Gigi Galli for Stobart VK M-Sport Ford Rally Team in 2008

Stobart VK M-Sport Ford Rally Team has confirmed that Italian driver Gigi Galli will take over the slot previously held by Jari-Matti Latvala and join Henning Solberg and Matthew Wilson for the 2008 FIA World Rally Championship season.

Like his new team-mates, the Italian will compete on all 15-rounds of the series with the latest specification of the Ford Focus RS WRC.

Galli will be nominated permanently to score manufacturers' points while the second scoring driver position will be left open during the year.

The first man to fulfill this position at the first round of the 2008 season, Rallye Automobile Monte Carlo, will be Francois Duval.

The Belgian will be the fourth entrant at the event as he makes his first appearance on board a Focus RS WRC since he left Ford at the end of 2004.

"It's set to be another exciting year for the Stobart team after such a successful season this year. Jari-Matti's promotion to the BP-Ford Abu Dhabi team has left an opportunity for someone to join this very competitive squad and we are happy to announce that it will be Italian driver Gigi Galli. Gigi has a wealth of experience in the WRC and I'm sure will be a great asset for the team," said Team Principal Malcom Wilson. "Matthew and Henning will again be part of the Stobart team after some fantastic performances in the 2007 championship. The battle this year with Subaru came down to the final event in Wales and next year things are again looking strong for the Stobart squad."

MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER TAKES ON DAKAR 2008

MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER TAKES ON DAKAR 2008

* Outlander unveiled as official Team Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart support vehicle for Dakar 2008
* Outlander’s size, power, styling and versatility make it the ideal choice
* Long list of technical innovations in standard production cars adapt effortlessly to all types of conditions and terrain

The Mitsubishi Outlander has been selected to be the sole support vehicle[1] for Team Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart’s title defence in 2008. The modified Outlander will tackle the support vehicles’ route, which differs only slightly from the competing cars. These vehicles require a high degree of off-road ability to cross the challenging terrain of the region's vast, sandy and rocky expanses.

The 2008 Dakar Outlander has been modified to comply with ASO's[2] safety regulations and features four racing bucket seats with full harness belts, a safety roll-cage, an additional fuel tank, underbody protection, Bose dampers, navigational equipment, and a host of other features. The engine, running gear, and fundamental chassis architecture however remain identical to the standard production car.

It is finished in the full racing livery of the competition Pajero/Montero Evolutions and with a carrying capacity of up to 1,691 litres means that the four Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart team members and their luggage will be able to travel in comfort and safety throughout the two-week event.

The standard production vehicle comes complete with features such as active control of the four driven wheels, fully independent suspension, high performance brakes and a low centre of gravity which has been achieved in part by an aluminium roof which employs technology tested on Lancer Evolution IX.

Outlander calls on AWC (All Wheel Control) technology, the Mitsubishi-developed electronic 4x4 control system which allows drivers to choose between three modes to match the level of traction control to individual preferences and / or road conditions.

Mitsubishi’s 4x4 systems have been developed over the last 20 years in all terrain vehicles and racing pursuits, the Outlander demonstrates the advanced technological development of the AWC through the switch dial selection.


Main Technical Specifications (Standard Outlander 2.2 Di-D)
Outlander is one of the symbols of the renewal of Mitsubishi Motors' line-up and was the brand's first car to be built on Mitsubishi's “Project Global” architecture, together with the new Lancer family (incl. Lancer Evolution X). It is also packed with Mitsubishi's legendary expertise in the realm of four-wheel drive technology and in the UK is powered by a choice of 2.2 Di-D 156PS (diesel), 2.0 Di-D 140PS (diesel), 2.4 MIVEC 170PS (petrol) engines.

* 156 PS @ 4,000 rpm and 380 Nm @ 2,000 rpm
* From 39.2 mpg (combined cycle)
* From 191 g/km (combined cycle)
* 0-62 mph in 9.9 seconds
* 124 mph maximum speed
* AWC (All-Wheel-Control)
* 6-speed manual gearbox


[1] Dakar 2008 support vehicles (also known as Authorised Assistance Vehicles) are allowed to carry equipment and people to help keep full competition vehicles on the road. The weight and size of these items is not to be higher than the weight limit stated in the International Highway Code, so Outlander’s payload and volume capacity are key to its choice and success.

[2] The Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO) is the organiser of various major sporting events in addition to the Dakar Rally, including the Tour de France and Paris-Nice professional cycle road races.

