The Surprising Origins of Mitsubishi: From 1870 Trading Ships to Modern SUVs

When you see the iconic three-diamond emblem on a Mitsubishi vehicle today, you're looking at a symbol that represents more than 150 years of industrial innovation. The story of Mitsubishi Motors begins not with cars, but with ships navigating Japan's waters in 1870. What started as a maritime trading company has evolved into one of the world's most diverse industrial conglomerates, ultimately giving birth to an automotive division that continues to push boundaries in electric vehicle technology and all-wheel drive systems.

The journey from shipping magnate to automotive pioneer reveals a company built on adaptability and engineering excellence. Along the way, Mitsubishi ventured into aircraft manufacturing, heavy machinery, and countless other industries before channelling decades of mechanical expertise into creating vehicles that serve families across Quebec and around the globe.

The Maritime Beginnings: 1870-1900

The Mitsubishi story begins with Yataro Iwasaki, a visionary entrepreneur who transformed a small clan-operated shipping business into Japan's most influential trading company. In 1870, Iwasaki became the manager of Tsukumo Shokai, a company founded by the Tosa Clan. By 1873, he had gained enough influence to rename the company Mitsubishi Shokai and assume the presidency himself.

The name "Mitsubishi" translates to "three diamonds," a symbol that would become one of the most recognizable logos in the world. Iwasaki chose this emblem by combining his family crest (three stacked diamonds) with the three-leaf crest of the Tosa Clan. This merger of symbols represented the unity between traditional Japanese values and modern business practices.

During these early decades, Mitsubishi's fleet of steamships dominated Japan's coastal trade routes. The company's success in maritime logistics provided the foundation for expansion into other industries, establishing a pattern of diversification that would define Mitsubishi for generations to come.

Industrial Expansion: 1900-1950

As the 20th century dawned, Mitsubishi had already established itself far beyond shipping. Under the leadership of successive generations of the Iwasaki family, the company expanded into mining, banking, insurance, and manufacturing. This period saw the emergence of what would become Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, a division that would prove crucial to the company's eventual automotive ambitions.

In 1914, Mitsubishi officially registered its three-diamond trademark, cementing the visual identity that continues to grace vehicles in St-Hubert and beyond. This wasn't merely a bureaucratic formality—it represented the company's confidence in its growing industrial empire and its commitment to quality across all ventures.

The 1940s brought both challenge and opportunity. Mitsubishi's engineering capabilities were redirected toward aircraft manufacturing, with facilities like the Mizushima Aircraft Plant (established in 1943) showcasing the company's ability to tackle complex mechanical challenges. This experience in precision manufacturing and advanced engineering would later prove invaluable when Mitsubishi entered the automotive sector.

Key Industrial Milestones

The path from industrial conglomerate to automotive manufacturer involved several crucial developments:

• 1920: Mitsubishi Internal Combustion Engine Manufacturing Company established Nagoya Plant, marking the company's first serious venture into engine technology
• 1943: Mizushima Aircraft Plant established, developing advanced manufacturing techniques
• 1950: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries split into three separate companies, allowing for more specialized focus
• 1964: The three companies merged to form the new Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, creating the organizational structure that would support automotive development

The Automotive Revolution: 1970 and Beyond

The year 1970 marked a pivotal moment in Mitsubishi's history with the founding of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. This wasn't a complete departure from the company's industrial roots—it was the natural evolution of decades of engine manufacturing experience and mechanical expertise.

Mitsubishi's entry into automotive manufacturing was immediate and innovative. By 1971, the company had delivered its first 10 Minica Van electric vehicles to Tokyo Electric Power Company, establishing a commitment to electric vehicle technology that continues today. This early adoption of electric powertrains positioned Mitsubishi as a pioneer in sustainable transportation, decades before electric vehicles became mainstream.

