Restructuring of Production Capability in the Philippines

Restructuring of Production Capability in the Philippines

TOKYO, March 31, 2014 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announced that Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation* (MMPC) has acquired a factory site from FORD MOTOR COMPANY (PHILIPPINES), INC. located in Laguna (Laguna Province). Following the relocation of MMPC's current headquarters/factory in Cainta (Rizal Province) to this site, vehicle production is set to begin in January 2015.

* Mitsubishi Motors' producer and distributor in the Philippines.

MMC has operated production and sales in the Philippines for many years and has grown continuously along with the automobile market development of the country, becoming the first car manufacturer in the country to achieve a cumulative production volume of 500,000 units. The move this time to relocate MMPC's headquarters/factory and reform its production capability reflects MMC's will to prepare for its further growth in the promising Philippine market.

One major pillar of MMC's New Stage 2016 next mid-term business plan, which is to start from April 2014 is to reinforce its production base in ASEAN countries. Strengthening local production capability in the Philippines will be a part of that pillar. With the long history of operation rooted in the market, MMC has successfully attained high market share in the country. Moving forward, MMC plans to expand its presence in the Philippines by further strengthening its operating base in the country through various measures including but not limited to the restructuring of its production capability this time.


Outline of MMPC (Mitsubishi Motors Philippines)

Established: May 1972
Headquarters: Cainta, Rizal Province
Capital: 1.64 billion PHP
Scope of operations: Production and sales of MMC vehicles
Representative: Hikosaburo Shibata, President
Stockholders: MMC 51%, Sojitz Corporation 49%
Production capacity: 30,000 units/year
Product lineup:
-Philippine-made: Lancer EX, Adventure, L300
-Thailand-made: Mirage, Mirage G4 (Attrage in some markets), Montero Sport (Pajero Sport or Nativa in some markets), L200, Strada (Triton in some markets)
-Japan-made: ASX (Outlander Sport or RVR in some markets), Montero (Pajero in some markets)
Market share/2013CY sales: 20.5%/42,360 units

Mitsubishi Motor Philippines Collaborates with DOE and Meralco on i-MIEV Evaluation

Mitsubishi Motor Philippines Collaborates with DOE and Meralco on i-MIEV Evaluation

Mitsubishi Motors Phils. Corp. (MMPC) is pleased to announce that an Electric Vehicle or EV Cooperation Agreement with the Department of Energy (DOE) and MERALCO is underway which mainly covers the use of Mitsubishi Motors’ zero emission electric car the i-MiEV (i-Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle), for evaluation and demonstration purposes.  MMPC will be the first auto manufacturer to bring in a pure electric car in the country given that its principal Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is in the forefront of EV development.

This collaboration project will entail MMPC to lend demo cars of i-MiEV to both DOE and MERALCO for the purpose of studying EV’s behaviors and performance when utilized in Metro Manila in various conditions, and also examine the impact to power system when EV is charged.  The outcome of the evaluation will enhance the understanding of EV and determine the requirements of supporting charging infrastructure.  It will also be a preparatory step toward the possible future introduction and create greater public awareness of electric vehicles.
The ceremonial turnover was staged at the 2nd Electric Vehicle Summit 2012 wherein MMPC President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Hikosaburo Shibata presented to DOE Secretary Jose Almendras, and MERALCO President Manuel Pangilinan the first i-MiEV unit to be used under this EV Cooperation Agreement.  MMPC was also invited as a resource company in this EV Summit to provide an overview of Mitsubishi Motors EV business being in the forefront of EV development  

Mr. Hikosaburo Shibata said that “This collaboration project is just timely given the various challenges the automobile is facing today which includes environmental pollution, global warming and the rising cost and depletion of petroleum-based energy supplies.”  Shibata added that “We are pleased to be the first auto manufacturer in the Philippines to collaborate with DOE and MERALCO to evaluate the potential role of electric vehicles in the society and also addressing environment issues.”

The EV Summit is part of the continuous effort of the government, non-government organizations and private sectors on the promotion and development of green vehicles such as electric vehicles, in response to the significant environmental and economic demands.

Organizing this summit are the Department of Trade and Industry, Manila Economic and Cultural Office, Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines, Meralco, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities and Partnership for Clean Air. This will be held on May 24 to 25, 2012 at the Meralco Multipurpose Hall.  The theme is “Mobilizing the Region in Electric Vehicle Promotion and Development.