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Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart gets ready for the Dakar

SHAKEDOWN TEST
17 December 2007

"ALL SYSTEMS GO"
FOR REPSOL MITSUBISHI RALLIART TEAM

The four cars which are due to spearhead the Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart Team’s 2008 Dakar bid successfully completed the special shakedown session which took place today at the squad's usual test venue in Marmagne, northwest of Macon, approximately 60km from its headquarters in Pont de Vaux, France.

All four crews braved the freezing weather to give their respective Pajero Montero Evolution MPR13s a final systems check before the vehicles are trucked to Lisbon, Portugal, in time for scrutineering and the official start of the African marathon which kicks off on January 5, 2008.
Luc Alphand/Gilles Picard (France), Hiroshi Masuoka/Pascal Maimon (Japan/France) and Stéphane Peterhansel/Jean-Paul Cottret (France) and Joan 'Nani' Roma/Lucas Cruz (Spain) all profited from the day to bed in a variety of mechanical parts and make a number of fine-tuning adjustments to their cars and seating positions round the maze of gravel tracks that make up the test base.

"Everything went perfectly smoothly," reported the Technical Director of Mitsubishi Motors Motor Sport (MMSP), Thierry Viardot. "The intention of today’s run wasn't to work on the set-up of the cars. That was done some time ago as a function of the results of the different test sessions organised during the year. Our objective was essentially to ensure there were no problems following the cars' build. Certain drivers were happy to call it a day after a brief drive, others spent longer at the wheel, but the exact distance covered by each crew was up to them. When you're talking about an event that lasts several thousand kilometres, it really wasn't a difference of a few of kilometres one way or the other today that will make a big difference once the competitive action begins next month.
"The beauty of the test facilities we use is that they offer a wide variety of surface types and we are free to make any changes we wish if we want to reproduce certain conditions,"concluded Viardot. "Another advantage is the fact that the tracks never get muddy, even it rains. However, with temperatures ranging from -6°C to -3°C today, that wasn't a problem this time!"
The shakedown session took place just days after the crews had completed their final physical fitness course of the year together. After their hike le Tour du Mont Blanc in July and a week of outdoor activities in Catalonia, Spain in November, this month's programme took them to the Thalasso Centre in Douarnenez, in Brittany, France, for a week of running, cycling, swimming, sauna and thalasso-therapy.

"It's always nice to get together off events but this sort of work is a vital part of our build-up to the Dakar," explained Luc Alphand's co-driver and former biker Gilles Picard. "The programme wasn't quite as intensive as it was the two other two times, and the sauna and thalasso-therapy were quite relaxing. That said, it was still sufficiently taxing to ensure we slept soundly each night!"
The 16-day 2008 Dakar starts in Lisbon on Saturday, January 5, and is scheduled to finish by the Lac Rose, near Dakar, Senegal, on Sunday, January 20.

-MMSP

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Mitsubishi Clean Diesel engines for the 2009 Dakar

MITSUBISHI’S HIGH PERFORMANCE CLEAN DIESEL ENGINES RACE FOR DAKAR SUCCESS

• Mitsubishi announces High Performance Clean Diesel engines to compete in Dakar 2009
• 2008 Dakar Pajero Evolution improved, even under new technical restrictions
• Mitsubishi’s CEO, Osama Masuko, looks for record-breaking 8th consecutive Dakar victory


Mitsubishi is preparing to defend its eight consecutive victories in the toughest endurance race on the planet, the Dakar 2008.

Mitsubishi’s CEO, Osama Masuko, has also announced that the event will be providing essential technical feedback for the all-new range of high performance clean diesel engines, which have been confirmed will make their debut at the Dakar in 2009.

Feedback on both durability and endurance data is essential for the manufacturer’s revolutionary development of clean diesel engines to be seen in a number of future production models.

The Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart Team has also been making final preparations for the 2008 event, with testing in Morocco and Tunisia. Even under the tight new performance handicap regulations of reduced engine air-restrictor and obligatory switch from six- to five-speed gear box, Masuko added that this work produced multiple gains in terms of transmission endurance, suspension and handling. As a result, the overall performance is even stronger than it was for the Dakar 2007.

