Audi A3 Sedan Concept

Audi has releases the A3 sedan concept that will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next month. The Audi A3 sedan will be a notchback, as the company calls it and is based on the successor to the Audi A3. This means that the Audi A3 sedan concept will offer a preview of the next generation of the company's popular model.

Audi describes the A3 concept as a "four-seater notchback sedan" and measures in at 174.84-inches long � about six inches longer than the current five-door model. The front fascia is a further evolution of Audi's more aggressive snout, complete with full LED headlamps and new trapezoidal grille. The greenhouse is suitably squat, with an arching roofline that terminates in a thin, low-slung C-pillar to give it the de riguer "four-door coupe" shape.

Under the bonnet the Audi A3 Sedan Concept accommodates a 2.5-litre turbocharged 5-cylinder engine developing 408 bhp which spins all-four wheels through a 7-speed S tronic transmission. The production version of the Audi A3 Sedan Concept is expected to hit the market in 2012, with this new model intended to enhance the automaker's potential on markets where customers prefer sedans rather than hatchbacks.

In terms of design, the Audi A3 sedan features a single-frame grille with tapered upper corners, LED daytime running lights, obviously, and low, flowing roof dome with a coupe style C-pillar. The Audi A3 sedan will fastfivecars probably spawn a production version in the near future.




Press Release

Audi presents A3 concept in Geneva

• Attractive concept car as a four-seater notchback sedan
• Five-cylinder, 300 kW (408 hp) turbocharged engine with quattro drive
• Based on the successor to the Audi A3

Audi will present an attractive technological concept car based on the coming generation of the Audi A3 at the 81st International Geneva Motor Show in early March 2011. The four-seater notchback sedan offers a glimpse of the future expansion of the A3 family.

The sporty yet elegant design of the Audi A3 concept integrates the single-frame grille with its tapered upper corners and headlights with the latest generation of LED technology. The low, flowing roof dome and a coupe-like, low C pillar are among the defining features of the side view.

The Audi A3 concept is 4.44 meters (14.57 feet) long, 1.84 meters (6.04 feet) wide and just 1.39 meters (4.56 feet) high. These proportions emphasize the dynamism of the car's appearance, as do the performance figures for the drive unit. The five-cylinder turbocharged engine has a power output of 300 kW (408 hp). It distributes its power to all four wheels through a seven-speed S tronic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive.

Audi A3 Sedan Concept

Audi has releases the A3 sedan concept that will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next month. The Audi A3 sedan will be a notchback, as the company calls it and is based on the successor to the Audi A3. This means that the Audi A3 sedan concept will offer a preview of the next generation of the company's popular model.

Audi describes the A3 concept as a "four-seater notchback sedan" and measures in at 174.84-inches long � about six inches longer than the current five-door model. The front fascia is a further evolution of Audi's more aggressive snout, complete with full LED headlamps and new trapezoidal grille. The greenhouse is suitably squat, with an arching roofline that terminates in a thin, low-slung C-pillar to give it the de riguer "four-door coupe" shape.

Under the bonnet the Audi A3 Sedan Concept accommodates a 2.5-litre turbocharged 5-cylinder engine developing 408 bhp which spins all-four wheels through a 7-speed S tronic transmission. The production version of the Audi A3 Sedan Concept is expected to hit the market in 2012, with this new model intended to enhance the automaker's potential on markets where customers prefer sedans rather than hatchbacks.

In terms of design, the Audi A3 sedan features a single-frame grille with tapered upper corners, LED daytime running lights, obviously, and low, flowing roof dome with a coupe style C-pillar. The Audi A3 sedan will fastfivecars probably spawn a production version in the near future.




Press Release

Audi presents A3 concept in Geneva

• Attractive concept car as a four-seater notchback sedan
• Five-cylinder, 300 kW (408 hp) turbocharged engine with quattro drive
• Based on the successor to the Audi A3

Audi will present an attractive technological concept car based on the coming generation of the Audi A3 at the 81st International Geneva Motor Show in early March 2011. The four-seater notchback sedan offers a glimpse of the future expansion of the A3 family.

The sporty yet elegant design of the Audi A3 concept integrates the single-frame grille with its tapered upper corners and headlights with the latest generation of LED technology. The low, flowing roof dome and a coupe-like, low C pillar are among the defining features of the side view.

