The latest twist regarding Mitsubishi's position in Europe will see the Japanese brand build new models at Renault factories. Mitsubishi had previously announced that it would leave the European market gradually by no longer developing new cars for the region. As part of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, starting in 2023, Mitsubishi Motors will now sell two "sister models" based on Renault platforms.
A statement released by the Alliance says that Mitsubishi will have a model range that includes a plug-in hybrid version of the Eclipse Cross and the Renault-derived models. There has been no official word on precisely which models these will be or how different they would be from the Renault model. With a growing shift towards electrification, and with Mitsubishi tending to offer smaller sized cars in Europe, it is possible that a redesigned fully electric model, based on the Renault Zoe, could be introduced, potentially using the Colt name.
An official statement added: "It is too early to elaborate, in essence it will be models that complement the newly launched Eclipse Cross PHEV, with an angle on electrification and the focus will be on core segments of the European market."
Commenting on the announcement, Mitsubishi Motors CEO, Takao Kato, said: "Mitsubishi Motors welcomes Renault's OEM models for the European market, and ultimately new customers. Mitsubishi Motors has been implementing structural reforms in Europe and our decision to freeze new car development for the European Market, announced in July 2020 in our mid-term business plans, remains. However, the OEM supply agreement will provide us with a solution to offer new products developed and manufactured in Europe alongside our ongoing after-sales business."
"Our new approach within the Alliance, focusing on impactful and meaningful projects, is turning into reality. This pragmatic, value-driven initiative will make a difference in our plants, in our partner's footprint and on the European streets. This beautiful project meets all partners' expectations from a design, regulatory and business perspective. This is what the Alliance is meant for and we are very happy, at Groupe Renault, to contribute to this new step in its history of cooperation," said Luca de Meo, CEO Groupe Renault.
No change in situation for Mitsubishi in Ireland
Despite this glimmer of hope for Mitsubishi in Europe, the plans will relate only to cars produced for the left-hand drive market. That means no U-turn for the plan to gradually wind up sales of new models here in Ireland as existing models reach the end of their respective model cycles. However, the aftersales, parts and servicing support will remain in place for current owners.