Mitsubishi win honors in What Van?'s awards [UK]

OUTLANDER SEALS MITSUBISHI’S 4x4 COMMERCIAL VEHICLE CREDENTIALS AT WHAT VAN? AWARDS


• Mitsubishi Outlander Commercial wins What Van?’s ‘Best 4x4 Van’ award for 2007
• 4 wins in the last 7 years, and 2 runners up places since the award began in 2001

The Mitsubishi Outlander Commercial has been named ‘Best 4x4 Van’ at this year’s prestigious What Van? Awards, firmly establishing Mitsubishi as the 4x4 commercial vehicle supplier of choice, regardless of the job in hand.


What Van?’s Neil McIntee commented that the Outlander Commercial is “capable in the rough and user-friendly around town and on rural routes and high speed intercity runs”. He also noted that its specification, handling on-road and off-road and faultless reliability make it “a handy package for everybody from the construction site foreman to the local vet”.

The Outlander commercial costs just £16,999 CVLP , and has sold out across the UK in both car and commercial variants since launch in March 2007. Mitsubishi recently announced that it will be adding an additional 20,000 units of production to its Nedcar plant in Holland for 2008 to help satisfy UK and pan-European demand.


Toby Marshall, General Manager of Fleet & Used Car Sales at Mitsubishi collected the award, stating that “the Outlander’s easy-to-use four-wheel drive system and Active Stability Control make it a positive asset for corporate health and safety concerns, and with an mpg of 42.8 (combined) and an incredibly low CO2 rating of just 174g/km means that businesses can reduce their carbon footprint as well”.


MITSUBISHI CROWNED “TOP TRUCK” AT WHAT VAN? AWARDS


• Mitsubishi L200 wins What Van?’s ‘Best Pick-up’ award for 2007
• 11 wins in the last 15 years, plus 2 runners up prizes since the awards began in 1993
• Rugged and stylish off-roader proves its UK and global popularity


The Mitsubishi L200 has been named ‘Best Pick-up’ at this year’s prestigious What Van? Awards for the 11th time out of the last 15 years since the awards began.

What Van?’s Neil McIntee commented that the L200 was a good example of a “stylish, well equipped comfortable package… not lacking in punch around town or the motorway”. He also noted that it “is no slouch off-road either, fording streams and tackling muddy ascents and descents, and rutted boulder strewn tracks with ease”, which is exactly why small businesses, farmers, construction companies and Government Departments such as the Environment Agency have once again chosen the L200 for their businesses in 2007.

Toby Marshall, General Manager of Fleet & Used Car Sales at Mitsubishi stated that “it is an honour for us to receive this award as it firmly establishes the L200 as the clear favourite among commercial vehicle operators”.

Indeed, Mitsubishi offers the most comprehensive range of pick-up trucks from the entry level single cab at just £12,599 CVLP up to the range-topping Diamond double cab with automatic transmission at £22,249 CVLP.

The award, combined with Mitsubishi’s Thai production facility exporting its millionth L200 this year, sets the vehicle apart as a clear favourite in the UK and across Mitsubishi’s global markets.

MITSUBISHI Concept-RA at 08 NAIAS [US]

Mitsubishi Motors new "MITSUBISHI Concept-RA" to receive global premiere at 2008 Detroit Motor Show

MITSUBISHI Concept-RA (design sketch)

MITSUBISHI Concept-RA (design sketch)

Tokyo, November 27, 2007 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and Mitsubishi Motors North America Inc. (MMNA, based in Cypress California) will premiere MITSUBISHI Concept-RA to the world at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS or the Detroit Motor Show). MITSUBISHI Concept-RA fuses a passion for dynamic, exciting driving with a heightened sensitivity for the environment thanks to clean, efficient high performance diesel power. The 2008 NAIAS runs from January 13 to 27 at the Cobo Center in Detroit and opens to the general public on January 19.
MITSUBISHI Concept-RA shows that thrilling performance and environmental responsibility need not be mutually exclusive concepts. This coupe concept features the Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) vehicle dynamics control system driveline and the Twin Clutch SST automated manual transmission used in Lancer Evolution*1, is powered by a new high-output, high-efficiency clean diesel engine.

*1: Lancer Evolution X in Japan

The MITSUBISHI Concept-RA S-AWC driveline adds Active Steering and Active Damping control to the ACD*2, AYC*3, Sport ABS*4 and ASC*5 component systems that comprise 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. All this adds up to intuitive, on-demand vehicle behavior that faithfully reflects driver intent under all driving conditions, from everyday use to emergency avoidance situations.

