Each company in the automotive market has its own long history, and not all well-known and large companies today began their long journey with the production of the first car. One of these companies is the modern giant, whose cars are popular all over the world -. The history of Mitsubishi is striking in what heights a person can reach only through desire and perseverance.
origins
The founder is considered to be Yataro Iwasaki, who was born in 1835 in a family of descendants of samurai. From a young age, he went to work for a shipping company. At 35, he rented three steamships and opened his own company, which he named Tsukumo Shokai. In 1975, he renamed it the Mitsubishi Mail Steamship Company. During the Second World War, he was engaged in shipbuilding, metallurgy, real estate, etc.
As Yataro, Iwasaki chose three diamonds, which served as the basis for the coat of arms of the Tosa samurai clan, the clan to which he owed his success. These rhombuses he arranged according to the shape of the oak leaf. The rhombuses in the emblem began to symbolize diamonds.
In the video, the history of the development of the Mitsubishi Eclipse car:
The word Mitsubishi itself means "three diamonds", which reflect the three principles of Yataro Iwasaki's company - social responsibility, honesty and willingness to cooperate with foreign companies.
After the war, Mitsubishi still continued to supply the Japanese army with ships and aircraft. Both peaceful and military transport was created here.
The Japanese government at the beginning of the 20th century considered the development of personal transport inappropriate. Cars for personal use were assembled by hand, and these were very laborious and lengthy processes. Despite such a situation in the country, Yataro managed to introduce the first assembly line for the production of Mitsubishi Model A cars in 1917. Unfortunately, production had to be closed in 1921, since there was practically no demand for these cars. The last time it was presented in 1922 at an industrial exhibition in Japan, where the car was appreciated.
The Japanese did not buy personal transport, but they were interested in trucks and buses. Taking this fact into account, in 1918, Mitsubishi produced its first truck - T1, which has passed all the necessary tests for strength and reliability. Its creation was supported by the Japanese government. In the future, the concern began to produce heavy vehicles, allowing you to effectively solve any army problems. It was these cars that helped in the reconstruction of Tokyo after a terrible devastating earthquake.
The thirties of the XX century became a decade of new industrial developments and inventions for the Yataro company. In 1931, Mitsubishi released the first Japanese 70 hp. With. The following year, the company's first bus, the Mitsubishi B46, began to be mass-produced here, which even became popular. In 1934, the production of buses BD43 and BD46 started, in 1936 - a TD45 truck with a diesel engine, and in 1937 - 4WD trucks.
Hard times
Until the outbreak of World War II, the Mitsubishi concern was owned exclusively by the Yataro Iwasaki family. Due to the obvious defeat that threatened Japan, at that time the company's president, Koyata Iwasaki, sold half of the shares to investors in order to maintain control over the enterprise in the event of the country's occupation. The development of the military industry was unprofitable for the victorious countries, so all large concerns were divided into small enterprises. Mitsubishi has now turned into a history of 44 independent companies.
In the 1950s, three automotive companies were formed on their basis.. Unfortunately, none of them could use the name and symbols of the former large concern Mitsubishi. Despite this, during the occupation of Japan, small-sized three-wheeled trucks, scooters, B1 buses, MB46 trolleybuses and R1 rear-engine buses began to be produced here.
long awaited revival
After the end of the occupation in 1952, the enterprises were again able to unite. The merger resulted in Mitsubishi Corporation. Of course, many small businesses did not want to become part of a large corporation and return to their former control. However, this did not prevent Mitsubishi from developing further and conquering new peaks in the automotive industry. A novelty of the 50s was the introduction into the production of trucks: a new type of chassis and a folding cab. In addition, in 1959 the company released a new truck with an engine in the rear and put into production a new three-wheeled Leo truck.
At the same time, Mitsubishi cars began to appear on the car markets in other countries. For example, Thailand exported B25 buses, and Chile - R32.
Finally, in the 60s, the Japanese began to show interest in personal transport. In this regard, in 1960, Mitsubishi began producing the Mitsubishi 500. This car not only became a popular model of a large automobile company, but also participated in, and, moreover, won the Macau Grand Prix, where he declared himself to be a good “sportsman”. ".
It was followed in 1962 by models - Colt 600 and Minica. The latter belonged to compact four-seater cars. The designers equipped it two-stroke engine, the working volume of which was 359 cm 3. The small engine capacity guaranteed the payment of a small tax and, which indicated the economy of this model. Colt 600 represented a family of comfortable and large family cars.
Then everything went, as if on a knurled track. Mitsubishi cars made themselves known within the framework of motor sports and were popular among the common people. By the early 1970s, Mitsubishi had become one of the world's leading sellers of high quality road transport wide spectrum.
A separate achievement of the designers of the successful corporation was the development of the Mitsubishi Clean Air series. This is not the only breakthrough in science. The significance of another development of Mitsubishi specialists - the "silent shaft" technology - was noted by the Japanese Automobile Technology Association.
In the 80s, the Japanese company actively expanded its activities in the world. As a result of work in this direction, a company was founded in Australia Mitsubishi Motors Australia. In addition, many models of this brand have been awarded various awards and prizes from the world automotive communities. All the same, they did not graze the rear ones in sports - the model more than once became the winner in the Paris-Dakar rally.
In 2000, after entering into a strategic alliance with DaimlerChrysler, Mitsubishi is one of the top three companies in the world automobile structure. In the same year, many new products entered the market, and the number of cars produced in Holland at the NedCar plant exceeded one million.
Currently, Mitsubishi produces a huge number of different types and models of road transport. In its assortment are both small compact machines and big trucks. Specialized vehicles are also produced here.
The history of the Japanese car manufacturer Mitsubishi began long before the creation of their first car. Company founder Yataro Iwasaki was born in 1835. The place where he started working as a teenager was a ship-owning company owned by the Tosa samurai clan. Being a descendant of the samurai, by the age of thirty-five, Yataro had achieved a significant career development in this service, which allowed him to lease three steamships from Tosa and form his own company, called Tsukumo Shokai. Within five years, the company's name changed several times, becoming in 1975 the Mitsubishi Mail Steamship Company ("Mitsubishi Postal Steamship Company"). 
