The history of Mitsubishi Motors dates back to 1870 when Yataro Iwasaki - along with his brother, son, and nephew - came together to create Mitsubishi in Japan. Originally, the company focused on shipping. However, as time went on, it broadened its focus into other areas as well.

Early 1900s

The three-diamond Mitsubishi trademark symbol made its first appearance in 1914. Mitsubishi started developing its first passenger car, the Model-A, in 1917. It then began the manufacturing process for the internal combustion engine in 1921.

1940s

Mitsubishi grew a lot during this decade. It added new production facilities and new vehicles to its lineup, including the three-wheeled cargo carrier Mizushima, the Silver Pigeon scooter, and a Fuso bus.

1950s

As Mitsubishi began producing more automobiles, it created Fuso Motor Sales to focus on this industry. This brought about the Henry J passenger car and the JH4 four-cylinder engine for the Jeep.

1960s

Mitsubishi expanded its global presence in the 1960s with models like the Colt 600, the Mitsubishi 500, Debonair, Minica, and the 360 Pickup and Van.

1970s

In 1970, the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation was officially established to help celebrate the company's 100-year history. The Dodge Colt, which was produced as a joint venture with Chrysler, begins sales in the United States in 1971.

1980s

To help further its growth in America, Mitsubishi Motors Sales America is established in 1981. A few years later, Mitsubishi opens a design center in Cypress, California and a test laboratory in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

1990s

The iconic Lancer Evolution makes its first debut in 1992. In 1999, Mitsubishi set a world record by driving an electric vehicle 2,000 kilometers in just 24 hours.

2000s

With the turn of the century, Mitsubishi became more focused on its environmental impact and future sustainability. It introduced the electric "i" model.

Who knows where the future will take the company? At El Cajon Mitsubishi, we're just happy to be along for the ride.

Car Research for El Cajon, CA

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The History of Mitsubishi Motors: Innovation Through the Decades