MITSUBISHI Concept-RA is powered by a new high-efficiency, low-emissions 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbodiesel engine with MIVEC*6 continuously variable valve timing control. 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 (204 PS) and maximum torque of 420 Nm (42.8 kg-m). For compliance with U.S. emissions standards (Tier 2 Bin 5 emission regulations), the engine relies on a new catalytic converter system that brings together diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), NOx trap catalyst (NTC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) technologies. The new diesel engine will deliver exciting driving manners with a high degree of fuel efficiency.

For improved crashworthiness and to reduce vehicle weight MITSUBISHI 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.

*2: Active Center Differential
*3: Active Yaw Control
*4: Sport Antilock Brake System
*5: Active Stability Control
*6: Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system

A Mitsubishi Outlander in the 08 Dakar

Mitsubishi Motorsport



A MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER ON THE 2008 DAKAR...
Outlander's unique blend of power, styling and versatility makes it an ideal choice for modern, active families. Thanks to a long list of Mitsubishi technical innovations, it adapts effortlessly to all types of conditions and terrain. It is for this reason that Mitsubishi Motors has decided to enter an Outlander 2.2 DI-D as a Team Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart service vehicle on the 2008 Dakar.

Outlander is one of the symbols of the renewal of Mitsubishi Motors's line-up and the brand's first car to be built on Mitsubishi's Project Global architecture, together with the new Lancer family (incl. Lancer Evolution) and Delica D:5. Outlander is also packed with Mitsubishi's acclaimed expertise in the realm of four-wheel drive technology and is powered by a choice of 2.2 DI-D 156ps, 2.0 DI-D 140ps, 2.4 MIVEC 170 ps and 3.0 V6 220 ps engines.

Although the route for service vehicles on the Dakar will not cover the same challenging terrain as that faced by competing cars, it will still be necessary to have a certain degree of off-road ability to cross the region's vast, sandy and rocky expanses and possibly come through the odd complex predicament...

Like the Delica D:5 service vehicle which took part in the 2007, the 2008 Dakar Outlander has been built in compliance with ASO's safety regulations and features four bucket seats with harness belts, a safety roll-cage, an additional fuel tank, underbody protection, Bose dampers, navigational equipment, etc.

Outlander's carefully penned styling combines elegance with sporty lines which have contributed to making Outlander a genuine best-seller in Europe, and there is no doubt that its colourful livery will turn heads since it is identical to that of the competition Pajero/Montero Evolutions.

Indeed, in the light of Outlander's global success, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has decided to transfer the production of all European specifications Outlanders to its NedCar production hub in the Netherlands. Effective during the course of 2008, this move will consequently freed up capacity in Japan to meet the very high demand for Mitsubishi Motors newest products such as Outlander or Lancer in world markets.

Outlander's overall dimensions are smaller than those of comparable vehicles, while its versatility is enhanced by the availability of five-seater and five+two versions, plus a carrying capacity of up to 1,691 litres. Its modularity also means that the four Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart team members and their luggage will be able to travel in comfort and safely throughout the two-week event.

MAIN TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS (standard Outlander 2.2 DI-D)

* 156 ps (115 kW) @ 4,000 rpm and 380 Nm @ 2,000 rpm,
* From 7.2 l/100 km (combined cycle)
* From 191 g/km (combined cycle)
* 0-100 km/h: 9*9
* 200 km/h maximum speed (where legal)
* AWC (All-Wheel-Control),
* 6-speed manual gearbox,

Active mode

Although Outlander is happy to leave the role of out-and-out 4x4 to the Pajero/Montero, it still stands out as an uncompromising solution for drivers looking for a different kind of leisure vehicle.

It makes full use of the adaptability that has been dialled into the new MMC Project Global platform and offers a standard of active safety and driving pleasure equivalent to that of a saloon. This has been made possible thanks to features such as active control of the four driven wheels, fully independent suspension, high performance brakes and a low centre of gravity which has been obtained, in part, thanks to an aluminium roof which employs technology tested on Lancer Evolution IX.

Outlander calls on All-Wheel-Control technology, the Mitsubishi-developed electronic 4x4 control system which permits drivers to choose between three modes to match the level of traction control to individual preferences and/or road conditions.