Gradually, the Yataro Iwasaki ship-owning company was transformed into a large corporation, which in Japan were called zaibatsu. characteristic feature pre-war Japanese concerns was the vast scope of their interests. So the concern, founded by Yataro Iwasaki, was engaged in shipbuilding, oil refining, metallurgy, light industry, real estate, insurance and many others before the Second World War. Mitsubishi even owned the brewery that gave birth famous brand Japanese beer Kirin. 
Apparently, Yataro Iwasaki was deeply grateful to the Tosa clan for the opportunity to become a competent leader and entrepreneur. And as a token of his gratitude, as the emblem of his own company, he arranged three rhombuses, which in the coat of arms of his clan are located one above the other, in accordance with the shape of the oak leaf (oak leaves are the coat of arms of the Tosa clan). The rhombuses in this emblem have become symbols of diamonds.
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Thus, the name “mitsubishi” was obtained, which translates as “three diamonds”. That is why the company created by Yataro Iwasaki does not have his last name in the name. The emblem of three diamonds is explained as a symbol of the three principles of the company: honesty, social responsibility and readiness for international cooperation. 
In the first half of the 20th century, the foreign policy of the Japanese state was aggressive and based on military power, which was provided by the activities of samurai concerns. Mitsubishi, among these zaibatsu, provided the army and navy with aircraft and ships, both military and transport. Maintaining the combat readiness of the army was a priority for the zaibatsu, and in such circumstances it was not considered appropriate to develop the production of personal cars. Therefore, in Japan at that time, cars were made by hand assembly, which requires a lot of time and labor. However, 1917 was marked by the introduction of Mitsubishi's first assembly line for the production of cars, which began to produce Model A. But in 1921, the production of this model ceased due to lack of demand. However, at the Japan Industry Exhibition in 1922, it became a valuable exhibit.
At the beginning of the 20th century personal transport was of little demand in Japan, preference was given to the production of buses and trucks. The first Mitsubishi truck, model T1, was released in 1918. He adequately withstood a thousand-kilometer reliability test run, subsidized by the Japanese government. Since 1923, Mitsubishi launched the production of heavy vehicles, which made it possible to more effectively solve the transport tasks of the Japanese army and played an important role in the reconstruction of the Japanese capital Tokyo after a strong earthquake. 
In the thirties of the XX century, the active and innovative activity of Mitsubishi allowed it to become the largest corporation in Japan, second only to Mitsui in size. Almost every year of this decade is marked by an industrial invention: 1931 - Japan's first diesel engine using direct injection technology is developed - the 450AD model, whose power was 70 Horse power; 1932 - the first Mitsubishi bus, B46, was put into serial production, which was distinguished by the largest power and size, which then even China acquired for its needs; 1934 - BD43 and BD46 buses were created, running on diesel fuel, and the SHT6 pre-chamber diesel was invented; 1936 diesel-powered TD45 truck; 1937 - Production of all-wheel drive trucks (4WD) was started as an experiment. The efforts of Mitsubishi innovators have been constantly directed towards improving the efficiency of the main part of motor vehicles - diesel engines.
In order to effectively supply the Japanese army with ships and aircraft, in 1934, the Mitsubishi board created a single heavy industry group, Mitsubishi Heavy Industry, which combined the functions of aircraft, shipbuilding and automotive. 
Until 1945, the entire Mitsubishi concern was led exclusively by the Iwasaki family. But, anticipating the defeat of Japan in World War II, the fourth president of Mitsubishi, Koyata Iwasaki, was forced to sell almost half of the shares to private investors in order to maintain control over the concern in the event of an occupation. But the winners were interested in the absence of a military industry in Japan. To this end, the occupation command, by order, disbanded the Japanese industrial and financial groups (zaibatsu). Thus, in 1946, Mitsubishi was divided into 44 companies, independent of each other. Later, in 1950, the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries group was transformed by territorial location into three independent automotive companies. The list of requirements for the companies formed as a result of the dissolution included a ban on the use of Mitsubishi symbols and the name. 
The ruined economy of the defeated and occupied country put forward such requirements for vehicles as reliability and economical fuel consumption in the first place. To meet these requirements, Mitsubishi in 1946 began production of: small-sized three-wheeled trucks "Mizushima", with a carrying capacity of 400 kg; scooters "Silver Pigeon", as a private vehicle and bus B1, which was distinguished by the ability to run on either gasoline or alternative fuels. These vehicles were distinguished by their low price and low fuel consumption. The following year, 1947, the production of the first Mitsubishi MB46 trolleybuses began. In 1950, thanks to Mitsubishi, a rear-engined bus appeared in Japan for the first time - the R1 model.
The occupation of Japan ended in 1952, and economic restrictions were partially lifted from it. As a result, enterprises have the opportunity to merge into more large corporations. Several companies from ex-Mitsubishi, seized this opportunity and formed the Mitsubishi Corporation. However, a larger number chose the path of independent development. About twenty of today's large companies that developed from those enterprises have the word Mitsubishi in their names. 
The knowledge and technology inherent in the pre-war Mitsubishi, the desire for innovation and invention, again received the opportunity and scope for implementation. In particular, this was manifested in the development of automotive activities of the post-war Mitsubishi. In 1951, the production of trucks was marked by such innovations: the T31 truck was equipped with a new type of chassis developed by itself, the T33 truck, for the first time in Japan, used air suspension, and the T380 truck received a folding cab, which made it possible to abandon the hood. The following year, Mitsubishi released the R2 truck, which had its engine in the rear. In 1959, Mitsubishi developed and launched a model of a small three-wheeled truck called the Leo. 
In the fifties, Mitsubishi transport products began to appear in other countries. 1952 marked the export of B25 buses to Thailand, which was the first major delivery outside of Japan. In 1953, the first transport was delivered to the American continent - to Chile, it was 300 buses of the R32 model, and the same delivery was made in 1956.
