In the dynamic world of automotive engineering, few names resonate as profoundly as Mitsubishi Motors. With a rich heritage spanning over a century, Mitsubishi Motors has evolved from its humble beginnings as a shipbuilding company to become a global powerhouse in the automotive industry. Mitsubishi Motors’ history is a tale of innovation, perseverance, and a relentless commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on four wheels.
Let’s go back in time and rewind the evolution of Mitsubishi Motors from its first car launch in 1917.
Timeline of Mitsubishi Motors Since Its Establishment
Mitsubishi Motors, a subsidiary of the Mitsubishi Group, has a long and storied history that dates back over a century. Here’s a detailed overview of the key milestones in the history of Mitsubishi Motors.
1917 to 1960: Beginning of Mitsubishi Motors
Mitsubishi’s journey into the automotive industry started in 1917 when the company produced its first series-production passenger car, the Mitsubishi Model A. This car was Japan’s first mass-produced vehicle and marked the official entry of Mitsubishi into the automotive market.
In 1936, Mitsubishi Motors launched the prototype of the PX33 model, a four-wheel drive car. However, it didn’t go under mass production due to the World War II breakout. After the World War II ended, Mitsubishi Motors history saw the following vehicles and motorcycles launched:
- Mizushima, a three-wheel truck, debuted in 1946
- Silver Pigeon Scooter unveiled in 1946
- The first-ever Mitsubishi Jeep with a soft top and doors launched in 1953
- A three-wheel K-truck named Leo that can seat two inside the cabin debuted in 1959
1960 to 1970: Mitsubishi Motors’ Kick-Start
During the 1960s, the company’s focus was primarily on domestic sales during this period. The company introduced the Mitsubishi 500 in 1960. In 1962, This small compact car got 1st, 2nd and 3rd position in the Macao Grand Prix in its class.
This decade in Mitsubishi’s history saw many new mass-produced cars, such as the following:
- Mitsubishi 360
- Colt 600
- Minica
- Colt 1000 and Colt 1000F
- Colt 800
- Debonair
- Colt 1100
- Minicab Truck/Van
- Delica Truck and Delica Van
- Colt Galant
Furthermore, the Colt 1000 went on to win the Japan Grand Prix in 1964, and the Colt 1000F got 4th place in the Southern Cross Rally in 1967. These Mitsubishi old models can be seen around various auto shows across the world.
1970 to 1980: Launch of the Popular Models
In this decade, Mitsubishi Motors launched several popular models. The company unveiled the Galant GTO, the successor to the Colt 1000. Colt F2000 won the 1st spot in the 1971 Japan Grand Prix. After the launch of Lancer in this decade, the Lancer 1600GSR won several Southern Cross Rally and WRC Safari Rally races during this decade.
Additionally, Mitsubishi continued to launch new car models, including the first generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer’s history. Mitsubishi Motors history saw the following car models during this decade:
- Minica F4 and Minica Skipper
- Minicab EL Truck
- Jeep J-58
- Mirage
- Forte
- Lancer EX
During this era, Mitsubishi Motors made a breakthrough by designing a Silent Shaft engine and licenced its patents to Porsche, Fiat and Saab.
1980 to 1990: Entry into the American Market
After strengthening its position in the domestic market, Mitsubishi Motors entered into the American automotive market. While continuing to win Rallys, Mitsubishi launched Pajero in 1983. With a rich history of Mitsubishi Pajero, the brand became even more popular among off-road enthusiasts. However, rumours say that the Mitsubishi Pajero was discontinued in 2022.
Mitsubishi Pajero won several Dakar Rally races, whereas Galant became the WRC Rally and 1000 Lakes Rally champion in 1989. Besides, the following car models debuted from 1980 to 1990 in the Mitsubishi Motors history:
- Debonair V
- Station Wagon model of Lancer and Mirage
- Chariot
- Eterna
- Magna Station wagon
Mitsubishi Motors’ history saw a remarkable innovation as the brand engineered the first-ever turbo-diesel engine with Silent Shaft Technology.
1990 to 2000: Introduction of New Technology
It’s an interesting fact about Mitsubishi Motors that the brand launched several popular car models. Moreover, the auto brand innovated and engineered many automotive solutions. Speaking of that, Mitsubishi engineered the first-ever electronically controlled traction control system in 1992.
Mitsubishi Motors’ INVEC System Adaptive Shift Control became the Technology of the Year. Meanwhile, the brand also designed the Mivec technology to maximise fuel efficiency and the car’s performance. Mitsubishi Motors launched the world’s first Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine.
Mitsubishi Motors launched the iconic 3000GT in 1990. It went on to become the export car of the year. Furthermore, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution won many Rallys. In 1999, the Mitsubishi FTO-EV prototype earned a Guinness World Record. It became the first electric car to travel 2,000 kilometres in 24 hours,
2000 to 2010: Advancements in EV Technology
This decade began with the launch of the 4th generation Mitsubishi Eclipse. Moreover, Lancer won the Automobile of the Year award. Mitsubishi Outlander’s history began in 2005. The SUV became one of the most popular SUVs. You can explore the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander model.
The decade came to an end with a remarkable launch. After 40 years of research, development and prototype testing, Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle (i-MiEV) debuted in multiple markets worldwide.
2010 to Present: A Century to Mtsubishi’s Beginning
Mitsubishi continued to focus on electric and hybrid cars, launching the Mitsubishi i-MiEV in 2009, one of the first electric cars to enter mass production. In 2013, they introduced the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, a plug-in hybrid vehicle that gained popularity for its efficient and environmentally friendly design.
The brand adopts greener and sustainable technology with EVs and hybrid vehicles. Moreover, Mitsubishi envisions the next 100 years to engineer more connected cars.
FAQs
Who Owns Mitsubishi Motors?
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. holds the largest share of Mitsubishi Motors at 34%, and Mitsubishi Motors is part of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. This alliance gives Nissan a controlling stake in Mitsubishi Motors.
Why is Mitsubishi Famous?
Mitsubishi is famous due to its innovations and legacy in rally races. It is also popular for its off-road vehicles, such as Pajero and Outlander. The Pajero is one of the most popular used Japanese SUVs in the UAE.
Furthermore, the Mitsubishi Lancer is a popular used Japanese car in the UAE. That shows the legacy of this Japanese automotive brand.
What Does the Mitsubishi Logo Mean?
Mitsubishi Motors has one of the most meaningful car logos, featuring three diamonds, symbolising the company’s core values: integrity, reliability, and success. Moreover, the word Mitsubishi is a combination of two Japanese words: “Mitsu” (three) and “Hishi” (diamond).
Mitsubishi Motors’ history is one of the remarkable ones. The brand became one of the pioneers in electric cars and laid the foundation for efficient and effective technology. You can compare Mitsubishi models and rally cars with other brands and find out how they ousted every competitor in racing events. Besides, you can look for new and used Mitsubishi cars in the UAE since it is one of the most popular Japanese car makers.
Keep reading the dubizzle cars blog and learn about the rich history of automotive brands and technology.
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