The rear-mounted (but centrally operating) differential incorporates an electronically controlled coupler which uses predictive control to determine the optimal torque split between the front and rear wheels based on data received from the butterfly valve sensors, the vehicle's speed, the conditions, the type of road and driving style:

* In 2x2 mode, torque is delivered exclusively to the front wheels to ensure agility and enhanced fuel economy.
* In 4x4 AUTO mode, torque transfer is controlled to permit progress and steering on unsealed roads or in unfavourable road conditions.
* Finally, in 4x4 LOCK mode, torque is immediately available to the rear wheels which receive approximately 1 1/2 times more torque than in the normal 4x4 mode with a view to optimizing performance in very slippery conditions (ice/snow) or on dirt roads and tracks.

Changing from one mode to another is extremely simple and practical: all the driver has to do is turn the illuminated, easy-to-manipulate dial located between the front seats.

....OFFICIAL PHOTOS WITH LIVERY TO FOLLOW, STAY TUNED, CHECK BACK OFTEN....





-MMSP

Marcus Gronholm's crash in Rally Ireland

NATIONAL GRID CHOOSE L200 FOR NEW HI-TECH FACILITY [UK]

NATIONAL GRID CHOOSE L200 FOR NEW HI-TECH FACILITY


Mitsubishi’s award-winning L200 pick-up has again come out on top for its versatility and value by being chosen ahead of its rivals by National Grid.

Six L200 4Work Club-cab pick-ups were handed over last week at the energy transmission provider’s cutting-edge new liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility on the Isle of Grain near Rochester in Kent.

The vehicles will be used by the site’s supervisors to oversee the current construction work and subsequent operation of National Grid’s innovative new LNG import terminal, which will be able to meet 20 per cent of the UK’s future demand for imported liquefied natural gas by 2010/11.

After assessing vehicles from several manufacturers, National Grid concluded that Mitsubishi’s L200 offered the best solution to the varied demands likely to be encountered. This latest order adds to the company’s existing fleet of more than 100 Mitsubishis already in service, which includes more than 80 L200 pick-ups and 20 Shoguns.

On taking delivery of the new vehicles at the Isle of Grain site, Fleet Manager for National Grid Alistair Patterson said:

“Our LNG terminal is at the forefront of Britain’s future energy needs and the L200 is ideal to help our supervisors at this important stage in the development of this state-of-the-art facility. With four-wheel-drive it’s a versatile vehicle and capable of carrying engineers and their equipment across the varying terrain of the site.”

With L200s playing a major part in fulfilling its transport needs in other areas of its organisation, National Grid is confident that its latest fleet of L200s will offer its users other benefits, such as passenger comfort, reliability and low running costs.

Mr Patterson concluded: “The L200 came out on top for driver satisfaction and, together with Mitsubishi’s three-year/100,000-mile warranty package, represents excellent value for money.”

Commenting on the deal, Toby Marshall, General Manager - National Fleet and Used Car Sales of Mitsubishi Motors UK said, “We’re delighted that a leading British company such as National Grid continues to endorse the all-round abilities of the L200 with this latest addition to its fleet. In back-to-back tests, National Grid has confirmed what other fleet buyers have found, that the L200 is best in class for value, versatility and driver satisfaction.”

MITSUBISHI i CITY CAR – A RUN-AWAY SALES SUCCESS [UK]

MITSUBISHI i CITY CAR – A RUN-AWAY SALES SUCCESS


• Run-away sales success for Mitsubishi’s new i City Car
• First batch of 300 sold out in 2½ weeks – with 50% of second batch already sold
• 83% of sales are conquest business
• Compact size, price, specification, environmental credentials and styling are all top purchase reasons

Mitsubishi’s new i City Car has been a run-away success since it was launched in the UK in July 2007.

The first batch of 300 units sold out within two and a half weeks of going on sale, and over 50% of the second batch have been sold before the vehicles even hit UK soil. Over 1,500 units are already planned for sale in 2008, with more available if sales continue to be strong.

Mitsubishi has conducted extensive research of i’s customers, discovering that 83% of buyers were not previously Mitsubishi owners. They also surveyed the key factors influencing the purchase decision. The vehicle’s compact size was the most important factor, with price and high specification coming second. The car’s environmental credentials and styling were also rated in the top 5 reasons for the vehicle’s sales success.

Town and city dwellers accounted for 76% of buyers, predominantly in the South East of England where the threat of additional tax and Congestion Charges loom on the horizon.

Lance Bradley, Mitsubishi’s Sales and Marketing Director, remarked that “we have proven that Mitsubishi can successfully operate in multiple industry segments. The i has successfully showcased Mitsubishi’s environmental credentials in advance of a range of clean diesel vehicles and even the amazing zero-emission electric i in the next two years.”