In the 1960s, Japan's income level increased so much due to economic development that there was a demand for private cars. Having far-sightedly assessing the opening prospects, already in 1960 Mitsubishi launched the production of an inexpensive Mitsubishi 500 sedan, which quickly gained popularity and won the Macau Grand Prix in 1962, where Mitsubishi first announced its participation in world motorsport. 
Passenger cars developed in the 1962 Minica and Colt 600 models. The four-seater Minica compact car was equipped with an air-cooled two-stroke engine with a displacement of only 359 cc. Due to its small engine size, the Minica was a low-tax car. Along with this, the reliability and efficiency of the Minica determined the high level of its sales. The same qualities were inherent in the Colt 600 model, which was positioned as a large and comfortable family car. Accounting for the demand for specialized commercial vehicles determined the launch of the Rosa small bus models (1960) and the Canter light truck family (1963). 
In 1964, the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd corporation was recreated, which had a large automotive division. In later years the lineup Mitsubishi replenished: in 1964 - a Debonair executive car equipped with a six-cylinder engine; in 1965 with the Colt 800, the first Japanese car to have a "fastback" body type; 1966 - Colt 1000F, Colt 1100 and Minicab models. 1968 was marked by the launch of the 600-kilogram Delica pickup truck and the B906R bus, which was distinguished by its ability to reach speeds of 140 km / h, which was a record for buses of that time.
Mitsubishi's achievements in the field of motorsport have also been developed. So in the race Japan Grand Prix Formula Car Race won: Colt F3-A in 1966 and Colt F2-A in 1967, and in 1968 Colt F2-B received two cups - Formula Car Race and Speed Cup Race. Also in 1968, the Colt 1000F team won the third Southern Cross Rally. 
In 1969, Mitsubishi implemented the latest advances in technology and design of the time in the Colt Galant. This sedan has been developed in subsequent generations of Mitsubishi cars. Also this year, a new generation of Minica models appeared. 
By the end of the 60s, Mitsubishi had become a reputable manufacturer of a wide range of high-quality vehicles, which became a symbol of the active introduction of the latest achievements of science and technology in the automotive industry. The success of the development of the automotive branch of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, led in 1970 to its separation as an independent Mitsubishi company. Motor Corporation. In the same year, models were released: Colt Galant GTO, two-door Galant Hardtop and Galant Station Wagon. The seventh Southern Cross rally held in 1972 on the Australian continent was won by the Galant 16GLS team. In the years that followed, Mitsubishi teams continued the tradition of victories in the motorsport world with new awards and titles.
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation also carries out significant environmental projects aimed at reducing environmental pollution. An example of such a project is the Mitsubishi Clean Air (MCA) series engines. 
In 1973, Mitsubishi launched the new Lancer and the next generation of the popular Galant. This year also marked the beginning of the oil crisis, which forced many car manufacturers to degrade engine performance to reduce fuel consumption. But Mitsubishi was one of the few who didn't go that route. Developed by Mitsubishi in 1975, the Silent Shaft technology for the Astron 80 engines aroused the interest of reputable automotive manufacturers. Porsche companies and Volvo, which have acquired a license to use it. The Automotive Technology Association of Japan recognized the significance of this development by honoring Mitsubishi with a Science Achievement Award. 
Such technological inventions of Mitsubishi contributed to the global recognition and respect of the corporation itself and the entire Japanese automotive industry. 1975 also marked the launch of the Lancer Celeste, the victory of the Lancer 1600GSR in the rally, and, most importantly, the start of Mitsubishi exports to Europe. The following year, the production of new generations of cars began: Galant models - the third generation, Minicab models - the second generation; and also a new Model Galant Lambda (Mitsubishi Sapporo). 1978 is the year of the release of the new Mirage (Colt) model and the Forte pickup (L200).
During these years, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation vehicles receive many awards from automotive publications. So the magazine "Motor Fan" awarded the title "Car of the Year": in 1976 to the Galant Sigma, in 1979 to the Colt 1400 GLX; Pickup, Van & 4WD magazine named the L200 "U.S. Pickup of the Year". In 1977, the Galant Sigma was also named "car of the year" in South Africa.
Inspired by the success of developing its own infrastructure, distribution network and car service in Japan, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation actively expanded its activities in the global market in the eighties. Thus, in 1980, the corporation established the Australian company Mitsubishi Motors Australia. In 1980, the Mitsubishi lineup was replenished with the fourth generation of the Galant model and an all-wheel drive modification of the L200 pickup truck. In the same year, the company's inventors created the first Japanese turbodiesel engine, the Astron 2300. 
The following year, the American division of Mitsubishi Motor Sales of America was established. The legendary SUV Pajero (Montero) - a promising offspring of Mitsubishi appeared in 1982. Mitsubishi designers have made significant efforts to make this SUV stand out from its counterparts in technical design, ease of use, the best speed and technical specifications. This allowed the Pajero team to win the Paris-Dakar Rally in 1983 and 1984. In 1982, other new models were launched: the ABS-equipped Starion, the Tredia sedan and Cordia hatchback, as well as a four-wheel drive version of the Delica pickup truck. And in 1983, the Chariot (Space Wagon) model appeared. 
The Olympic Committee of the 1984 Sarajevo Games and the organizers of the 1987 Universiade in Zagreb chose Mitsubishi as the official car supplier. In 1984, Germany awarded the Galant with the Golden Steering Wheel (Das Goldene Lenkrad) prize. Pajero SUV in 1984 receives the "4x4 of the Year" awards in France and Australia, and in 1985 Pajero Long Wagon wins "4x4 of the Year" in Australia. Pajero's winning streak continued with Paris-Dakar rally victories, Car of the Year titles in 1986 and 1987 in many countries, the addition of the Austrian "4x4 of the Year" award and winning the prize "Auto-Oscar" awarded German magazine Auto Zeitung. The Colt and Lancer models in 1988 replenished the treasury of Mitsubishi awards with Golden Steering Wheel prizes. And in Japan in 1987 and 1988, the Galant VR-4 model became the "car of the year".
