Mitsubishi Motors’ 2023 Sales Results of Automobiles in Japan

Mitsubishi Motors’ vehicle sales in Japan in 2023 increased by 14.6% from the previous year to 103,738 units, going up for the third consecutive year. Although it appears that parts supply shortage is no longer an issue, Mitsubishi Motors said that the backlog of orders as of the end of October 2023 has not been resolved, and the impact of the semiconductor shortage continues. The company’s market share inched up by 0.4 points to 2.6%, exceeding the previous year.

Looking at domestic sales volume by model in 2023, the most notable increases were achieved by light BEVs such as the Minicab-MiEV, which resumed sales at the end of 2022 (up 75.1% year-on-year to 2,772 units), and the eK X EV, which was released in 2022 (up 68.2% to 7,021 units). In addition, sales of the Delica Mini, which was released sales in 2023, far exceeded the sales volume of the previously mainstay Outlander, making it a strong year for light vehicles. Since the cruising range has been extended compared to the previous model, further growth in sales is expected in the future. On the other hand, sales in the standard vehicle market decreased 6.7% year on year to 45,877 units, due to the decline in sales of the Outlander PHEV.

The share of electric vehicles dropped to 27.8%, down 3.4 points from the previous year. The Outlander PHEV, which accounted for more than half of all electric vehicle sales last year, fell below 50%, while light BEVs accounted for over 30% in total.

In January 2024, Mitsubishi Motors began leasing sales of chargers and V2H to promote sales of electric vehicles (BEV / PHEV). This plan supports the purchase of electric vehicles by reducing the initial installation cost. Previously chargers and other items required a separate contract. Mitsubishi Motors has announced a focus on peripheral equipment and services in its medium-term business plan through 2025. The company aims to expand sales by differentiating itself not only with its vehicles but also with its sales methods.