New Outlander Special Edition [US]

New Outlander Special Edition [US]

A second 2.4-liter model, the new Outlander Special Edition arrives in early 2008. The Outlander SE combines the economy of the new 4-cylinder engine and CVT with amenities from the premium XLS model, plus exclusive new interior and exterior features. Driving performance in the Outlander SE is enhanced by Sportronic® shifting with magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters or console shift, as in the Outlander XLS model. Like the XLS model, the Outlander SE is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels. The FAST Key entry system, standard on LS and XLS models, is also standard on the Special Edition.

The Outlander Special Edition excels in onboard entertainment. Offered as standard, the 650-watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate® Premium Audio system features digital signal processing and nine speakers, including a rear subwoofer. This high-end audio package, which is optional on the Outlander XLS, includes SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with six month pre-paid subscription.

Exclusive to the Outlander 2.4 SE are new interior door panel trim and chrome door handles, chrome-accented exterior door handles and side sills, mesh fabric seats with leather bolsters, and high-contrast instrument gauges. Some Outlander SE features will be available on other Outlander models for 2009.

Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution wins UAE Desert Challenge 07

2007 FIA CROSS COUNTRY RALLY WORLD CUP
ROUND 5: UAE DESERT CHALLENGE
2 NOVEMBER 2007
LEG 5

A SIXTH CONSECUTIVE WIN FOR REPSOL MITSUBISHI RALLIART AS STEPHANE PETERHANSEL TRIUMPHS IN DUBAI


Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart today notched up a record eighth UAE Desert Challenge victory - and its sixth in as many years - as Stéphane Peterhansel/Jean-Paul Cottret (France) took their personal total to four wins on the event with the Mitsubishi Pajero/Evolution since 2002. The French pair overcame the extreme heat of the United Arab Emirates’ desert to take command on the penultimate leg and their perfectly paced run saw them beat Carlos Sainz by 11 minutes 56 seconds after more than 1,500km of competitive action.


Team-mates Luc Alphand/Gilles Picard (France) challenged constantly for the lead during the early part of the event. At the end of the third day, they emerged in front at the end but then retired with two stages remaining when they damaged their front-right suspension in a treacherous pothole on Thursday morning. Meanwhile, Joan ’Nani’ Roma/Lucas Cruz (Spain) were eliminated when the Spanish driver fell ill shortly after the start of Tuesday’s test and was unable to continue any further.

Stéphane Peterhansel believes much of his success today in Dubai was due to finding the ideal pace from the start and he steadfastly refused to be drawn into taking risks by trying to match the speed of his principal rivals. "We succeeded in keeping to the plan we adopted before the start and it ended up paying dividends," observed the Frenchman who has also won this event on two-wheels in addition to his four victories with Mitsubishi. "If you drive hard all the time, there’s obviously a chance that you can pull out a big lead but it automatically exposes you to greater risks, too. We were also helped this week by our Pajero/Montero Evolution. The MPR13 is a strong, well-sorted car that enables you to push as much as you like, even in the sort of heat we’ve had here all this week. It’s great to have won and today’s result is clearly a morale booster for the Dakar but nobody in the team has lost sight of the fact that the Dakar promises to be a long, tough event..."

In today’s slightly cooler and cloudier conditions, the objective of the French pair - who eased into the lead after Thursday’s drama-filled stage - was to control their cushion of more than nine minutes by staying on the heels of Nasser Al Attiyah while at the same time keeping a vigilant eye on their closest chaser Carlos Sainz who was running behind them in the order. "On today’s first 123km stage, the pace was still very fast and clearly nobody had any intention of giving up the fight. It wasn’t easy to find the ideal pace because there were still 287km of stages to complete and, as we saw on Thursday and Friday, nobody could afford to take anything for granted," explained co-driver Jean-Paul Cottret. "The first test went well though, so we kept to the same tactic for much of the final stage which was slightly longer; just over 160km. When we saw Nasser stopped at Km128, however, we decided to lift because even if Carlos managed to pass us there was little chance he could bridge the gap"

After completing the final stage of the six-day, 2,210km event, which was essentially based in the southern part of the United Arab Emirates desert, close to the border with Saudi Arabia, Stéphane and Jean-Paul covered the short road section for this afternoon’s official prize-giving ceremony at the Dubai International Marine Club.