The Audi A3 concept is 4.44 meters (14.57 feet) long, 1.84 meters (6.04 feet) wide and just 1.39 meters (4.56 feet) high. These proportions emphasize the dynamism of the car's appearance, as do the performance figures for the drive unit. The five-cylinder turbocharged engine has a power output of 300 kW (408 hp). It distributes its power to all four wheels through a seven-speed S tronic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive.

Mitsubishi teases Concept Global Small ahead of Geneva debut

It all started with a teaser sketch in early December '10, but today, Mitsubishi released the first real life photo of its Concept Global Small vehicle. The design study previews an upcoming subcompact model that is planned for production in March of 2012 at the Japanese firm's new third factory in Thailand, which will have an initial capacity for around 150,000 units per year.

Read More





Press Release

Mitsubishi Motors Lineup at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show

Tokyo, January 18, 2011 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will give the global premiere of the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small (show model), a concept car based on the features of "compact", "affordability", and "high fuel efficiency" at the 81st Geneva International Motor Show which runs from March 1 through March 13 at the Geneva Palexpo exhibition and conference complex (opening to the general public on March 3). MMC will display a total of 12 vehicles (6 during public days), including vehicles already on sale in Europe, in addition to the 100% electric i-MiEV, of which about 2,500 units have already been shipped to Europe within three months since its start of production and shipment in October 2010.

The MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small is the concept model of the compact passenger vehicle that is planned for production in March of 2012 at the MMC's new third factory in Thailand.

The features of the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small include good maneuverability and easy operation, an inherent of a compact car, accomplished in to a highly efficient package that can comfortably seat five adults. In addition, the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small achieves top-of-class fuel efficiency, with CO2 emissions in the mid-90g/km range due to:

• Usage of an idling stop mechanism
• A 1.0 - 1.2L class compact engine equipped with a regenerative braking system
• Weight trimming to the fastfivecars complex parts
• Reduced running resistance in the engine, new-generation CVT, brakes, and tires
• A body shape that greatly reduces aerodynamic resistance.

Mitsubishi teases Concept Global Small ahead of Geneva debut

It all started with a teaser sketch in early December '10, but today, Mitsubishi released the first real life photo of its Concept Global Small vehicle. The design study previews an upcoming subcompact model that is planned for production in March of 2012 at the Japanese firm's new third factory in Thailand, which will have an initial capacity for around 150,000 units per year.

Read More





Press Release

Mitsubishi Motors Lineup at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show

Tokyo, January 18, 2011 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will give the global premiere of the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small (show model), a concept car based on the features of "compact", "affordability", and "high fuel efficiency" at the 81st Geneva International Motor Show which runs from March 1 through March 13 at the Geneva Palexpo exhibition and conference complex (opening to the general public on March 3). MMC will display a total of 12 vehicles (6 during public days), including vehicles already on sale in Europe, in addition to the 100% electric i-MiEV, of which about 2,500 units have already been shipped to Europe within three months since its start of production and shipment in October 2010.

The MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small is the concept model of the compact passenger vehicle that is planned for production in March of 2012 at the MMC's new third factory in Thailand.

The features of the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small include good maneuverability and easy operation, an inherent of a compact car, accomplished in to a highly efficient package that can comfortably seat five adults. In addition, the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small achieves top-of-class fuel efficiency, with CO2 emissions in the mid-90g/km range due to:

• Usage of an idling stop mechanism
• A 1.0 - 1.2L class compact engine equipped with a regenerative braking system
• Weight trimming to the fastfivecars complex parts
• Reduced running resistance in the engine, new-generation CVT, brakes, and tires
• A body shape that greatly reduces aerodynamic resistance.

2012 Kia Rio

Kia has announced plans to unveil its all-new Rio light car at March's Geneva Motor Show, ahead of its mid-year Australian debut.

The new Rio will be longer and wider, as well as sit lower, than the current model - providing more room while sleeking out the design. According to Kia, the new look of the Rio is meant to "inject emotional appeal into the B-segment" and appeal to that crucial demographic of buyers, 25 to 49 year-olds.

The 2012 Kia Rio also has a character line which offers a sense of movement and fluidity, even when stationary. Kia also says the 2012 Kia Rio has a driver oriented interior and that it anticipates the new gen model will be even more popular than the current one.