The 1970s and 1980s saw rapid expansion of Mitsubishi's automotive capabilities. The company developed a series of innovative engines, including the revolutionary "silent shaft" system that won the Technological Development Award from the Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan in 1976. This technology was later offered to prestigious automotive brands including Porsche, Volvo, and SAAB.

Mitsubishi Motors Arrives in Canada: 2002-Present

After more than 130 years of industrial evolution, Mitsubishi Motors officially entered the Canadian market on September 6, 2002. Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada, Inc. (MMSCAN) established its headquarters in Mississauga, Ontario, launching with an initial network of 48 dealers across the country. The timing proved ideal, as Canadian buyers were ready for Mitsubishi's practical approach to automotive engineering.

The Canadian debut began with the first Outlander SUV in 2002, introducing Quebec families to Mitsubishi's approach to three-row utility. This initial success laid the groundwork for an expanding lineup that would eventually include the Mirage subcompact, RVR crossover, Eclipse Cross, and the pioneering Outlander PHEV.

One of Mitsubishi's most significant Canadian contributions came in 2004 with the introduction of the ten-year limited powertrain warranty. This industry-leading coverage quickly became a benchmark for other manufacturers and demonstrated Mitsubishi's confidence in the durability that stemmed from decades of industrial manufacturing experience.

Electric Vehicle Leadership in Canada

Mitsubishi's commitment to electric vehicle technology found particularly fertile ground in Canada. In 2009, the company launched the i-MiEV, recognized as the world's first mass-produced electric car. The following year, Mitsubishi drove the first electric vehicle across Canada, showcasing the practical viability of electric transportation even in the country's challenging climate and vast distances.

The arrival of the Outlander PHEV for the 2018 model year marked another Canadian milestone. As the country's first plug-in hybrid SUV, the Outlander PHEV addressed Canadian buyers' need for all-weather capability while delivering electric efficiency. Canadian buyers embraced this technology, consistently driving record sales in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment and helping establish Canada's leadership in PHEV adoption.

Growth and Innovation Milestones

Several key developments shaped Mitsubishi's Canadian journey:

• 2007: Lancer Evolution debuts with advanced Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) technology
• 2009-2010: i-MiEV launch and first electric vehicle cross-Canada drive
• 2018: Outlander PHEV becomes Canada's first plug-in hybrid SUV
• 2024: "Momentum 2030" business plan announced, promising new vehicle launches through 2030
• 2025: Network expands to nearly 100 dealerships with over 2,100 employees

By 2025, Mitsubishi Motors Canada had achieved nearly 380,000 vehicles sold, with the Outlander PHEV regularly ranking as the country's top-selling plug-in hybrid SUV. This success reflects Canadian buyers' appreciation for Mitsubishi's practical engineering approach and commitment to electrification.

Modern Innovation and Canadian Connection

Today's Mitsubishi Motors continues the company's tradition of engineering innovation while serving Canadian families with practical, reliable vehicles. The current lineup includes the RVR subcompact crossover, Eclipse Cross compact sport utility, and the Outlander family, including the Outlander PHEV plug-in hybrid that builds on Mitsubishi's 50-year leadership in electric vehicle technology.

The company's commitment to all-wheel drive technology, exemplified in systems like Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC), reflects the same engineering excellence that once powered ships across Pacific waters. Modern Mitsubishi vehicles combine this technical heritage with contemporary features like Dynamic Sound Yamaha audio systems and comprehensive safety technologies.

Historical Timeline at a Glance

Experience Mitsubishi's Legacy at Action Mitsubishi

The story of Mitsubishi Motors represents more than industrial evolution—it demonstrates how engineering excellence and adaptability create lasting value. From the maritime trading routes of 1870 to the advanced hybrid powertrains of today, Mitsubishi has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible.

Visit our team at Action Mitsubishi in St-Hubert to experience how this rich heritage translates into modern vehicles designed for Quebec families. Our showroom features the complete Mitsubishi lineup, each model carrying forward the innovative spirit that has defined this remarkable company for more than 150 years.