About the i-MIEV

Launched by Mitsubishi Motors in 2009, the i-MiEV as the ultimate eco-car, a solution to the various challenges the automobile faces today including environmental pollution, global warming and the depletion of petroleum-based energy supplies. Aside from being environmentally friendly, the i-MiEV is also very economical since the cost per kilometer to drive the i-MiEV is one third of a comparable gasoline vehicle.  Cost per kilometer can drop of up to one ninth of that of gasoline depending on the cost of electricity.  Charging the i-Miev is very convenient since it can be charged anywhere with electric power source.  There are two ways of charging this car such as using a normal 220-volt outlet and a quick charger.  It takes about 7 hours to charge on a 220 volt and 30 minutes for the quick charger to charge up to 80% of battery capacity once the battery is almost empty.

 With its zero carbon dioxide tailpipe emissions and minimal well-to-wheel generation of carbon dioxide, the i-MiEV makes a valuable contribution to climate protection which also made it to be the recipient of the “Environment Special Grand Prize” at the 25th International Automobile festival in Paris.

To date, the i-MiEV is now selling in many countries and regions all over the world, including Japan, Europe, Hong Kong, Australia, Estonia and in the United States and Canada sales of i-MiEV started last year. In Japan, the i-MiEV has been in the market since July 2009 and it was later launched in Europe by the end of 2010.  Since then Mitsubishi Motors has sold around 4,000 units in Japan and has exported a total of over 10,000 units.   Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is collaborating with other countries like the Principality of Monaco, Iceland, Denmark, Singapore, Thailand and others in their efforts to popularize EVs.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines tops May auto industry sales [PH]

MANILA, Philippines - Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) recorded outstanding sales of 3,117 units sold making it the number 1 automotive manufacturer last month, attaining 28.6% market share. MMPC’s May 2011 sales accounts for a double digit growth of 15.3% compared to the same month last year, while year to date figures registered an increase of 9.1% with 14,062 units sold compared to 12,891 units sold same period last year.

Combined reports from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI) and Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) showed that MMPC was also able to dominate the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment registering a 39% market share.

MMPC to sponsor Bernabe Concepcion [PH]

MMPC to sponsor Bernabe Concepcion [PH]

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) is pleased to announce its sponsorship to the upcoming Filipino boxer Bernabe "Abe" Concepcion. This young 22 year old boxer has a record of 32 fights with 28 wins of which 15 were by Knock-out, 3 loses and 1 draw. With this young boxer's skills and determination MMPC sees potential in him to be the next boxing superstar following the footsteps of Manny Pacquiao. MMPC will be providing funds for Abe's training and for his fight expenses. A contract signing was recently held at the MMPC office located in Cainta, Rizal. This was attended by Mitsubishi Executives Mr. Orlando F. Alvarez, Jr. - SVP for Marketing and Treasury (third from left) and Mr. Dante Santos - FVP for Sales and Marketing (first from left). Abe Concepcion expressed his gratitude to institutions like MMPC who nobly believes and supports Filipino athletes.

Abe Concepcion's match for the WBO Featherweight World Championship title versus Puerto Rican Juan Manuel Lopez is scheduled on July 10, 2010 in Puerto Rico.

"In as many ways as possible, we at MMPC, would like to give support to deserving Filipinos to achieve their dreams and give glory to this country. And promoting sports among the youth helps us contribute in this corporate social responsibility." Mr. Alvarez said.

Special Inspection Recall Campaign for Mitsubishi Strada and Montero Sport [PH]

Special Inspection Recall Campaign for Mitsubishi Strada and Montero Sport (Philippines)

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) recently announced to the Department of Trade and Industry that it will have a special inspection recall of Mitsubishi Strada pick up models which were sold from September 2006 to June 2009 and for Mitsubishi Montero Sport 3.2 GLS and GLS SE 4x4 A/T models sold from September 2008 to February 2009.

The special inspection recall is to check the proper tightening torque of the mounting bolts of the upper suspension arm. The reason for the insufficient initial tightening torque could be caused by possible mis-aligned holes of the two metal sheets of the front upper arm. The inspection procedure is estimated to take 2 hours at the most.

MMPC signs lease for future Mitsubishi Dealership with Subic Bay Development Corp [PH]

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines and Carworld Inc. sign 50 year lease agreement with Subic Bay Development Management Corp.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp., on its commitment to be within every customer's reach, together with one of its authorized dealers Carworld Inc. (CWI) recently signed a 50-year Lease Term Agreement with the Subic Bay Development Management Corp. (SBDMC). CWI Chairman of the Board, Mr. Liberato P. Laus and Mr. Jef Lin, President of SBDMC signed the lease contract of the property located along Rizal and Argonaut Highways, the future site of a full Mitsubishi Motors dealership. Carworld Subic once completed, will provide a modern showroom and service facility convenient to Bataan and Zambales residents.

