Mitsubishi Motors PH’s production expansion to boost contribution to local auto industry

MANILA: Mitsubishi Motors Philippines (MMPC) expressed strong belief that the upcoming hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) production would further boost the local automotive industry.

In a statement, MMPC Chairman Noriaki Hirakata said that the firm’s addition of HEV production—which will spur its participation in the Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy (EVIS)—serves as an important step in expanding its local manufacturing portfolio while supporting the government’s vision of strengthening the competitiveness of the Philippine automotive industry.

“Hybrid electric vehicles represent a practical next step for the Philippine market. By expanding our local manufacturing portfolio, we are broadening mobility choices for our customers while supporting the country’s ambition to strengthen its automotive manufacturing capabilities,” Hirakata said.

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MMPC’s participation in the program will be part of the previously announced P7-billion investment, which reflects the company’s long-term business direction of identifying ASEAN as a core growth region, with the Philippines being one of the company’s priority markets.

“MMPC has always taken a long-term view of the Philippines. We see significant opportunities to strengthen local manufacturing, introduce new technologies, and help shape the next chapter of the country’s automotive industry,” he said.

Aside from this, MMPC shared that it is moving toward investing in people, strengthening partnerships with local suppliers, and enhancing the competitiveness of its operations.

“Our ambition extends beyond manufacturing vehicles. We want to help position the Philippines for the future by contributing to a more competitive, innovative, and resilient automotive industry. We believe that is the enduring contribution MMPC can make to the country,” Hirakata added.

Sources told Zigwheels Philippines that the possible model that could start the brand’s HEV production in the country would be the Xpander Hybrid, which is currently available in Thailand. Here are the model’s specifications there.

Mitsubishi Xpander Hybrid: Thailand specs

Under the hood of the Mitsubishi Xpander HEV is a 1.6-liter gasoline engine that goes together with an electric motor and a lithium–ion hybrid battery. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a hybrid transmission. 

Per Mitsubishi Thailand, the internal combustion engine produces the following figures: 

Maximum power (in horsepower [hp>)	93
Maximum torque (in Newton-meters [Nm>)	134

Meanwhile, the electric motor is able to generate up to 114 hp and 255 Nm of torque. 

The model comes with roughly the same interior amenities as the Philippine-spec Xpander. However, it has a more comprehensive safety kit, which includes: 

• Airbags 
• Seatbelts 
• Active yaw control 
• Active stability control 
• Traction control system 
• Hill start assist system 
• Anti-lock braking system 
• Electronic brake-force distribution 
• Brake assist 
• Electronic auto parking brake with brake auto hold 
• Emergency stop signal system 
• Immobilizer system with security alarm system 
• Speed-sensing door locks 
• Child protection door locks 
• Blind spot warning 
• Lane change assist 
• Lane departure warning 
• Rear cross-traffic alert

Also read:

Mitsubishi Motors PH inaugurates latest 3S dealership in Silang, Cavite

Mitsubishi receives 2 awards from PH Red Cross

Mitsubishi reaffirms local HEV production amid EVIS EO signing

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