Mitsubishi L200s take leading role with BAA [UK]

Mitsubishi L200s take leading role with BAA

Mitsubishi L200 "Triton"

Britain’s largest UK airport operator BAA has recently chosen Mitsubishi’s award-winning L200 pick-ups as its ‘leader vehicles’ for Heathrow airport, where they can be seen carrying out a variety of duties on the airfield perimeters and runways.

Operated by Heathrow’s airside operations department, the L200’s primary role is to escort aeroplanes to and from the runways to their stands. The vehicles are also intended to enable staff to carry out various airfield checks, such as observing surface conditions and collecting debris.

The vehicles are likely to be in use almost around the clock and, to ensure high visibility, all have been painted bright yellow and had light bars fitted to the roof.

A spokesman for Heathrow said: “After considering a number of vehicles, the Mitsubishi L200 was chosen primarily because it is available with an excellent automatic and four-wheel-drive transmission system. We have tried using other manual gearbox vehicles before, but these have proved to be unreliable.”

He added: “As each one covers approximately 25,000 miles per year – with different drivers – reliability is a very important factor for us, as vehicle down-time can be very disrupting to the operation of the airfield.”

In addition to the mechanical capabilities of the L200, BAA were also impressed with the fuel consumption and emissions achieved, which was another key feature in its decision to purchase Mitsubishi pick-ups.

This latest order brings the number of Mitsubishis in operation at Heathrow, by far the most demanding of all UK airports, up to 45. Toby Marshall, General Manager – National Fleet and Used Car Sales for Mitsubishi Motors UK said:

“This recent deal with BAA is a great endorsement for Mitsubishi. This now means we have vehicles operating at every major commercial airport in the UK – you could say that Mitsubishis have really taken off with the airport industry.”

BAA has found the L200s so ideal for its airside operations, it has just ordered another six.

Specifics for the 08 Outlander [US]

October 31, 2007 -- CYPRESS, Calif. --

*07 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS shown

The Outlander, Mitsubishi's compact SUV, has exciting additions for the 2008 model line up. A 168 hp, 2.4L 4-cylinder MIVEC engine replaces the V6 in the ES model and is combined with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This model is a smart choice for consumers entering the market who want a value-priced compact SUV with plenty of power and space to take along family and cargo. (Late fall availability.)

Always looking to be ahead of the game, this year Mitsubishi will be the first automotive manufacturer to have exclusive entry and exit carpool/high occupancy vehicle routing added to the XLS HDD Navigation Package. This feature will allow drivers to tailor the route based on carpool lanes, making a freeway driving experience more enjoyable.

Line-Up:
Outlander ES 2WD 2.4-Liter DOHC MIVEC 16-valve, 4 cyl: CVT (INVECS-III)
Outlander ES 4WD 2.4-Liter DOHC MIVEC 16-valve, 4 cyl: CVT (INVECS-III)
Outlander LS 2WD 3.0-Liter SOHC MIVEC 24-valve, 6 cyl: 6AT (INVECS-II)
Outlander LS 4WD 3.0-Liter SOHC MIVEC 24-valve, 6 cyl: 6AT (INVECS-II)
Outlander XLS 2WD 3.0-Liter SOHC MIVEC 24-valve, 6 cyl: 6AT (INVECS-II)
Outlander XLS 4WD 3.0-Liter SOHC MIVEC 24-valve, 6 cyl: 6AT (INVECS-II)

Changes for 2008:

Exterior:

* New design for the XLS 18" alloy wheel
* Heated door mirrors for 4WD models
* Keyless remote fob for ES
* New style FAST-keyless entry & starting system for LS & XLS
* Color-key door handles for LS (Package for ES)
* Two new colors: Manitoba Green Metallic (XLS) and Rally Red Metallic (ES & LS)
* "V6" Badge added to the front fenders on LS & XLS models
* "PZEV" decal added to the windows on LS & XLS models
* Phoenix Red and Aqua Green Metallic exterior hues discontinued

Interior:

* Restyled door panels with inserts
* MP3/Auxillary stereo input jack on LS & XLS (Package on ES)
* Chrome door levers on XLS
* Cargo area utility side rails deleted
* Second Row seat sliding function deleted on ES and LS models
* XLS third-row seat headrest hole eliminated

Additional Mechanical or Content Enhancements:

