Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is beefing up its production base in Indonesia by announcing that production of its 100 percent electric light commercial truck, the Minicab EV and the Pajero Sport (aka Montero Sport) have started at PT Mitsubishi Motors Krama Yudha Indonesia (MMKI).
“In 2017, MMKI began production of the Xpander, which is now not only sold domestically in Indonesia, but also exported to support the development of the Indonesian auto industry,” said Takao Kato, president and chief executive officer, Mitsubishi Motors. “With the start of our first production of EVs overseas, we hope to meet the growing demand for EVs in the ASEAN region and at the same time contribute to the country’s environmental initiatives.”
First shown in February, the Minicab EV is a last-mile delivery solution powered by the EV system from the world’s first mass-produced EV, the i-MiEV. Measures such as placing the drive battery under the center of the floor ensure that the EV components can be mounted without sacrificing the vehicle’s large cargo space, while a low center of gravity provides improved stability and ride.
In addition, as part of its broader ASEAN strategy, Mitsubishi will start exporting Montero Sport (Pajero Sport) SUVs. The first customer to benefit is Australia which will switch sourcing from Thailand to Indonesia by the end of the company’s fiscal year (up to March 31).
No word whether Mitsubishi Motors Philippines will bring in the Minicab EV nor if they will switch sourcing of Montero Sport units from Thailand to Indonesia as well. Stay tuned for any updates.
MMPC won't sell the Minicab EV in the Philippine market due to pricing issues and they're not willing to convert it into LHD
ReplyDeleteMinicab EV is meant for Japanese market and RHD markets
Minicab EV still uses the almost two decade old platform of previous generation Minicab
Plant of Mitsubishi in Thailand plans to focus more on the production of Triton and Mirage
Montero Sport made in Indonesia will be fine as the aging matagtag Fortuner sold in the Philippine market is also sourced from Indonesia.
All Mitsubishi models are aging especially the iconic L300 FB so definitely this EV cargo van will make it to the list of the Philippines #2 volume sellers to maintain its position.
ReplyDeletebuti pa sila thriving ang auto manufacturing.......le sigh nalang tayo dito
ReplyDelete