Also present to witness this event were MMPC and CWI executives (From Left): Mr. Bayani Santiago- Senior Manager for Dealer Development of MMPC, Mr. Francisco B. Zafra - VP for Customer Service of MMPC, Mr. Romy Sanchez FVP of CWI Sales and Marketing, Mr. Dante C. Santos VP for Vehicle Sales of MMPC, Mr. Frank de Jesus - President of CWI, Mr. Alfie Adriano - VP and Deputy CFO of CWI, Atty. Rex Malig Legal Counsel for CWI, Mr. Mark Medina - AVP for Vehicle Sales of MMPC, and Mr. Sonny David - CWI's Exec. Asst.

The new Mitsubishi Motors showroom and service center is expected to be completed by December 2010.

2010 Mitsubishi Galant SE [PH]

2010 Mitsubishi Galant SE [PH]



Mitsubishi Motors Philippines (MMPC) further adds excitement to its vehicle line-up as it introduces the new 2010 Mitsubishi Galant SE. Exuding class and sophistication, the all-new Galant is loaded with stylish and high tech features that best suit an executive car. MMPC's President and CEO, Mr. Masahiko Ueki said that "The intro of the all-new Galant reinforces MMPC's passenger car lineup and gives us the opportunity to improve further our total passenger car market share."

MMPC announces availability of new 3.2L 4x4 and 4x2 Stradas (Triton L200) [PH]

Mitsubishi Strada 3.2 4x4 and Strada 4x2 Now Available



Strada 3.2 GLS Sport 4x4

The Strada 4x4 GLS Sport will now be offered with the much awaited 3.2 liter engine option. The 4M41 engine produces 160Ps at 3,800 rpm and 35 Kg-m of torque at 2,000 rpm and it is equipped with a DOHC 16-valve cylinder head. Precise fuel delivery is made possible through the Direct Injection Diesel with Hyper Common Rail and it made more efficient and powerful through turbocharging and intercooling.


The 3.2L DI-D Engine

The new engine can either be matched to a 5-speed manual transmission or to an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic with overdrive and the rear differential now has a hybrid limited slip mechanism that is standard for the 3.2 liter GLS Sport. Either transmission delivers driving power through the Easy Select 4WD system. This rally proven four wheel drive system enables the driver to choose three drive modes namely. “2H” for smooth, paved highways, “4H” for wet and slippery surfaces, and “4LLc” for rough tracks. Users can also shift on the fly from “2H” to “4H” and back even while traveling at speeds up to 100 km/h.

The 3.2 4x4 GLS Sport will also have the same features as the current 2.5 4x4 GLS model which offers top-of-its-class comfort and convenience due to all-power amenities including the stylish dashboard, the first of its class 3-mode opening slide vent window, high grade sport fabric seat, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knobs, silver-painted center and power window control panels, auto climate control, and a multi-information display monitor. Other amenities are high contrast meter cluster with silver accent rings, an FM/AM Single in-dash CD/MP3 player that is iPod ready via its USB interface, ignition key cylinder illumination, door courtesy lamps, and a host of useful and convenient compartments.

The 3.2 4x4 GLS Sport and 2.5 4x4 GLS models can only be distinguished by the higher wheel profile as the GLS Sport is equipped with muscular 265/70R16 profile tires versus the latter’s 245/70R16’s. Also only the 3.2 4x4 GLS Sport will have ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution or EBD, should the need for evasive maneuvering arises from emergency braking. Dual SRS front airbags, and tailgate mounted third brake lamp are standard safety items on both Strada 3.2 4x4 GLS Sport and 2.5 4x4 GLS.


Strada 3.2 GL 4x2

Other variants to be introduced to the market will be the Strada GL and the Strada GLX 4x2. These two wheel drive Stradas look exactly the same like its 4-wheel drive brother. The 4x2 Strada is equipped with the new 2.5 liter 4D56 Mitsubishi Direct Injection Diesel with Hyper Common Rail DOHC 16-valve Turbo Intercooled engine. Mitsubishi Motors has used the bore and stroke of the proven and reliable 4D56 engine and strengthened its internal components to withstand the additional power that results from the DOHC, 16-valve and Direct Injection Hyper Common Rail System. Maximum power output from this 2.5 liter engine is at 136PS @ 3,500 rpm and maximum torque is 314 N-m @ 2,000 rpm. The adoption of the DI-D Common Rail system enables the all-new Strada to deliver high output, flatter torque curve, low fuel consumption, clean emissions, and quiet operation. This new Direct Injection Diesel Common Rail engine is already Euro-2 compliant and is properly matched with the current diesel fuel in the country.