Press Release

Next Generation Rio Marks Next Big Step in Kia's Design Revolution

The first official sketches of the next generation Kia Rio revealed today (Wednesday) show a powerful, bold design that marks "the next big step" in the company's ongoing design revolution. Longer, lower and wider than the existing Rio, the new model is designed to inject emotional appeal into the B-segment, targeting progressive, energetic consumers in the 25-to-49 age range. Described by Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, as 'sporty and elegant', the B-segment newcomer has a swept-back profile and a character line rising out of the front wheel which gives it a sense of movement and fluidity, even when stationary. Inside, new Rio will offer a feeling of quality typically associated with larger, more expensive models. The new Kia Rio will make its global debut at the Geneva International Motor Show on Tuesday, March 1, 2011.

2012 Kia Rio

Kia has announced plans to unveil its all-new Rio light car at March's Geneva Motor Show, ahead of its mid-year Australian debut.

The new Rio will be longer and wider, as well as sit lower, than the current model - providing more room while sleeking out the design. According to Kia, the new look of the Rio is meant to "inject emotional appeal into the B-segment" and appeal to that crucial demographic of buyers, 25 to 49 year-olds.

The 2012 Kia Rio also has a character line which offers a sense of movement and fluidity, even when stationary. Kia also says the 2012 Kia Rio has a driver oriented interior and that it anticipates the new gen model will be even more popular than the current one.




Press Release

Next Generation Rio Marks Next Big Step in Kia's Design Revolution

The first official sketches of the next generation Kia Rio revealed today (Wednesday) show a powerful, bold design that marks "the next big step" in the company's ongoing design revolution. Longer, lower and wider than the existing Rio, the new model is designed to inject emotional appeal into the B-segment, targeting progressive, energetic consumers in the 25-to-49 age range. Described by Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, as 'sporty and elegant', the B-segment newcomer has a swept-back profile and a character line rising out of the front wheel which gives it a sense of movement and fluidity, even when stationary. Inside, new Rio will offer a feeling of quality typically associated with larger, more expensive models. The new Kia Rio will make its global debut at the Geneva International Motor Show on Tuesday, March 1, 2011.

Audi A1 Quattro prototype snow testing in Canada

Audi A1 Quattro Prototype was out for a run on snow and ice in Canada. The premium subcompact hatchback features Audi�s famous all-wheel-drive system, which is created to grant perfect traction even in severe road conditions.

Listed simply as a 'one-off development car' during its appearance at the �Fascination of quattro� event taking place in Montreal to celebrate the past, present and future of the legendary four-wheel-drive system, which reached its 30th anniversary in 2010, the pic is the biggest hint that the car will make it to production.

The �A1 quattro� uses technology very similar to that in the A3 and TT. At its core is an electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch located in front of the rear axle for an optimized distribution of weight. Inside is a package of plates that rotate in an oil bath.

It seems likely that the Audi A1 Quattro will get the same engine as the 1.4 TFSI and come in S-Line trim. We do expect a proper Audi S1 to make the cut at some point with more like 210bhp. And when will all this happen? Our bet is quite soon. A1 sales are not as good as Auid expected, and a new halo model or two may help.




Press Release

AUDI A1 QUATTRO PROTOTYPE MAKES A CHILLING DEBUT

• Developmental version of forthcoming all-wheel-drive premium subcompact hatchback is tested on snow-laden roads around Montreal
• Newcomer will ensure quattro has full representation across the Audi range

An Audi A1 quattro prototype that brings all-wheel-drive to the premium subcompact hatchback segment for the first time is currently undergoing a baptism of fire grappling with freezing conditions on Canada's densely snow-packed roads.

The one-off development car is one of the stars of the 'Fascination of quattro' event taking place in Montreal to celebrate the past, present and future of the legendary four-wheel-drive system, which reached its 30th anniversary in 2010. It reaffirms the Vorsprung durch Technik brand's commitment, made at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, to underpin future high performance variants of the A1 with this proven driver aid.

The latest member of the burgeoning quattro family uses technology very similar to that used in A3 and TT models. At its core is an electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch located in front of the rear axle for an optimized distribution of weight. Inside is a package of plates that rotate in an oil bath.

During normal driving, the clutch sends fastfivecars of the engine's power to the front wheels. If the front axle loses grip, the clutch can instantly transfer torque to the rear axle by forcing the plate packages together. A pressure reservoir helps the electric pump to develop the necessary oil pressure.