The conquest of the American automobile market continued with the creation of Diamond-Star Motors Corporation, the brainchild of Mitsubishi and Chrysler corporations. This enterprise in 1989 presented a new Eclipse model, created specifically for the American consumer. 
In the nineties, the Pajero SUV, winning the rally, multiplied Mitsubishi's list of sports victories. In 1990, the corporation released a sports model (3000GT), which quickly won recognition, which was recognized by Motor Trend magazine as the best imported car in the United States in 1991; as well as the new Minica Topp. Of course, in addition to sports achievements, Mitsubishi expanded the list of technological innovations. In 1990, the Sigma and Diamante models were first equipped with traction control TRC (Traction Control System). In 1991, Mitsubishi introduced the RVR (Space Runner), the second generation of the Pajero, which used the new Super Select 4WD technology and multi-mode ABS, and the new Strada (L200) pickup truck.
In 1990, Mitsubishi took the lead in the global truck market. And next year, Mitsubishi again became the official supplier of cars for the Universiade in Sapporo and the festival in Bregenz (Austria). 
1992 marked the introduction of the Galant-based Emeraude for the Japanese domestic market and the Lancer Evolution. Also this year, the inventors of Mitsubishi introduced the MIVEC and INVECS systems, and the Mitsubishi Motors Europe Design Studio opened in Europe; Pajero and Galant VR-4 cars win again in rally raids. Awarded with many prizes Pajero and RVR, as well as Mitsubishi buses. At the same time, the Japanese research conference named the "technology of the year" the development of INVECS.
In 1993, as a result of Mitsubishi Motors' environmental efforts, the Libero EV was developed based on the Libero station wagon. Mitsubishi's lineup also expanded with the Lancer Evolution II, which debuted in the World Rally Championship (WRC). In the same year, Mitsubishi Motors became the official sponsor of the Asian Football Confederation. 
In 1994, Mitsubishi launched the production of the following models: FTO, equipped with the new INVECS-II system and automatic transmission with sports mode, Delica Space Gear (L400 / Space Gear) and Pajero Mini - a small all-wheel drive SUV. In addition, the sale of the electric car Libero EV began. The new FTO car is named "car of the year" in Japan.
Achievements of automotive manufacturers Mitsubishi are marked by titles from printed publications: 1994 - the Lancer was recognized by the magazine "Car Information" as the car of the year, the British magazine "What Van?" awarded the all-wheel drive L200 with the title “Top Pickup 1994/1995” by Which Car? awarded the Pajero SUV the title of “4WD of the Year 1994”. 
In 1995, Mitsubishi, together with concern Volvo and the Dutch government officially opened the NedCar plant in Holland. This factory has the first european car Mitsubishi - Carisma model. In the same year, as a result of acquiring a stake in Chrysler, Mitsubishi received full control of the Diamond-Star Motors Corporation, which was renamed Mitsubishi Motor Manufacturing of America Inc. 
Mitsubishi designers delighted the Japanese automotive market in 1995 with the release of the Pajero Jr mini SUV, and also developed a revolutionary engine equipped with GDI system(Gasoline Direct Injection) - direct fuel injection into cylinders. This technology has made it possible to achieve the efficiency of a gasoline engine comparable to a diesel engine, while maintaining power. Also, this technology has improved the environmental performance of the engine. The prestigious British motoring magazine "Car" was the first to honor GDI technology with the "Design and Technology" award, which many other automotive publications and organizations did not fail to follow. In 1995, Mitsubishi's series of sports victories continued with teams on Lancer, Pajero and Lancer Evolution models.
1996 is the year of release of the Challenger model. In the same year, the first stage of construction of the new Tokachi test site in Hokkaido, intended for testing vehicles, was completed. In 1998-1999 there were following models Mitsubishi: Pajero iO (Montero iO / Pajero Pinin), Space Star, Dingo, Proudia luxury sedan and Town Box - a new incarnation of the Minicab model. GDI engines also began to be widely used.
Mitsubishi approached XXI century with a large number of awards, both in motorsport and in the field of scientific achievements, marking the significant contribution of this company to the automotive world. 
The strategic alliance between Mitsubishi and DaimlerChrysler, concluded in 2000, has provided these corporations with a place in the top three automakers in the world. In the same year, the number of cars produced by the Dutch NedCar plant exceeded one million; Pajero III and Dion models launched. The following year, the new eK-Wagon and Airtrek models were introduced in Japan, and the Lancer Evolution received its seventh incarnation (Lancer Evolution VIII already exists).
Modern Mitsubishi is one of the world's automotive giants. Today, Mitsubishi produces an impressive range of vehicles, ranging from compact cars to heavy trucks and specialized vehicles. The reliability and speed of Mitsubishi cars is confirmed by numerous victories in rallies and other car competitions.
Manufacturer country: Japan
Mitsubishi(Mitsubishi) - one of the largest Japanese corporations specializing in the production of cars. Mitsubishi Motors, headquartered in Tokyo, is part of the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries division.
Mitsubishi was founded by Yataro Iwasaki (Yataro Iwasaki) in 1873, originally as a shipbuilding and ship repair company, which, during the life of its founder, extended its scope of interest to all kinds of technical innovations of that time. In 1875, after several name changes, it became known as the Mitsubishi Mail Steamship Company (Mitsubishi Postal Steamship Company) - this is how the progenitor of all modern companies Mitsubishi. The first cars "Mitsubishi Motors" "Model A" (1917), in many ways resembled Ford cars. In 1921, their release was discontinued, since in Japan the demand for cars was small.
Since 1924, the production of heavy trucks with a large load capacity, buses with the Fuso brand has begun. For the needs of Tokyo, garbage trucks and watering machines are produced.
