Mitsubishi Prepares for Spring Launches, Will Ramp-Up Production in Japan

Washington DC August 14, 2006; The AIADA newsletter reported that Mitsubishi is relying on its two upcoming models – the 2008 redesigned Lancer sedan and the 2007 Outlander SUV – to be smashing hits in order to make investments in other future models in the U.S., reported Automotive News.

"We believe Outlander will help us establish our image" in the United States, said Shinichi Kurihara, the top product development executive for Mitsubishi. "We hope Outlander will bring new customers to our dealerships."

Preparing for the important spring launches, on Monday the Japanese automaker announced it would double the number of workers at its Okazaki plant in central Japan, hiring 500 to 600 new employees at the facility it planned to close as part of its restructuring, reports Reuters.

The automaker also plans to turn another plant in central Japan from a one-shift operation to a two-shift operation.