The UK A1 range currently offers a choice of ten front-wheel-driven models powered by 1.2-litre TFSI (86PS) and 1.4-litre TFSI (122PS) petrol engines and a 1.6-litre TDI (105PS) diesel, and is priced from �13,420 OTR to �18,665 OTR.

Even before it filters into the fastfivecars diminutive of Audi models, the quattro system is already a feature of over 120 variants in the Audi line-up, from the A3 hatchback through to the R8 super car.

Audi A1 Quattro prototype snow testing in Canada

Audi A1 Quattro Prototype was out for a run on snow and ice in Canada. The premium subcompact hatchback features Audi�s famous all-wheel-drive system, which is created to grant perfect traction even in severe road conditions.

Listed simply as a 'one-off development car' during its appearance at the �Fascination of quattro� event taking place in Montreal to celebrate the past, present and future of the legendary four-wheel-drive system, which reached its 30th anniversary in 2010, the pic is the biggest hint that the car will make it to production.

The �A1 quattro� uses technology very similar to that in the A3 and TT. At its core is an electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch located in front of the rear axle for an optimized distribution of weight. Inside is a package of plates that rotate in an oil bath.

It seems likely that the Audi A1 Quattro will get the same engine as the 1.4 TFSI and come in S-Line trim. We do expect a proper Audi S1 to make the cut at some point with more like 210bhp. And when will all this happen? Our bet is quite soon. A1 sales are not as good as Auid expected, and a new halo model or two may help.




Press Release

AUDI A1 QUATTRO PROTOTYPE MAKES A CHILLING DEBUT

• Developmental version of forthcoming all-wheel-drive premium subcompact hatchback is tested on snow-laden roads around Montreal
• Newcomer will ensure quattro has full representation across the Audi range

An Audi A1 quattro prototype that brings all-wheel-drive to the premium subcompact hatchback segment for the first time is currently undergoing a baptism of fire grappling with freezing conditions on Canada's densely snow-packed roads.

The one-off development car is one of the stars of the 'Fascination of quattro' event taking place in Montreal to celebrate the past, present and future of the legendary four-wheel-drive system, which reached its 30th anniversary in 2010. It reaffirms the Vorsprung durch Technik brand's commitment, made at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, to underpin future high performance variants of the A1 with this proven driver aid.

The latest member of the burgeoning quattro family uses technology very similar to that used in A3 and TT models. At its core is an electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch located in front of the rear axle for an optimized distribution of weight. Inside is a package of plates that rotate in an oil bath.

During normal driving, the clutch sends fastfivecars of the engine's power to the front wheels. If the front axle loses grip, the clutch can instantly transfer torque to the rear axle by forcing the plate packages together. A pressure reservoir helps the electric pump to develop the necessary oil pressure.

The UK A1 range currently offers a choice of ten front-wheel-driven models powered by 1.2-litre TFSI (86PS) and 1.4-litre TFSI (122PS) petrol engines and a 1.6-litre TDI (105PS) diesel, and is priced from �13,420 OTR to �18,665 OTR.

Even before it filters into the fastfivecars diminutive of Audi models, the quattro system is already a feature of over 120 variants in the Audi line-up, from the A3 hatchback through to the R8 super car.

2012 Kia Picanto

Kia has released the details and images of the new generation, 2012 Kia Picanto which will have its world premiere at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show.

Designed by the company's European design team in Germany, the 2012 Kia Picanto will be available with four engine choices, ranging from 1.0-litre to 1.2-litres in capacity, among which a new three-cylinder turbo diesel.�

Under the hood, power will be provided by "four all-new powertrains in 1.0- and 1.2-liter displacements." Details are limited, but Kia says they will all deliver "class leading CO2 emissions levels."

Peter Schreyer, Kia�s Chief Design Officer shared: �In profile, new Picanto features significant sculpting and a very prominent rising character line. The result is a layering of light and shadow and this breaks up the height, giving the car a more sure-footed stance.�

Source: Kia




Press Release

Next generation Kia Picanto - a design that's small but grown-up

• Kia releases first official photos of 'mature' and 'sculpted' new model
• Next generation offered in two body styles with four all-new powertrains
• Production vehicle to be revealed at 2011 Geneva Motor Show

(SEOUL) January 4, 2011 - Kia Motors Corporation has released the first official photos of the next generation Picanto city car, which now offers a bolder, more mature and more self confident look.

