MITSUBISHI | Workshop Service Manuals | PDF Downloads
From Samurai Armor to SUVs: A Journey Through Mitsubishi's Diverse History
Mitsubishi. The name evokes images of rugged SUVs like the Pajero and Outlander, high-performance cars like the Lancer Evolution, and even cutting-edge technology. But the story of Mitsubishi is far richer and more diverse than just automobiles. It’s a tale of innovation, adaptation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence that spans over 150 years.
The roots of this global powerhouse lie in 1870, when Yataro Iwasaki, a former samurai from the Tosa clan, founded a shipping firm called Tsukumo Shokai. This small venture, symbolized by three diamond shapes – a combination of the Iwasaki family crest and the Tosa clan emblem – would eventually evolve into the Mitsubishi we know today. The name "Mitsubishi" itself translates to "three diamonds" in Japanese, reflecting this foundational emblem.
In its early years, Tsukumo Shokai (later Mitsubishi Shokai) dominated Japanese maritime transport. Iwasaki displayed shrewd business acumen, leveraging government contracts and strategically navigating the political landscape of a rapidly modernizing Japan. He expanded the business into shipbuilding, mining, and banking, laying the groundwork for a sprawling conglomerate.
Following Yataro Iwasaki's death in 1885, his brother Yanosuke took the helm and further diversified the company. Mitsubishi moved into fields like real estate, warehousing, and insurance, solidifying its position as a key player in Japan's industrial revolution. This period saw the establishment of the Mitsubishi Bank and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, entities that would become crucial components of the future Mitsubishi Group.
The 20th century brought further growth and diversification, with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries taking center stage. In 1917, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding, a division of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, introduced the Model A, Japan's first series-production passenger car. This vehicle, heavily influenced by the Ford Model T, marked Mitsubishi's entry into the automotive world, albeit a humble one.
Throughout the 20th century, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries played a vital role in Japan's war effort, producing military hardware, including aircraft, ships, and tanks. After World War II, the Allied occupation authorities dissolved the Mitsubishi Group into numerous independent companies to decentralize economic power.
Over the following decades, these companies gradually reorganized and re-cooperated, eventually reforming into the Mitsubishi Group we recognize today. Mitsubishi Motors Corporation was formally established in 1970, marking its official independence and focus on automotive production.
The company quickly gained recognition for its engineering prowess and innovation. Mitsubishi developed groundbreaking technologies like silent shaft engine technology and all-wheel-drive systems. The Pajero, launched in 1982, became an icon of off-road performance, dominating the Dakar Rally and cementing Mitsubishi's reputation for rugged reliability.
Mitsubishi's commitment to performance was further exemplified by the legendary Lancer Evolution. Introduced in 1992, this rally-bred machine became a cult classic, renowned for its turbocharged engine, advanced all-wheel-drive system, and exhilarating driving experience. The Lancer Evolution became a benchmark for performance sedans and solidified Mitsubishi's place in automotive history.
In recent years, Mitsubishi has faced various challenges, including fuel economy scandals and financial difficulties. However, the company remains committed to innovation and is focusing on electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Models like the Outlander PHEV demonstrate Mitsubishi's commitment to a more sustainable future.
The story of Mitsubishi is a testament to the power of adaptation and innovation. From its humble beginnings as a shipping firm to its evolution into a global conglomerate with interests spanning automotive, aerospace, and more, Mitsubishi has consistently evolved to meet the changing demands of the world.
While the future remains uncertain, Mitsubishi's legacy of engineering excellence, its diverse portfolio, and its commitment to sustainable technologies suggest that the three diamonds will continue to shine brightly for generations to come. The company's future likely lies in continuing to innovate, particularly in the realm of electrification and sustainable mobility, while leveraging its rich history and expertise to navigate the ever-evolving automotive landscape. Ultimately, Mitsubishi's journey is a compelling reminder that even the most established companies must constantly reinvent themselves to remain relevant and thrive in a competitive world.
