Like many other manufacturers before him, Mitsubishi Motors, in turn, allowed itself to be involved in a great Chinese adventure. After his compatriots (and competitors) Honda, Nissan and Toyota, the Japanese settled in the Celestial Empire in 2012, by establishing a partnership with the state-owned producer GAC, established in Guangzhou (Canton). A late arrival, we know that certain manufacturers such as Volkswagen appeared in 1983, Citroën in 1992. Mitsubishi initially assembled there the same models that are available in most world markets: Pajero, Outlander, ASX and Eclipse Cross.
Eupheme, a new brand shared by Mitsubishi and GAC
In 2018 GAC-Mitsubishi Motors gained momentum, p creating a joint sub-brand: Eupheme. A “scheme” is more than an actual will. In 2019, China introduced new quotas that forced manufacturers selling more than 30,000 cars a year to sell at least 10% of their range as hybrid or electric models. And there you have it, in anticipation of that we launched a “new” brand and two new models at the same time. PHEV based on the Trumpchi GS4 (brand owned by partner GAC), and EV based on Trumpchi GE3. Both were distributed at the same points of sale as Mitsubishi Motors models.
Mitsubishi is leaving China
Finally will have to wait 2022 to see the first new model designed by a joint venture to leave the ground: Airtrek. This is a large compact crossover with a geometric design strong, modern and quite good looking. Its electric motor is developing 184 horsepowerand its 70 kWh battery allows 520 kilometers of autonomy (CLTC cycle). Although it was believed that he was going to restart the Mitsubishi car in China, he eventually witnessed its collapse. Its production was suspended in March 2023 and finally stopped last September.
The brand announced the official cessation of activities in the country, showing sales in freefall due to changes in the market, particularly towards electric energy. The 30% owned by Mitsubishi Motors in the joint venture, as well as the 20% owned by Mitsubishi Corporation, will be transferred to GAC. The manufacturer will now focus on its three key markets : North America, Southeast Asia and Europe…
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Source: Auto Plus
Robert is an experienced journalist who has been covering the automobile industry for over a decade. He has a deep understanding of the latest technologies and trends in the industry and is known for his thorough and in-depth reporting.