Mitsubishi to produce Minicab-MiEV in Indonesia by 2024, will PH get it too?

Mitsubishi announced that it will begin the production of the Minicab-MiEV in Indonesia by 2024.

Production for the kei-car class commercial electric vehicle (EV) will take place at PT Mitsubishi Motors Krama Yudha Indonesia, which marks the first time the one-box commercial kei truck will be built outside of Japan.

To note, the abovementioned Mitsubishi factory in Indonesia has produced models, which are the Pajero Sport (locally known  as the Montero Sport), Xpander, and the Xpander Cross.

“Automakers are now being required to respond to the rapid, global movement toward a decarbonized society. We believe that kei-car class commercial EVs are the optimal solution to the ‘last one-mile problem’ in logistics. In order to meet the growing demand for EVs in the ASEAN region, we have made the decision to produce this vehicle locally outside of Japan for the first time. As well as continuing to support the development of Indonesia's automotive industry, we hope to contribute to the country's environmental initiatives,” said Mitsubishi Motors President and Chief Executive Officer Takao Kato.

According to Mitsubishi, the Minicab-MiEV is equipped with the i-MiEV system that consists of a drive battery and a compact, lightweight, highly-efficient motor.

Its benefits include a large cargo space and a low center of gravity, which results in steering stability and ride comfort.

With its forthcoming arrival in the Southeast Asian automotive scene, many of Mitsubishi's fans wonder if the Minicab-MiEV will ever reach Philippine shores.

Currently, the country is already embracing electric mobility with the passing of the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and the surge of EV charging infrastructures in key areas around the archipelago. However, kei cars are a very niche market in the Philippines as the volume of vehicle buyers getting a crossover is still larger compared to those who prefer small ones.

That said, having the Mitsubishi Minicab-MiEV in the Philippines is quite a long shot — but the possibility is there. As of the moment, we're keeping our fingers crossed. 

With a report from Ruben Manahan IV

Photos from Mitsubishi

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