Inside the spacious cabin, the Strada 4x2 is equipped with power windows, central locking, high contrast instrument meters, CD player with FM/AM tuner stereo, and high grade sport-type fabric seats to name a few. Meantime, 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels fitted on 205/80R profile tires, front fog lamps, chrome features such as side mirrors and outside and inside door handles, side step board, high mount stop lamp on the rear bed plus dual airbags can be found on the GLX 4x2 model. The Strada GL model is targeted more towards fleet companies which prefers the same looks as the 4x4 model.

The all-new Strada will be available starting this August at all Mitsubishi dealers nationwide and will be available in 5 variants. The suggested retail prices (in Philippine Pesos) are as follows:

Strada 2.5 GL 4x2 M/T Php 833,000

Strada 2.5 GLX 4x2 M/T 908,000

Strada 2.5 GLS 4x4 M/T 1,110,000

Strada 2.5 GLS Sport 4x4 M/T 1,230,000

Strada 2.5 GLS Sport 4x4 A/T 1,280,000

Colors available are Deep Black Mica, Cool Silver, Fairy White, Titanium Gray Mica, Majestic Red, and Medium Blue Mica.

Mitsubishi Fuzion TV Ad [PH]

Mitsubishi Fuzion TV Ad [PH]

All-New Mitsubishi Fuzion (Zinger) for the Philippine market

All New Mitsubishi Fuzion

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines further reinforces its vehicle line-up with the addition of the all new FUZION Sport Wagon. As with the word fusion, the all new FUZION merges together the best characteristics of 3 vehicles, the sporty character and ruggedness of an SUV, the spaciousness and versatility of a van, and riding comfort of a passenger car. It’s the new 3 in one!


Mitsubishi Fuzion (marketed as "Zinger" in Taiwan)


Mitsubishi developed the all new FUZION to address 6 user needs:

1. Multi-purpose use

When the FUZION was conceptualized, Mitsubishi Motors emphasized features flexibility to satisfy the various needs of the consumers. 3rd row seats were installed to accommodate more passengers for the extended Filipino family and for increased load space for commercial needs. The FUZION has configurable seats from the second to the 3rd row. They can be folded or tumbled to suit various passenger and cargo loading requirements.

2. Sophisticated SUV-inspired styling

The Mitsubishi SUV DNA is evident in the way the FUZION stands tall and proud. It can be seen in the front face that features large and stylish headlamps and front fascia. Its side accentuates refined SUV sportiness and toughness of expressed by a wedge-style belt line and by its flared wheel well. At the rear of the body, the tail lamps have a passenger car-style horizontal design that combines with a tailgate garnish to convey a sense of stability. This styling line can also be discerned in the Outlander, Front and rear under-guard garnishes further emphasize its SUV styling.

3. Modern interior design

The FUZION’s exterior is complemented by an interior with futuristic relaxing wavy lines, fresh color schemes and textures brought together in way to express quality and utility. The meters have bright blue illumination that gives them a futuristic look, and the steering wheel and floor console have silver-colored accents that add a taste of sportiness. The instrument panel and door trim have two-tone coloring whose contrasting colors create a sense of openness and refinement. The air conditioner switch panel has large, colorful, easy-to-use knobs. The audio panel is distinguished by a woodgrain finish that adds a taste of high quality. The trim coloring for the GLS Sport is maroon and beige, which conveys a sense of high quality. While the trim coloring for the GLX is a combination blue and gray, for an impression of youthful sportiness.

4. Advantage in interior roominess and user convenience

Compared to its main competitor, the FUZION is bigger. In addition, Mitsubishi Motors provided the FUZION with lots of convenient storage spaces and holders for greater user convenience. The seats have large dimensions to promote relaxation, and together with ample headroom, they help create a comfortable environment for the driver and passengers.