In 1935, the first Japanese bus with a diesel engine was made here. After the destruction caused by the Second World War, Mitsubishi produced scooters and three-wheeled delivery vehicles, and buses reappeared in 1946, and in 1947 with an electric motor.
By the end of 1945, in addition to shipping, Mitsubishi was engaged in shipbuilding, banking, transportation services, mining, real estate, chemical production, and much, much more.
In 1946, the "Mizushima" appeared, a small, reliable and inexpensive three-wheeled vehicle, ideal for transporting people and goods over short distances in the post-war period. Soon, a closed cabin for two people began to be installed on the car. The same year was the year of birth of the first Mitsubishi scooter - "Silver Pigeon." Once again, the focus was on practicality and economy, but from a historical perspective, the Silver Pigeon was at the start of Japan's private car boom.
In 1951, the company released the T31 truck with an air suspension system, and the T380 became the first Japanese truck with retractable platform. Mitsubishi trucks and pickups are produced in a full range, but only light and medium trucks enter the European market. The most common pickup truck "L200" copes well with off-road.
In the post-war period, the release cars began in 1960 with the Mitsubishi 500 mass sedan.
In 1962 appeared Мinica (Minika) - the first 4-seater car of the first compact class. Based on a Mitsubishi 360 (1960) chassis, the Minica was powered by an air-cooled two-stroke engine with a displacement of 359 cc, which placed it in the lowest taxed category.
Colt 600 - a larger and more comfortable family car (the modern Colt is positioned in a different class), whose production began in 1962. In 1965, the Mitsubishi Colt 800 appears - Japan's first car with a "fastback" layout
In 1969, Mitsubishi enters the higher-class car market. The Colt Galant sedan was the ancestor of a whole family of high-quality and prestigious cars, which won numerous victories in rally competitions and repeatedly received the "Car of the Year" prizes for high consumer qualities. Among the distinguishing features of the first Galant were the aerodynamic "wedge" body shape, which created additional downforce, and the Saturn series engine with an overhead camshaft and aluminum cylinder head. Thus, Galant 1969, which embodied the best modern developments and technologies of its time, became the ancestor of a whole segment of the automotive market in Japan.
In 1963, a new Mitsubishi Rosa series of small buses and the Canter family of light trucks appeared. By the end of the 60s, Mitsubishi is gaining a reputation as a manufacturer of high-quality cars with the widest model range, which is actively developing and introducing the latest technologies and developments in the automotive industry.
In 1970, the automotive division of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. becomes independent and becomes Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC).
In 1972 Galant 16GLS wins the overall standings of the 7th Southern Cross Rally. The following year, the Lancer 1600GSR wins in the same competition (by the way, a few months later, mass production of Lancer family cars begins).
At the end of the decade, Motor Fan magazine awards the Mitsubishi Colt 1400 GLX as "Car of the Year" in Japan, while Pickup, Van & 4WD magazine awards the Mitsubhshi L200 "USA's Pickup of the Year".
Since 1983, Mitsubishi vehicles have been equipped with an electronic suspension system.
In 1982, the Mitsubishi Pajero (Pajero), a popular city jeep, was released; in 2000, its 5-door version was launched on the European market. Pajero has received many awards in many countries around the world. In 1986, Pajero was named SUV of the Year in the UK (UK's What Car).
The Mitsubishi Space Runner/RVR minivan was introduced in 1983. In May 1991, a new generation appeared. In the fall of 1991, the car was shown in Europe under the name Space Runner.
In 1984 Mitsubishi Galant wins the German prize "Das Goldene Lenkrad" (Golden Steering Wheel). Mitsubishi Colt and Lancer cars, popular in Europe and Russia, receive the same prestigious award.
In 1989, the 3000GT/GTO sports car was introduced in Tokyo as a prototype for the HSX. Mass production models began in the fall of 1990. In 1995, a convertible was released. The car is similar to the Dodge Stealth model.
In the fall of 1991, a new generation of models was introduced. Since May 1992, the Libero station wagon has been produced. In January 1995, a modification of the GSR Evo III with an 270 hp engine was demonstrated. With. In the fall of 1995, a new generation appeared. In 1999, the all-wheel drive version of the Lancer GSR Evolution VI went on sale.
In the fall of 1991, the Space Wagon/Grandis model entered the European market. The new generation was introduced in Tokyo in October 1997, in Europe in 1998.
The Mitsubishi Eclipce, a powerful sports car in the Golf class, was first introduced in January 1994. In 1996, an updated model appeared.
Space Gear (Delica is the name of the machine for Japanese market), a minivan based on the Pajero model, was first introduced in May 1994. Modification off-road- Space Gear 4WD - designed on an SUV chassis.
In 1995, Mitsubishi produces its first car in Europe: the first Carisma rolls off the Nedcar plant in Holland, a joint venture between Mitsubishi Motors, Volvo and the Dutch government.
In 1996, the production of the Sigma sedan and station wagon in Australia and the L200 pickup truck in Thailand began.
In 1996, the revolutionary Mitsubishi GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine was developed - the first mass-produced engine with direct injection of gasoline into cylinders, combining efficiency approaching a diesel engine and the power of a gasoline engine. By the end of 1997, the Mitsubishi GDI engine was installed in Galant, Pajero, Diamante, Challenger (Montero Sport), Chariot (Space Wagon), RVR (Space Runner) for the Japanese domestic market and Carisma for the European market.
The Space Star minivan was first introduced in the fall of 1998. The model is produced in a joint venture with Volvo in Holland and is intended for sale in the European market.
The 2001 Mitsubishi Colt is offered in three trim levels: Base, Comfort and Elegance.
A new generation of L200 pickups was introduced in 2000. L200 Strada is a version developed specifically for the Russian market based on the L200 GLS.
The history of Mitsubishi has more than 140 years. The company was founded as a shipping company and over time has become a diversified global giant. The stability of the holding is determined by the principles of its activities, formulated by the creator and not lost their relevance to this day
Founded in 1870 as a shipping company, Mitsubishi has grown into a diversified global business giant in over 140 years of existence.
