History of Mitsubishi

Since its founding in 1870 as a shipping company, the Mitsubishi brand has stood for both tradition and progress. You probably already know some facts about the long and eventful history of the Japanese automotive giant, but we will focus on the points that are particularly important for you as a professional dealer.

Beginnings and Expansion Phases

The company’s origins lie in shipping, but its diversification into the automotive industry only began in 1917 with the introduction of the “Model A.” Even at this early stage, Mitsubishi impressed with its pioneering role in the mass production of cars in Japan. The 1960s and 1970s were marked by expansion and growth. During this time, Mitsubishi consolidated its position in the global market, particularly through exports to the USA and collaborations with other automakers.

Technological Milestones

The brand’s developments have always been characterized by its courage to innovate. In 1970, Mitsubishi launched the first turbocharged car produced in Japan, the Galant GTO MR. Equally revolutionary was the introduction of the “Super Shift,” which had a lasting impact on the automotive industry and paved the way for new avenues in transmission technology. In 1991, Mitsubishi created the 3000GT, a sports car that is considered a technological milestone, featuring all-wheel drive and all-wheel steering.

The Era of Green Driving

Over the past two decades, Mitsubishi has steadily developed into a pioneer in the field of green mobility. With the launch of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV in 2009, the world’s first mass-produced electric car, the company set new standards in sustainable driving. Mitsubishi’s history is a testament to its continuous efforts in innovation and improved technology, solely to offer you, as a professional, forward-looking, high-quality, and sustainable vehicles. It is precisely this blend of tradition and progress that continues to characterize Mitsubishi to this day and makes its vehicles so attractive to many car enthusiasts. Use this knowledge to inform your strategies and business decisions. It’s not just the technology that defines a Mitsubishi, but the rich history behind it.

Mitsubishi Today

Mitsubishi, a renowned Japanese vehicle manufacturer, remains a major player on the world automotive stage. Today, the company produces a range of vehicles recognized for their quality, efficiency, and reliability.

Global Footprint

Mitsubishi’s presence in the global automotive market is unmistakable. The company has production facilities, distribution centers, and research and development facilities in numerous countries around the world, with a particular focus on the most powerful automotive sales markets, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Japan itself. In terms of market share, Mitsubishi achieves solid figures. The group has demonstrated the resilience to hold its own in a highly competitive and volatile environment. While it may not be able to compete with the very large manufacturers such as Volkswagen or Toyota, it has firmly established itself in the second tier of the global automotive industry. Mitsubishi’s product range extends from small cars to SUVs, from rugged pickup trucks to economical electric and hybrid vehicles. This broad portfolio reflects the company’s ability to respond to diverse customer needs and changing market conditions.

Economic Performance

Mitsubishi’s financial performance is a true sign of strength. Despite a challenging economic environment and strong competition, the company demonstrates impressive financial stability. Mitsubishi is also known for its business strategies aimed at sustainable growth and customer satisfaction.

Collaborative Alliances

A smart strategy of Mitsubishi’s is to form alliances with other automakers. One of the most well-known partnerships is the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. Through this collaboration, Mitsubishi can share its technology and innovation with others while benefiting from the progress made by its partners. In summary, Mitsubishi is today a company that is constantly evolving and adapting to meet the growing and changing needs of motorists worldwide. With a combination of technological innovation, financial robustness, and a customer-centric approach, Mitsubishi remains a major player in the global automotive industry.

Mitsubishi Vehicle Classes

Over the course of its more than 100-year history, Mitsubishi has launched an impressive range of vehicle classes. As a market leader in technology, Mitsubishi offers several vehicle classes aimed at numerous customer segments. These categories are examined in more detail below.

Mitsubishi Small and Compact Cars

Starting with the smaller models, Mitsubishi offers a range of small and compact cars that are ideal for urban driving or smaller families. Vehicles such as the Mirage and the Space Star are known for their efficiency and handling in the city.

Mitsubishi Midsize Cars and Sedans

Mitsubishi has also made a name for itself in the midsize car and sedan category. Models such as the Galant and the Lancer have gained worldwide recognition in their segment, primarily for their reliable performance and high level of comfort.