Completely redesigned and re-engineered, the new car has grown in overall length and wheelbase and is set to redefine its position as one of the fastfivecars competitive vehicles in its segment.

Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, said, "In profile, new Picanto features significant sculpting and a very prominent rising character line. The result is a layering of light and shadow and this breaks up the height, giving the car a more sure-footed stance."

Picanto has never been sold in Australia but Kia Motors Australia has not shut the door on the latest generation.

"While there are no immediate plans to bring Picanto to Australia we have been, and will continue, to look at opportunities in areas in which we do not currently compete," Kia Motors Australia Chief Operating Officer, Mr Tony Barlow, said. "The Picanto now has the advantage of being an all-new car and if it makes sense as a business case then it is certainly not off the agenda."

While the current Picanto is available only as a five-door hatchback, the new generation version will be offered as a five-door globally while a sportier three-door body style will also be marketed in Europe.

The new Picanto will feature four all-new powertrains in 1.0- and 1.2-litre displacements, all boasting class leading CO2 emissions levels. In addition to petrol engines, LPG bi-fuel and flex fuel variations will be available depending on market.

The next generation Picanto will be officially unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show in March when further technical specifications will be available.

2012 Kia Picanto

Kia has released the details and images of the new generation, 2012 Kia Picanto which will have its world premiere at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show.

Designed by the company's European design team in Germany, the 2012 Kia Picanto will be available with four engine choices, ranging from 1.0-litre to 1.2-litres in capacity, among which a new three-cylinder turbo diesel.�

Under the hood, power will be provided by "four all-new powertrains in 1.0- and 1.2-liter displacements." Details are limited, but Kia says they will all deliver "class leading CO2 emissions levels."

Peter Schreyer, Kia�s Chief Design Officer shared: �In profile, new Picanto features significant sculpting and a very prominent rising character line. The result is a layering of light and shadow and this breaks up the height, giving the car a more sure-footed stance.�

Source: Kia




Press Release

Next generation Kia Picanto - a design that's small but grown-up

• Kia releases first official photos of 'mature' and 'sculpted' new model
• Next generation offered in two body styles with four all-new powertrains
• Production vehicle to be revealed at 2011 Geneva Motor Show

(SEOUL) January 4, 2011 - Kia Motors Corporation has released the first official photos of the next generation Picanto city car, which now offers a bolder, more mature and more self confident look.

Completely redesigned and re-engineered, the new car has grown in overall length and wheelbase and is set to redefine its position as one of the fastfivecars competitive vehicles in its segment.

Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, said, "In profile, new Picanto features significant sculpting and a very prominent rising character line. The result is a layering of light and shadow and this breaks up the height, giving the car a more sure-footed stance."

Picanto has never been sold in Australia but Kia Motors Australia has not shut the door on the latest generation.

"While there are no immediate plans to bring Picanto to Australia we have been, and will continue, to look at opportunities in areas in which we do not currently compete," Kia Motors Australia Chief Operating Officer, Mr Tony Barlow, said. "The Picanto now has the advantage of being an all-new car and if it makes sense as a business case then it is certainly not off the agenda."

While the current Picanto is available only as a five-door hatchback, the new generation version will be offered as a five-door globally while a sportier three-door body style will also be marketed in Europe.

The new Picanto will feature four all-new powertrains in 1.0- and 1.2-litre displacements, all boasting class leading CO2 emissions levels. In addition to petrol engines, LPG bi-fuel and flex fuel variations will be available depending on market.

The next generation Picanto will be officially unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show in March when further technical specifications will be available.

Mitsubishi�s global small car to be launched in India

The new small car has a typical Mitsubishi design language except for the fighter jet grille. Guess, Mitsubishi might have skipped this fascia design owing to the car�s small size. Mitsubishi will launch the �close to production� car at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show during March 3 � 13, 2011.

The car will be produced by Mitsubishi Motors Thailand (MMTh) at the site where the new factory is to be built in at the Laem Chabang Industrial Estate in Chonburi province. Initially, the production capacity of this new factory will be around the 150,000-unit per year level, and in the future it can be boosted to the 200,000-unit per year level. The new factory is planned to hire around 3,000 new staffs.

Several pattern sketches give the strong denote of a direction Mitsubishi will take with the automobile, as well as Mitsubishi has pronounced the automobile will get an engine in between 1.0-liters as well as 1.2-liters. Production of the automobile is set to start next year at the brand new bureau in Thailand, that will trade cars to rising markets.