The long-term stability of the holding is largely determined by the principles of its activities, formulated by the founder, and which have not lost their relevance to this day.
Samurai businessman
A descendant of the samurai, Yataro Iwasaki (born in 1835) from his youth was distinguished by a penchant for entrepreneurship. As a teenager, he worked in a ship-owning company owned by the Tosa samurai clan.
His career was going well, but Yataro wanted to work for himself. And at the age of 35, he founded his own company Tsukumo Shokai, renting three steamships from Tosa. The name of the company will change more than once: in 1872 - to Mitsukawa Shokai, in 1874 - to Mitsubishi Shokai, and, finally, in 1875, Yataro will rename his brainchild to Mitsubishi Mail Steamship Company.
The word Mitsubishi means three diamonds, symbolizing the three principles of the company's work: responsibility to society, honesty, and openness to international cooperation. It was very unusual for Japan at that time.
Choosing an emblem for Mitsubishi, Yataro Iwasaki, despite personal ambitions, decided to refuse to assign to the company own name. In gratitude to the Tosa samurai clan, he combined the coat of arms of his family (three diamonds, one above the other) and the coat of arms of Tosa (oak leaves).
After the death of Yataro Iwasaki in 1885, the management of Mitsubishi passed to members of his family, who managed not only to maintain, but also to increase family capital. So, already in 1893, the company turned into a holding, which included divisions involved in the construction of ships, oil production, metallurgy, and the production of internal combustion engines.
Yataro Iwasaki's son Hisaya decided to explore new markets and opened a banking division, real estate and insurance departments, and a brewery. He also reformed the management of the company, merging all divisions into a single holding Mitsubishi Ltd.
First kilometers
Mitsubishi, like other samurai concerns, at the end of the 19th century and during the First World War, supported the military policy of the government, producing aircraft and military ships.
The automotive industry as an industry at that time was considered not a profitable business - cars Japanese stamps assembled by hand. But in 1917, Yataro Iwasaki's successor decided to develop this direction, and Mitsubishi released the Model A, the first Japanese car assembled on an assembly line.
The entrepreneurial risk did not justify itself, and four years later the car was no longer produced, and production was redesigned for the manufacture of trucks. And it turned out to be the right decision.
The Japanese government funded a 1000-kilometer reliability test for the T1 truck (1918), which it successfully passed. Five years later, Mitsubishi began to produce heavy trucks, in demand by the Japanese army and indispensable in the reconstruction of Tokyo after the earthquake.
Between the two world wars, Mitsubishi actively introduces new ideas and own developments: in 1931, the first Japanese diesel engine with direct injection was created; in 1932 the first B46 bus was produced; in 1934, a prototype of the all-wheel drive passenger car PX33 appeared, in 1935 - diesel buses BD46 and BD43, as well as a pre-chamber diesel SHT6.
In 1934, Mitsubishi merged the aircraft and shipbuilding divisions. As a result, the Mitsubishi Heavy Industry group appeared, which became the supplier of the Japanese army, producing warships and aircraft. She also released diesel cars. This managerial decision made the Mitsubishi holding the second largest concern in Japan.
Consequences of World War II
In 1945, anticipating defeat in World War II, Koyata Iwasaki (the fourth president of Mitsubishi) sold about 50% of the shares to private investors. And in order to avoid the revival of the military-industrial power of Japan, the occupying authorities forcibly split the concern into 44 independent companies.
At the same time, the Mitsubishi name was banned. Five years later, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries was divided into three regional companies involved in the development and production of vehicles. And only in 1954, several companies united under the Mitsubishi trademark to produce trucks and buses.
The era of cars
Economic growth in Japan in the 1960s allowed the concern to launch the economical sedan Mitsubishi 500, designed for the mass consumer. To enter the European market in 1962, the Mitsubishi 500 takes part in the Macau Grand Prix. The victory of the sedan opened the doors of the Japanese car company to European countries.
Rising pace Mitsubishi sales led to the need to create a single corporation that combines all the technological processes of car production. So in 1970, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation appeared and an international distribution network began to be created.
In the 1980s, Mitsubishi management worked hard to expand its presence in the global market, for which purpose Mitsubishi Motor Sales of America was created. And especially for American consumers in 1982, the company introduced a new model - the Pajero (Montero) SUV.
The prestige of the Mitsubishi brand has grown thanks to the victorious participation in the Paris-Dakar Rally of the Pajero, which has become a legend among off-road vehicles. In Bloomington (USA), the plant of the joint venture of Mitsubishi and Chrysler - Diamond-Star Motors Corporation was opened. In 1989, the production of the Eclipse model, aimed at the American market, began at its facilities.
Production in Europe was opened in 1995 - the NedCar plant in the Netherlands - a joint venture between Mitsubishi, Volvo and the Dutch government. On it, Mitsubishi produced its first car in Europe, the Carisma.
By the way, earlier it was Volvo that was one of the two buyers of the license to use the Silent Shaft technology (“silent shaft”) for the Astron 80 series engines. For this development, Mitsubishi received a prize for scientific achievements from the Automobile Technology Association of Japan.
In 2000, Mitsubishi and the German-American corporation DaimlerChrysler signed an agreement on strategic alliance, which allowed them to enter the top three of the world's automotive giants.
Mitsubishi family
In parallel with the automotive business, the concern developed the production of electrical equipment for various purposes. So, back in 1921, a factory that produced electric motors for ocean-going ships separated from the Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Company.
The company was named Mitsubishi Electric Corporation. By 1960, it had grown into one of the most innovative and diversified electrical equipment manufacturers in the country.
Mitsubishi's main businesses today are aerospace systems, shipbuilding, steel structures, power systems and automotive batteries, turbochargers, machinery, forklifts, tanks, wind turbines, air conditioners, paper and printing machines, machine tools, light rail vehicles for the subway.