* 168hp, 2.4L 4-cylinder DOHC MIVEC engine for ES (late fall launch)
* Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for ES
* Diamond Lane Guidance added to HDD Navigation Package on XLS
* 115-volt power outlet added to Sun & Sound Package for XLS
* New Convenience Package for ES
* 16-inch alloy wheels
* Roof rails (black)
* Privacy glass tint (rear door, quarter, tail gate)
* Color-key outer door mirrors and handles
* Leather-wrap steering wheel
* Leather-wrap shift knob
* Steering wheel audio controls
* Bluetooth® hands-free phone pre-wired
* MP3/Auxiliary stereo input jacks
* 12V power outlet (Cargo x1 /Cockpit x1)
* Seat back pocket (driver side)
* Floor mats

-MMNA

Mitsubishi Motors Employee Gary Ragle Selected as One of Seven Winners in First-Ever Hot Wheels® Designer's Challenge™

October 30, 2007 -- Cypress, Calif. --
Toy manufacturer Mattel has announced that Mitsubishi Motors Research and Design of America (MRDA) employee Gary Ragle is among seven designer finalists to be selected in the company's first-ever Hot Wheels® Designer's Challenge™. MRDA was among six automotive manufacturers to participate in the challenge, which marked the first time Hot Wheels® has turned outside the company to seek new vehicle designs.

Mitsubishi Double Shotz

Created to represent the ultimate Mitsubishi vehicle and the spirit of the brand's future, the sleek design of Ragle's Mitsubishi Double Shotz celebrates the 4G63 engine and the Lancer Evolution. "The design takes the concept of the Lancer Evolution to the next level and ties it in with the enjoyment and imagination of the Hot Wheels® brand," said Ragle.

Mitsubishi Double Shotz

After being selected by a panel of judges that included editors from the Los Angeles Times, Car and Driver, and Men's Journal, along with Hot Wheels® designers and executives, the designs were unveiled at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas on October 30th, 2007. The Hot Wheels® Designer's Challenge™ product line will be available in stores in the spring of 2008.

Mitsubishi Double Shotz Concept [US]

New Program Marks First Time Mattel Has Invited Outside Designers to Bring Their Automotive Fantasies to Life with an Original Hot Wheels® Car

Mitsubishi Double Shotz Concept

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. (October 30, 2007) - Hot Wheels® announced today its first-ever Designer's Challenge™, inviting designers from leading automotive manufacturers the chance to design and create an original Hot Wheels® vehicle. The Designer's Challenge™ was created as a way for Hot Wheels® to honor its automotive partners and have them actively participate in the die-cast brand's 40th anniversary celebration in 2008. The selected designs will be the basis of a new 40th anniversary Designer's Challenge™ product line, which will hit store shelves in spring 2008.

"This is the first time in Hot Wheels history that we've turned outside the company to seek new car designs; and who better to go to than our automotive partners who have been a part of Hot Wheels history for the last 40 years?" said Geoff Walker, vice president, Wheels marketing, Mattel Brands. "We couldn't be more thrilled with the results of this program, and we're anxious to see the designs come to life as 1:64-scale models on store shelves next spring."

Automotive manufacturer participants in the Hot Wheels® Designer's Challenge™ - Dodge, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Lotus and Mitsubishi - were tasked with designing a car that captured the die-cast brand's core essence of speed, power, performance and attitude, while also encompassing the distinct attributes of each company's automotive brand values. In addition, each car had to be able to perform a loop on classic Hot Wheels® orange track. The top three designs from each automotive manufacturer were selected and presented to a panel of judges that included editors from the Los Angeles Times, Car and Driver, and Men's Journal, along with Hot Wheels® designers and executives.

The designs selected for the Hot Wheels® Designer's Challenge™ line include:

* Dodge XP-07 (Dodge, designed by Mark Reisen)
* Gangster Grin™ (Ford, designed by Steve Gilmore)
* Chevroletor (General Motors, designed by Amaury Diaz-Serrano)
* Honda Racer (Honda, designed by Guillermo Gonzalez)
* Lotus Concept (Lotus, designed by Steven Crijns)
* Mitsubishi Double Shotz (Mitsubishi, designed by Gary Ragle)
* HW-40™ (Hot Wheels®, designed by Jun Imai)

The Designer's Challenge™ designs will be unveiled during a press conference at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas on October 30, 2007 at 10 a.m. PT. Items on display will include a sketch of the top design from each manufacturer, as well as 1:5 scale and 1:64 scale models of each design.

Mitsubishi Double Shotz Concept

-Mattel, MMNA