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Mitsubishi Motors History
Mitsubishi Motors developed their first car, the Model A, back
in 1917. It was Japan’s first series-production automobile.
Over the next 20 years Mitsubishi became an innovator, designing
Japan’s first car diesel engine, its first large-size
bus, its first diesel-powered truck and its first four wheel
drive passenger car prototype.
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Mitsubishi Colt
The first Colt, not a predecessor of the current models, was
a large, spacious family car introduced to European and American
markets in 1962. It represented the best and latest in automotive
technology and car sales.
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Ralliart Beginnings
The 1970s saw the beginning of Mitsubishi’s international
rallying success with Galants and Lancers. By the end of the
decade Mitsubishi vehicles were picking up honours both at home
and abroad.
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Mitsubishi Shogun
Mitsubishi built its first four-wheel drive car in 1933, but
the Pajero (or Shogun for the UK market) did not appear until
1982. The Shogun was a 4 x 4 that took several honours in the
Paris-Daker rally a few months later. In 1984 it won outright
and became a global best-seller, winning “4x4 of the Year”
awards in Australia, Britain, France, Spain and West Germany.
Galants, Colts, Lancers and L200s were also being honoured worldwide.
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| In 1990 the Mitsubishi Motors Co-operation introduced the
world’s first Traction Control System, followed by Super
Select 4WD and multi-mode ABS in 1991. 1996 saw the development
of the GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine. |
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Mitsubishi Carisma and Mitsubishi
Imports
In the UK, the European-built Mitsubishi Carisma and Space Star
models, and the relaxation of import quotas on Japanese-built
vehicles, saw Mitsubishi car sales increase by over 80%. With
the introduction of the Shogun Pinnin, Mitsubishi extended the
Shogun range into the lifestyle 4x4 market.
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| In 2000, Mitsubishi Motors and DaimlerChrysler formally signed
the terms of an alliance which put them in the top three of
the world’s car giants. It allows DaimlerChrysler to gain
a stronger position in Asia, while Mitsubishi gains a stronger
foothold outside Asia. The future of Mitsubishi looks exciting. |
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