The sale price will be 400,000 baht in Thailand, Masuko said, adding that cars from the new plant would be sold in Japan.

Source: Mitsubishi




Press Release

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Conducts Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for New Factory at Mitsubishi Motors Thailand

Bangkok, December 9, 2010-Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) today conducted a Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for a new third factory of its Thailand producer and distributor, Mitsubishi Motors Thailand (MMTh) at the site where the new factory is to be built in at the Laem Chabang Industrial Estate in Chonburi province. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Thailand's Minister of Industry Chaiwut Bannawat and MMC President Osamu Masuko.

The third factory will be built adjacent to the first and second factories, and is planned to start mass production in March 2012. It will produce the "global small" 1.0-1.2L class compact vehicle that MMC plans to launch in fiscal year 2011. Initially, the production capacity of this new factory will be around the 150,000-unit per year level, and in the future it can be boosted to the 200,000-unit per year level. The new factory is planned to hire around 3,000 new staffs.

The "global small" to be produced at the new factory will be a new vehicle based on a completely new platform currently being developed by MMC with "compact," "affordability," and "fuel efficiency" as the basic concepts for the vehicle. The "global small" will conform to Thailand's Eco-car Project, implemented by the Thai government with the objective of promoting investment in Thailand's automobile industry and reduction of dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions. The "global small" will be positioned as an entry model in MMC's model lineup, and plans are to export the vehicle from Thailand to markets worldwide as a global strategic vehicle that corresponds to both market needs of emerging countries, for which demand for automobiles is expected to increase, and advanced nations, where vehicle downsizing is increasing in order to correspond to energy issues in addition to environmental awareness.

Minister Chaiwut Bannawat expressed his pleasure at the ceremony: "It's my great pleasure that Mitsubishi Motors Thailand's factory becomes a part of our Eco car Project. This Mitsubishi factory will bring to Thailand many technologies for automobile production and lead to improve labor skills for auto industry as well as related industries."

In addition, MMC President Masuko added "It's a great honor to have this memorable day for the construction of the third factory. From the beginning, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has strongly believed in Thailand's potential as the production hub for global markets; now Mitsubishi Motors Thailand became the production base of our 1- ton pickup. We share the Thai government's environmental concerns and we have made Thailand the global production hub for the "global small."

New (third) Factory Outline
Location Laem Chabang Industrial Estate, Chonburi, Thailand
Position About 100km southeast of Bangkok
Factory Summary Built-up vehicle factory (pressing, welding, painting, assembly)
Initial Producton Capacity Around 150,000 units/year
Vehicle Produced �Global small�
Start of Mass Production March 2012
Employees Approximately 3,000

Mitsubishi�s global small car to be launched in India

The new small car has a typical Mitsubishi design language except for the fighter jet grille. Guess, Mitsubishi might have skipped this fascia design owing to the car�s small size. Mitsubishi will launch the �close to production� car at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show during March 3 � 13, 2011.

The car will be produced by Mitsubishi Motors Thailand (MMTh) at the site where the new factory is to be built in at the Laem Chabang Industrial Estate in Chonburi province. Initially, the production capacity of this new factory will be around the 150,000-unit per year level, and in the future it can be boosted to the 200,000-unit per year level. The new factory is planned to hire around 3,000 new staffs.

Several pattern sketches give the strong denote of a direction Mitsubishi will take with the automobile, as well as Mitsubishi has pronounced the automobile will get an engine in between 1.0-liters as well as 1.2-liters. Production of the automobile is set to start next year at the brand new bureau in Thailand, that will trade cars to rising markets.

The sale price will be 400,000 baht in Thailand, Masuko said, adding that cars from the new plant would be sold in Japan.

Source: Mitsubishi




Press Release

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Conducts Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for New Factory at Mitsubishi Motors Thailand

Bangkok, December 9, 2010-Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) today conducted a Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for a new third factory of its Thailand producer and distributor, Mitsubishi Motors Thailand (MMTh) at the site where the new factory is to be built in at the Laem Chabang Industrial Estate in Chonburi province. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Thailand's Minister of Industry Chaiwut Bannawat and MMC President Osamu Masuko.