Mitsubishi SUVs and Crossovers

One segment in which Mitsubishi is particularly strong is that of SUVs and crossovers. Models such as the Outlander, the Eclipse Cross, and the ASX have made Mitsubishi one of the leading brands in this field. These vehicles are known for their robustness, spacious interiors, and off-road capability.

Mitsubishi Electric Vehicles and Hybrid Models

Mitsubishi has placed great emphasis on the development of electric vehicles and hybrid models in recent years. With the i-MiEV, Mitsubishi launched one of the first mass-market electric cars. Furthermore, the Outlander PHEV, as one of the first plug-in hybrid SUVs in Europe, made a strong statement toward green mobility.

Future Direction of Vehicle Classes

Regarding the future direction of its vehicle classes, Mitsubishi is expected to continue to focus on electric mobility and hybrid vehicles to both comply with environmental laws and meet consumer needs. Mitsubishi is also likely to remain strong in the SUV and crossover categories, possibly with further investments in models that combine urban and off-road capability. In conclusion, Mitsubishi offers a wide range of vehicle classes, allowing it to meet a variety of customer needs. With its increasing focus on electric mobility and hybrid technology, Mitsubishi demonstrates its readiness to face the challenges of the future while continuing its tradition of innovation and quality.

Innovation and Technology at Mitsubishi

In general, Mitsubishi is known as an automaker that keeps innovation and advanced technology at the top of its priority list. They have consistently proven themselves when it comes to identifying and implementing emerging trends early on.

Autonomous Driving

A significant example of Mitsubishi’s progressiveness is the development of autonomous driving systems. With increased research and development efforts, Mitsubishi aims to offer vehicles that are not only safer, but also more convenient and efficient. They are continuously working on improving their autonomous driving technologies, from adaptive cruise control and traffic sign recognition to advanced systems that enable partially or even fully autonomous driving.

E-Mobility and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology

In addition, Mitsubishi is also setting new standards in the field of e-mobility and hydrogen fuel cell technology. They are among the first manufacturers to launch a production vehicle with an innovative plug-in hybrid powertrain. They are also intensively researching hydrogen fuel cell technology to create a zero-emission and sustainable vehicle.

Connected Vehicles and Internet of Things (IoT)

The increasing connectivity of vehicles also plays a crucial role at Mitsubishi. They are integrating IoT-based systems to improve vehicle safety and performance. One example is the Mitsubishi Remote Control System, which can monitor vehicle status in real time and allows various vehicle functions to be controlled remotely.

Integration of Health Sensors and Monitors

Mitsubishi has also begun integrating health sensors and monitors into its vehicles. This offers drivers the ability to monitor their health while driving and can be lifesaving in an emergency.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in Automotive

In the area of AR and VR, Mitsubishi has also taken steps to implement these technologies in its vehicles. AR and VR allow drivers to enjoy an enhanced driving experience, as these technologies can, among other things, help present information in innovative and user-friendly ways. Overall, the ability to anticipate and implement emerging technologies early is a key element of Mitsubishi’s strategy. Their efforts in these areas have helped them stay at the forefront of the automotive industry and continue to offer vehicles that meet today’s ever-changing needs.

Mitsubishi and Sustainability

Mitsubishi is a brand that continually strives for solutions to reduce its ecological impact and make its products and services more sustainable. Its efforts in this area are reflected in a variety of initiatives and strategies that are reflected in both its production and its vehicles.

Sustainable Production

To reduce the environmental footprint of its production, Mitsubishi has implemented measures for energy and water efficiency, as well as waste reduction. Through the use of innovative technologies and the continuous improvement of its production processes, the company has managed to significantly reduce energy consumption and emissions in its factories.

Sustainable Vehicles

Regarding its vehicles, Mitsubishi has a clear strategy for the electrification of its fleet. With its attractive range of hybrid and electric vehicles, Mitsubishi aims to drastically reduce CO2 emissions per vehicle. Furthermore, Mitsubishi is committed to researching and developing technologies that make vehicles more efficient and cleaner, for example, through the improvement of battery technology or the development of fuel cell vehicles.