5. Top of its class running performance and riding comfort on and off highway

The FUZION is powered by a 2.4-liter, 16-valve, single overhead cam (SOHC) 4G64 gasoline engine for a maximum power of 136 Ps @ 5,250 rpm and maximum torque of 20.7 kg-m @ 4,000 rpm. It is mated to a 4-speed electronically-controlled transmission with overdrive switch. This combination is engineered for an optimal balance of superior running performance and economical operation. In test conducted by MMPC using our MUT-III system and with two persons on board fuel economy of the vehicle registered good results considering the size of the FUZION. City driving results was at 7.53 km/l running at an average of 34.14 km/h while on highway driving fuel consumption was at an impressive 12.45 km/l at average speed of 75.52 km/h. We expect fuel consumption to vary given loading and average running speed. City driving results can easily suffer when average running speeds dip lower due to traffic conditions.

The FUZION’s excellent riding comfort is a major advantage over competition. It’s not hard and body roll is minimal. Front double wishbone suspension and a three-link coil spring suspension achieve an enhanced SUV-level combination of handling stability and riding comfort. The FUZION’s riding comfort is also enhanced its long wheelbase, wider treads, and passenger car-type radial tires. A newly designed high-rigidity and wider chassis frame promotes running stability.

The FUZION also has a minimum ground clearance of 180 mm for superior drivability on rough, flooded, and otherwise difficult road surfaces. Large approach and departure angles further promote the FUZION’s versatility to overcome difficult road conditions.

The FUZION is one of the quietest in the class. Measures were applied to suppress noise and vibration. Its has very rigid body, it uses double door seals, noise sealing spherical joints in the exhaust system, optimally positioned silencer and insulator, and foam fillers inside structural members.

6. Affordability and full packed in value for money

There are two variants of the new FUZION, the GLS Sport and GLX. Both variants offer remarkable features and amenities which will substantiate its selling price. For the GLS Sport, key features are as follows:

· High Intensity Discharge Headlamps with Leveler
· Fog lamps
· Rear Spoiler with LED-Type 3rd Brake Lamp
· 16-inch 5-Spoke Alloy Wheels fitted on 225/60 R16 Tires
· Muffler Cutter
· Wheel Cut Moulding
· 4-Spoke Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel, Seats, and Gear Shift Lever
· Automatic Climate Control
· 8-Way Power Adjust Driver’s Seat
· 1-DIN DVD / CD / MP3 / WAV / WMA / Tuner / iPod- and USB-ready with 7-inch LCD Monitor


While for the GLX, its key features are the following:

· Multi-Reflector Halogen Headlamps
· Lift-Type Tailgate
· 15-inch 5-Spoke Alloy Wheels fitted on 205/70 R15 Tires
· Glass-Printed Antenna
· Rear Window Wiper and Defogger
· 4-Spoke Urethane Steering Wheel
· Manual Air Conditioner and Rear Vents
· 1-DIN CD / MP3 / WAV / Tuner / iPod- and USB-ready Audio System

In line with Mitsubishi Motors’ crashworthiness policy, the FUZION’s body is based on Mitsubishi Motors Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body structure. Beside the front airbags, seatbelts with pretensioner and force limiter functions, the steering column has a collapsible structure that prevents the shaft from protruding the cabin in the event of collision.

The all new FUZION is available at all MMPC’s dealerships nationwide. The suggested retail price (SRP) for the FUZION GLS Sport is Php 1.150M and the GLX at Php 950,000. Test drive can be availed by calling any of the Mitsubishi dealerships nationwide.

-MMPC

The All-New Outlander 2nd Gen arrives in the Philippines

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines has begun importing the All-New Outlander from Japan. Powered by the same 3.0L V6 engine that powers the 07 Outlanders sold in the US, AU, and other markets, the new Outlander offers plenty of power while being fuel efficient. Currently offered in two trims, the GLS and GLS Sport, with the Sport being equipped with the Rockford Fosgate Sound System. The MMCS, and consequently the Navigation, will not be offered, although this may be added, but as a caveat, this version might not be prewired for MMCS. The MMCS unit won't come cheap though. It is estimated to cost 131,000 PhP.

If you're interested in the new Outlander, please join our growing community of enthusiasts at http://outlander.freeforums.org and share topics, pictures, and stories about the Outlander.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines offers 4 new vehicles for 2007

2007 Eclipse GT [Specs]
(Manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors North America)


L200 Strada GLS [Specs]
(Manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors Thailand)
(Marketed as "Triton" in some countries)

L200 Strada GLX [Specs]
(Manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors Thailand)
(Marketed as "Triton" in some countries)


Grandis [Specs]

-Mitsubishi Motors Philippines [www.mitsubishi-motors.com.ph]