The third factory will be built adjacent to the first and second factories, and is planned to start mass production in March 2012. It will produce the "global small" 1.0-1.2L class compact vehicle that MMC plans to launch in fiscal year 2011. Initially, the production capacity of this new factory will be around the 150,000-unit per year level, and in the future it can be boosted to the 200,000-unit per year level. The new factory is planned to hire around 3,000 new staffs.

The "global small" to be produced at the new factory will be a new vehicle based on a completely new platform currently being developed by MMC with "compact," "affordability," and "fuel efficiency" as the basic concepts for the vehicle. The "global small" will conform to Thailand's Eco-car Project, implemented by the Thai government with the objective of promoting investment in Thailand's automobile industry and reduction of dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions. The "global small" will be positioned as an entry model in MMC's model lineup, and plans are to export the vehicle from Thailand to markets worldwide as a global strategic vehicle that corresponds to both market needs of emerging countries, for which demand for automobiles is expected to increase, and advanced nations, where vehicle downsizing is increasing in order to correspond to energy issues in addition to environmental awareness.

Minister Chaiwut Bannawat expressed his pleasure at the ceremony: "It's my great pleasure that Mitsubishi Motors Thailand's factory becomes a part of our Eco car Project. This Mitsubishi factory will bring to Thailand many technologies for automobile production and lead to improve labor skills for auto industry as well as related industries."

In addition, MMC President Masuko added "It's a great honor to have this memorable day for the construction of the third factory. From the beginning, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has strongly believed in Thailand's potential as the production hub for global markets; now Mitsubishi Motors Thailand became the production base of our 1- ton pickup. We share the Thai government's environmental concerns and we have made Thailand the global production hub for the "global small."

New (third) Factory Outline
Location Laem Chabang Industrial Estate, Chonburi, Thailand
Position About 100km southeast of Bangkok
Factory Summary Built-up vehicle factory (pressing, welding, painting, assembly)
Initial Producton Capacity Around 150,000 units/year
Vehicle Produced �Global small�
Start of Mass Production March 2012
Employees Approximately 3,000

2012 Kia Picanto

Kia has released the first teaser images of the 2012 Picanto, which offers a general view of the next generation model. The world debut of the 2012 Kia Picanto will take place next year, at the Geneva International Motor Show in March 2011.

Styled at the company's European design studio, the new Picanto promises "to stand out from the crowd" by "exuding self confidence, solidity and maturity." Furthermore, it will be�available�in three- and five-door configurations.

With an exterior that looks more confident and mature, the new Kia Picanto will go on sale across UK in Spring 2011, although no details regarding motorisation and pricing are available at this moment.




Press Release

Kia sketches out future with 'stand-out' newcomer

• Kia reveals first design sketches of stylish next generation Picanto city car
• Newcomer brings confidence, solidity and maturity to the A-segment
• Production vehicle to be unveiled at 2011 Geneva Motor Show
• On sale in the UK from late Spring 2011

Kia has today released the first official design sketches of the next generation Picanto city car designed to stand out from the crowd.

The new model has been styled by Kia's European design team based in Frankfurt, Germany, under the direction of Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer.

Exuding self confidence, solidity and maturity, the next generation Picanto is designed to break the city car mould and will be officially unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show in March 2011 and will be on sale in the UK from late spring.

2012 Kia Picanto

Kia has released the first teaser images of the 2012 Picanto, which offers a general view of the next generation model. The world debut of the 2012 Kia Picanto will take place next year, at the Geneva International Motor Show in March 2011.

Styled at the company's European design studio, the new Picanto promises "to stand out from the crowd" by "exuding self confidence, solidity and maturity." Furthermore, it will be�available�in three- and five-door configurations.

With an exterior that looks more confident and mature, the new Kia Picanto will go on sale across UK in Spring 2011, although no details regarding motorisation and pricing are available at this moment.




Press Release

Kia sketches out future with 'stand-out' newcomer

• Kia reveals first design sketches of stylish next generation Picanto city car
• Newcomer brings confidence, solidity and maturity to the A-segment
• Production vehicle to be unveiled at 2011 Geneva Motor Show
• On sale in the UK from late Spring 2011

Kia has today released the first official design sketches of the next generation Picanto city car designed to stand out from the crowd.

The new model has been styled by Kia's European design team based in Frankfurt, Germany, under the direction of Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer.

Exuding self confidence, solidity and maturity, the next generation Picanto is designed to break the city car mould and will be officially unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show in March 2011 and will be on sale in the UK from late spring.