Mitsubishi shares were distributed among the company's employees after World War II and have since been passed down from father to son within the Iwasaki family.
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is a Japanese automaker headquartered in Tokyo. It is part of the Mitsubishi keiretsu. It produces passenger and commercial vehicles, as well as auto components. Its name comes from two Japanese words: "mitsu" - "three" and "hishi" - "diamond".
The founder of the company, Yataro Iwasaki, came from a poor samurai family. As a teenager, he got a job in a ship-owning trading company that belonged to the Tosa samurai clan. When he was 35 years old, Yataro Iwasaki rented three steamships and started his own business. At the same time, in the emblem of his company, he combined the Iwasaki family crest (three diamonds) and Tosa heraldry (oak leaves). This is how the logo appeared, depicting three rhombuses in the shape of a shamrock. It symbolized honesty, responsibility to society and openness to international cooperation.
After 20 years, the company was no longer engaged only in the shipping trade, but also in the construction of ships, oil production, metallurgy and the manufacture of internal combustion engines. The post of president is held by the founder's nephew, Hisaya Iwasaki, a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania. He carried out a number of reforms, united all divisions within the framework of a single holding Mitsubishi Ltd. and began to develop the direction of banking, insurance, real estate and brewing. During the wars of conquest, Mitsubishi took an active part in the construction of the army and navy.
In those days, assembling a car was lengthy and required the special skills of highly qualified specialists. Therefore, in Mitsubishi, the direction of the automotive industry was not considered profitable. Nevertheless, in 1917, the Model A appeared, the first car in Japan to be assembled on an assembly line.
The car was intended for the highest echelon of government officials and heads of large companies. Externally, the car resembled a Ford model. It was a four-door seven-seat sedan, which was equipped with a 35-horsepower 2.8-liter engine and a rear-wheel drive system. Mitsubishi Model A could accelerate to 32 km / h. Because the car was handcrafted and lacquered white cypress was used for its bodywork, it could not compete with cheaper American and European rivals. In 1921, production of the Mitsubishi Model A ceased.
Mitsubishi Model A (1917-1921)
Much more interest at that time was the production of trucks and buses. In 1918, the company produces the first T1 truck. To test its reliability, the Japanese government funded a 1,000 km vehicle test, which it successfully passed. Since 1923, Mitsubishi has been producing heavy trucks in demand by the Japanese army. Later, they proved indispensable in the reconstruction of Tokyo after the earthquake. Since 1924, Fuso buses have been produced, as well as sprinklers and garbage trucks.
In 1931, Mitsubishi produces the first diesel engine with direct fuel injection for a passenger car, the power of which was 70 hp. He made his debut on the 450AD.
In the 1930s, the company was the first in the Japanese automotive market to introduce many technological innovations. It was a prototype of a PX33 all-wheel drive passenger car, an SHT6 prechamber diesel, BD46 and BD43 diesel buses, a truck with diesel engine TD45. In 1937, the brand began producing all-wheel drive trucks.
At the end of World War II, Mitsubishi president Koyata Iwasaki sold about half of his shares to private investors and made several statements flattering the allied army. However, this did not help him retain control of the holding. The Americans did not want the revival of large concerns, so in capitulated Japan they passed a law prohibiting monopolies. Mitsubishi was broken up into 44 independent companies, some of which managed to keep their name.
In 1950, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries was divided into three regional companies, each of which was related to the automotive business in one way or another. In post-war Japan, two main requirements were put forward for a vehicle: it must be reliable and economical.
In 1946, the Mizushima three-wheeled truck appeared with a load capacity of 400 kg. After some time, a closed cabin was installed on it, accommodating two people. A Silver Pigeon scooter and a B1 bus also appear.
In the 1950s, Mitsubishi continued to innovate in the automotive industry. An 8-ton truck with the original T31 chassis type is released, the first T33 air-suspension truck in Japan, with a T380 tilt cab, with a rear-mounted R2 engine.
The company is entering the international market with B25 buses in Thailand and R32 in Chile.
In 1964, after the weakening of the dictates of the occupying authorities, the three companies formed after the fragmentation of Mitsubishi Heavy Industry merged again. By the early 1960s, the Japanese economy revived: the solvency of the population increased, which means that a market for passenger cars appeared.
In 1960, the Mitsubishi 500 appears - the first passenger car produced after World War II. It was produced for two years and later formed the basis of the Colt 600 model.
Mitsubishi 500 debuted on Tokyo Motor Show in 1959. It was equipped with a 493 cc two-cylinder air-cooled engine. cm and a power of 21 hp. at 5000 rpm. Torque was transmitted to the rear wheels through a three-stage mechanical box gears. The monocoque body was light and strong enough to accommodate four passengers and accelerate the car to 100 km / h.
Mitsubishi 500 (1960-1962)
In 1962, the Colt 600 appears. It was a converted Mitsubishi 500: the car received a five-seat interior, an extended trunk and a 594 cc engine with 25 hp. At the 9th Tokyo Motor Show, an open-top version of the car was presented, which did not go on sale.
In October of the same year, the Minica was released with a powerful 360cc air-cooled two-stroke engine. see. The car accelerated to 86 km / h and was a little old-fashioned for that time. In November 1964, he underwent the first modernization, in 1969 the second generation of the model was released. In total, she survived eight generations and was produced until 2011.
In 1964, the company introduces the Debonair model. It was executive sedan with a six-cylinder engine, the automaker's first foray into the high-end car market. The next was the Colt Galant, which marked the beginning of the production of a whole family of prestigious cars, distinguished by excellent consumer qualities and sporty character.
The car was produced in nine generations, and its cumulative sales exceeded 5 million. When developing the body, special attention was paid to aerodynamics, which was reflected in the name of the design - Dynawedge. Three versions were available with 1.3- and 1.5-litre engines. In 1971, they were replaced by engines of 1.4 and 1.6 liters, and in 1973 a top-end version appeared with a 1.7-liter power unit. Colt Galant became the first Mitsubishi car which was sold in the USA.