Impact on the Used Car Market

Mitsubishi’s sustainability efforts also have an impact on the used car market. The increasing electrification and associated environmental benefits of Mitsubishi vehicles can positively impact their attractiveness and value in the used car market. As more consumers and businesses seek more sustainable transportation options, used Mitsubishi cars—particularly hybrid and electric models—may represent an increasingly attractive option. In conclusion, Mitsubishi’s sustainability efforts not only help reduce its environmental impact but can also have a significant impact on the used car market. This sustainability strategy can prove to be a valuable competitive advantage for both the company itself and car dealers offering used Mitsubishi cars.

Used Car Market Analysis for Mitsubishi

Anyone involved in the used Mitsubishi vehicle trade will encounter an exciting and diverse market. Below, you’ll learn what characterizes this special sector and what special features need to be considered.

Diverse Supply and High Demand

The used car market for Mitsubishi is characterized by a broad offering. From small cars to mid-size vehicles to SUVs, Mitsubishi offers a range of vehicles that covers all segments. This leads to high demand, as there is a suitable vehicle for every taste and every need.

Good Vehicle Value Retention

A special aspect that characterizes the used car market for Mitsubishi is the good value retention of the vehicles. Mitsubishi models score points for their longevity and robust technology. They retain a relatively high residual value, even after several years of operation and high mileage. This makes trading in used Mitsubishi vehicles particularly attractive.

Popular Models

Some models are particularly popular on the used car market. The Outlander, as an SUV, enjoys high demand, as do the Space Star subcompact and the sporty Lancer sedan. These models often sell quickly and generate good sales prices.

Future Prospects

The future of the used car market for Mitsubishi looks promising. With the growing popularity of hybrid and electric vehicles, such as the Outlander PHEV, interest in used models of this type is also increasing. Specializing in such vehicles early on can be worthwhile. The bottom line is that trading in used Mitsubishi vehicles is an attractive business. However, it requires in-depth expertise and careful market observation to fully exploit potential and minimize risks. Those who intensively engage with the specifics of the market can operate successfully in the long term.

Purchasing Used Mitsubishi Vehicles

In the hectic day-to-day operations of a car dealership, purchasing used vehicles represents a fundamental pillar of business operations. At the heart of this is the Mitsubishi brand, which occupies a significant position in the automotive industry thanks to its reliable technology and attractive model range.

Understanding Purchase and Acquisition

First of all, a clear understanding of purchase and acquisition is essential in order to adequately integrate both concepts into the business model. Purchase refers to the process by which your car dealership acquires a used Mitsubishi vehicle directly from a previous owner. This process includes the evaluation of the vehicle, negotiation of the purchase price, and any necessary repairs or maintenance work in preparation for resale. Purchase, on the other hand, refers to the situation in which the car dealership acquires a vehicle from another dealer or platform to add it to its own portfolio. Compared to purchasing from private individuals, purchasing tends to involve more risks, as the vehicle’s history or its actual condition compared to the description are often not fully known.

Reasoning for Purchasing

Focusing on purchasing used Mitsubishi vehicles brings several advantages. One of the biggest is the control over the entire process. By conducting the purchase yourself, you have the opportunity to thoroughly inspect the vehicle, assess its actual condition, and negotiate a fair price with the previous owner. Furthermore, purchasing directly offers the opportunity to build a personal relationship with the previous owner, which can have a positive impact on the customer experience and satisfaction. This is especially valuable because satisfied customers are more likely to leave positive feedback and recommend your dealership to others. Another advantage of purchasing is the opportunity to optimally prepare the vehicle for sale. By conducting the inspection and any repair work, you can ensure that the vehicle is in top condition before it is resold. This not only increases the potential resale value of the vehicle, but also improves the buyer’s experience, thus positively impacting your company’s reputation.

Conclusion

In summary, purchasing used Mitsubishi vehicles can be a strategic choice that, if well-considered and executed, can make a significant contribution to your business success. It allows you to maintain quality control over the vehicle, increase customer satisfaction, and, in the long run, strengthen your reputation in the automotive industry.

Purchasing Used Mitsubishi Vehicles

As a professional player in the automotive market, you know that purchasing used vehicles can be a crucial strategy for the success of your dealership. You can reap significant benefits, especially when purchasing Mitsubishi vehicles.

