that their version will have a lower ground clearance of 30 mm from the base Evolution. Shock absorber will be sourced by Bilstein and springs from Eibach.

Wheels: 18 x 8.5J offset +35
Tires:YOKOHAMA "ADVAN Neova" 245/40R18
Wheel Color: Black

Quoted from Nihon Car: Aside from the Ralliart graphics, the silver Evo appears to have gotten a set of 18-inch black rollers, what may be a different rear aerofoil and black wing mirrors. How much of this is destined for the show stand in Tokyo next month is open for debate, but it looks damn close to production trim to us.

Will update some news in the future.

Mitsubishi the first manufacturer to introduce "Preview Distance Control"?

2007-10-23T08:01:00.000-07:00

I went to have a glance through old press release from Mitsubishi and got interested about the Diamante's 3.0L V6 GDI engine. The press release mentioned something about Preview Distance Control which means when cruise control is engaged, the system uses radar recognition to monitor the distance to the vehicle ahead and regulates engine power and the automatic transmission to keep at a safe distance. After almost 10 years, the 2007 Mercedes Benz S-Class featured the same gadget found on the 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante SE-R. Mitsubishi also packaged other electronic aids such as TCL_*4 (Traction Control), ECS_*5 (Electronically Controlled Suspension), EPS_*6 (Electronically Controlled Steering). Moreover, the TCL or traction control system. This advance system incorporates Trace Control, which makes safer during cornering by optimally regulating engine power fractionally before the vehicle exceeds its cornering limit due to excess speed, and Slip Control, which helps the vehicle move off and accelerate more smoothly on slippery surfaces by regulating engine power to retain optimum tire grip.

I remembered Mr. Jeremy Clarkson reviewing the Diamante but I don't remember he mentioned something about the Preview Distance Control system. Oh well, I guess it's not offered in the European market.

Source: Mitsubishi Diamante Press Release