Mitsubishi Colt Galant (1969-2012)
The success of the car, including on foreign markets, led the company to the realization that its structure should be allocated one division entirely dedicated to the automotive industry. So on April 22, 1970, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation was formed under the leadership of Tomio Kubo.
In 1973, the model appears Mitsubishi Lancer, which became the ancestor of a whole family of cars. Lancer took a place in the company's model line between Minica and Galant. The sporty version has won numerous victories, including the Safari Rally twice and the Southern Cross four times.
The model entered the market in the back of a two- and four-door sedan, as well as a five-door station wagon with engines of 1.2, 1.4 and 1.6 liters. In February 1975, the Lancer was supplemented with a coupé version, which was called the Mitsubishi Lancer Celeste.
Mitsubishi Lancer (1973)
In the early 1970s, the oil crisis broke out. Unlike other automakers who prioritized fuel efficiency, Mitsubishi wasn't about to give up on performance.
In 1975, the company develops Silent Shaft technology for motors of the Astron 80 family. Later, it will receive an award from the Japanese Automobile Technology Association for it.
In 1978, the Mirage was introduced as a response to the fuel crisis. There was confusion about the name of the car, as in other markets it was sold under the name Colt, and sedan versions - Lancer.
The design focused on large windows. First, a three- and five-door hatchback were released, later - a sedan, station wagon and coupe. Mirage received independent suspension on all four wheels and front disc brakes. Initially, it was equipped with a 1.2- and 1.4-liter engine with a capacity of 72 and 82 hp.
Box debuted on this model Mitsubishi Gear Super Shift with four speeds and a separate "low" and "high" shifter. Thus, in fact, it was eight-speed.
Mitsubishi Mirage (1978)
In the same year, the Forte pickup was released, in 1979 Motor Fan magazine named the Colt 1400 GLX the car of the year in Japan.
Since the 1980s, the company has been striving to expand its presence in the global market. Mitsubishi Motors Australia and Mitsubishi Motor Sales of America appear. The Astron 2300, Japan's first passenger car turbodiesel, is being developed.
In 1982, the Pajero SUV appeared, which is distinguished by excellent dynamic performance, high comfort and good design. It got its name in honor of the Pampas cat, which lives on the Patagonia plateau, in Argentina.
Initially, a short three-door version of the model with petrol and diesel engines. Since February 1983, customers have been offered a modification with a long wheelbase and five doors. It was equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline or 2.3-liter turbocharged diesel engine.
In 1990, the long-wheelbase Mitsubishi Pajero Elite was launched into the series with a different instrument panel lining, walnut doors, a sunroof and a special color in gray or blue.
Mitsubishi Pajero (1982)
In addition to the Pajero, the Starion models with ABS, the Tredia sedan, the Cordia hatchback, and the all-wheel drive version of the Delica are entering the market. In the late 1980s, Diamond-Star Motors Corporation, a joint venture between Mitsubishi Motor and Chrysler, was opened in Bloomington, Illinois, USA.
In 1990, production of the 3000GT/GTO sports car begins. Its prototype was the HSR concept car shown a year earlier. The car received the latest technological developments of the company, including four active wheels, all-wheel drive, an active aerodynamics system with automatic adjustment of the front and rear spoilers, as well as electronically controlled suspension.
Mitsubishi GTO was equipped with an engine with four camshafts, two turbochargers with an intercooler and multipoint injection into the cylinders.
In 1994, the second generation of the model was released with a modernized front and rear bumpers and side air intakes. Air conditioning, two airbags and a new audio system appeared in the cabin.
Mitsubishi 3000GT (1990-2000)
In 1995, the European Mitsubishi plant. Through a joint venture with Volvo and the Dutch government, the Japanese automaker launches the Carisma. Next year, assembly of the Sigma sedan and station wagon begins in Australia, and the L200 pickup truck begins in Thailand. However, over time, assembling cars in Europe brought the company only losses. In 2012, it was decided to curtail car assembly in Holland.
In 1996, the company develops the revolutionary Mitsubishi GDI engine. It was the first mass-produced engine with direct fuel injection into the cylinders, which was almost as economical as a diesel, but did not lose its power.
In 2000, a generation of L200 pickups was introduced, while the L200 Strada version was created specifically for the Russian market.
To the market Russian Mitsubishi Motors exited in 1991 by partnering with Rolf Import. When the economic crisis hit in 2008, the Russian representative of the Japanese automaker was on the verge of bankruptcy. Then Mitsubishi bought out 40% of its shares.
On December 28, 2007, Mitsubishi Motors signed an agreement on the industrial assembly of cars in Russia. Since 2010, at a plant near Kaluga, together with the French auto company PSA Peugeot Citroën, the Japanese automaker began producing cars. Models are gathering there. Mitsubishi Outlander and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.
Traditionally among the first automakers to implement the most advanced developments, Mitsubishi Motors conducts its own research in the field of creating vehicles with alternative sources nutrition.
In 2009, the Mitsubishi i MiEV is released - a five-door electric hatchback based on the Mitsubishi i model. It is equipped with a 64-horsepower electric motor that accelerates a 1100-kilogram electric car to a speed of 130 km/h.
Initially, the electric car was sold only in Japan. In 2010, he entered the European market, and in 2011 - the American one. However, due to the high price, demand was not impressive.
In 2011 appears updated version model with a reduced price, which was achieved thanks to the use of a lightweight lithium battery. This greatly increased the sales of the model.
Mitsubishi i MiEV is the first electric car to enter the Russian market. It is worth noting that for a long time it remained the only car with an electric motor in our country. In 2014, according to the agency "AUTOSTAT", the model took the second place in popularity among electric cars among Russians after the premium electric sedan Tesla Model S. A total of 27 units of the model were sold.
Mitsubishi i MiEV (2009)
Mitsubishi Motors now has seven research centers, three of which are located outside of Japan. Production facilities are concentrated in six cities in Japan and nine in Europe.