Strategic Enrichment of the Vehicle Inventory

In contrast to vehicle purchases, where private individuals sell their vehicles to the dealership, the focus of purchasing is on the strategic acquisition of vehicles from other dealers, fleets, or auctions. This allows you to specifically close gaps in your vehicle range and meet specific customer requirements. For the Mitsubishi brand, which covers various vehicle classes from small cars to commercial vehicles, this means you can have a broader range of vehicles in your inventory.

Adaptability to Market Trends

Purchasing used Mitsubishi vehicles allows you to respond more quickly to market trends and customer demands. By selectively acquiring vehicles that are currently in high demand, you can boost your sales and strengthen your competitive position.

Quality Control and Expertise

When purchasing used Mitsubishi vehicles, you benefit from the opportunity to assess the quality of the vehicles yourself and only include vehicles of high standards in your inventory. This allows you to offer your customers the quality and reliability they expect from a reputable dealership. It is important to view acquisition as a long-term strategy that expands your team’s skills and expertise in evaluating and selecting vehicles. With the Mitsubishi brand, known for its technology and innovation, this is an invaluable advantage.

Optimization of Downtime and Sales

Finally, purchasing used Mitsubishi vehicles allows for better control of your vehicles’ downtime and can thus contribute to more efficient sales. By selectively selecting vehicles with a high turnaround rate, you can increase the profitability of your dealership. In summary, purchasing used Mitsubishi vehicles is an important strategy for you to make your car dealership more efficient, diversify your vehicle offerings, and respond to changing customer needs.

Standstill Times for Used Mitsubishi Vehicles at Car Dealers

In the challenging used car business, standstill times play a crucial role. Efficient management of vehicle inventories is essential, especially for renowned brands like Mitsubishi. Before we get a concrete picture of standstill times for used Mitsubishi vehicles at car dealerships, let’s take a look at the reasons why a quick turnaround time is crucial for dealers.

Why a quick turnaround time is important

There’s a simple rule: the shorter the standstill time, the better for the car dealer. Every day a used car sits in the yard costs money. This includes more than just the costs of care, maintenance, and insurance. Opportunity costs are also involved, as the free space could be used for other purposes. Furthermore, a longer standstill period tends to deteriorate the vehicle’s condition and can lead to a drop in price.

Standstill Times of Used Mitsubishi Vehicles

For used Mitsubishi vehicles, standstill times vary depending on the model, condition, price, and, of course, market demand. Generally, an average standstill time of 60 to 90 days is assumed. However, car dealers strive to significantly reduce this period.

Measures to Reduce Standstill Times

Various strategies exist to minimize the standstill times of used Mitsubishi vehicles. Effective pricing plays a crucial role in this. Furthermore, active marketing—both online and offline—is crucial to making the vehicles accessible to a broad audience. Adherence to high quality standards and thorough vehicle preparation ensure that the vehicles are attractive to potential buyers. Comprehensive services, such as warranties or financing offers, can also help reduce standstill times. In conclusion, despite Mitsubishi’s brand image and the popularity of its vehicle models, car dealers must always strive to keep standstill times as short as possible. With the right strategies and a well-organized business process, this goal can be achieved effectively.

FAQ

What are the key factors to consider when purchasing a used Mitsubishi?


When buying a used Mitsubishi, it’s essential to evaluate its maintenance history, mileage, and overall condition. It’s also important to research common issues related to specific models and ensure you have clear title documentation. A thorough inspection by a trusted mechanic can help uncover any hidden problems.

How can I verify the reliability of a used Mitsubishi model?


You can validate the reliability of a used Mitsubishi model by checking consumer reviews, expert ratings, and reliability scores from reputable automotive sources. Websites like Consumer Reports or J.D. Power provide valuable insights into which models have consistently performed well over time.

What should I know about warranty options for used Mitsubishis?


Mitsubishi typically offers certified pre-owned warranties that extend coverage beyond the regular factory warranty period, providing added peace of mind when purchasing a used vehicle. Be sure to ask about any existing warranties during your negotiations and evaluate if an extended plan might be beneficial.

Are there financing options available for buying a used Mitsubishi?


Yes, many dealerships provide financing options specifically tailored for purchasing used vehicles. Additionally, banks and credit unions often offer competitive rates for auto loans on pre-owned cars. It’s wise to shop around for the best terms and interest rates before making your final decision.