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13
MITSUBISHI MOTORS CORPORATION ANNUAL REPORT 2006
all-new suspension, the new
Lancer
delivers a par-
ticularly comfortable ride along with excellent steer-
ing characteristics. These characteristics help to realize
smooth and sporty driving performance. A global rollout
to Japan and other markets is also planned.
MMC plans to introduce an all new
Pajero
(Montero)
in Europe and Japan in fall 2006.
Pajero
(Montero)
has become a symbol of Mitsubishi Motors,
and demand remains especially high for the vehicle
in Europe. Through a subsequent global launch, MMC
plans to stimulate demand in other regions with the
aim of cultivating a global customer base for this
model. Also, the company began production of the
new
Triton (L200)
one-ton pickup truck in Thailand
in 2005. Plans call for exporting this model to mar-
kets around the world, including Europe, Australia,
Central & South America, the Middle East and Africa.
Regional model releases in fiscal year 2006 in-
clude the new
Eclipse Spyder
(U.S.), the
Colt CZC
cabriolet (Europe), and the new
eK Wagon
and
Delica
(Japan). All of these models have gained popularity
Product Development
in their home markets. In particular, the new
Delica
will be the first complete model change in 13 years.
MMC plans to promote the remodeled
Delica
to
180,000 current
Delica
owners.
In Japan, a critical issue is to establish both the
Outlander
SUV and
i
minicar as long-selling models.
A special edition of
Outlander, G-Limited Edition
,
has been introduced with various exterior design
touches and a luxury interior. For
i
, MMC has intro-
duced two special editions—
i Play Edition
, which
features a special slot for an iPod® nano music player
from Apple Computer, plus
i Limited
, which is
equipped with a variety of popular features that ex-
pand the customer base. Furthermore, MMC aims to
make the
i
range even more appealing to a broader
array of customers with the October 2006 introduc-
tion of an
i
model with a non-turbocharged engine.
*Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control system: features
a proprietary continuously variable valve-timing mechanism.
For more than 30 years, MMC has risen to the challenge of various
motor sports events, including international rallies. Participation in
such events has given MMC the opportunity to push its vehicles to the
limit in pursuit of superior safety, durability, and refined drivability
and endurance. The expertise and technology developed in these ac-
tivities are fed back into all of the company’s vehicle development and
manufacturing operations. Motor sports are the embodiment of MMC’s
SUV DNA and Sporty DNA brand concepts, and are essential for refin-
ing technology and providing customers with cars that are both attrac-
tive and safe.
The
Outlander
SUV, launched in October 2005, features all wheel
control (AWC) systems, a technology concept developed at the frontlines
of motor sports. Technologies centered on an electronically controlled
4-wheel-drive system, along with an aluminum roof and mono-tube
rear shock absorbers, contribute to optimal balance and control of all
four wheels. This gives the driver more freedom in steering and deliv-
ers superior overall safety.
Dakar Rally—Sixth Consecutive Win (11th Overall)
MMC is a time-tested veteran of the Dakar Rally, participating in the
race for the 24th time in 2006. It was another year of great success for
the company in this near-legendary event: the first win for Luc Alphand
of France (Mitsubishi
Pajero Evolution
), MMC’s sixth consecutive win,
a new record for the Dakar Rally, and the 11th overall win for the
company. Victory in this grueling event was a great opportunity to once
again showcase the company’s technologies, teamwork and determi-
nation to succeed.
Motor Sports
Suspension of WRC Participation
As part of efforts to accomplish the goals of the Mitsubishi Motors Revi-
talization Plan, MMC has decided not to participate in the 2006 FIA
World Rally Championship (WRC). The decision reflects a determination
to concentrate management resources on carefully selected areas to
ensure that MMC accomplishes the goals of its revitalization plan. How-
ever, MMC will continue to support participation of Mitsubishi drivers in
motor sports. The company aims to return to the WRC as soon as pos-
sible after making a success of the revitalization plan.
MMC plans however to continue to participate in the Dakar Rally.