June 28, 2007 -- Japanese automaker Mitsubishi will have to build a new factory in Brazil if it wants to increase its market share, primarily in the midsized sedan segment, one of the most lucrative product bands for automakers and currently one of the fastest growing. According to Mitsubishi do Brasil president Paulo Ferraz, the multinational "is prospecting" an investment in the market, "but for the time being nothing has been concluded." According to him, the company probably would have to build an assembly plant outside Catalãlo, where it currently has production projected at 30,000 vehicles this year. Ferraz said that forms of investment are being studied, probably in partnership with the Japanese, if indeed the project is carried forward.
With the brand's respect and strength in Brazil, it is probable that Mitsubishi should not stay outside of a competitive segment that could surpass 2.5 million units a year in coming years. Ferraz said that the assembly plant is not the principal component in a sizeable investment. "We would also have to adopt the entire dealership network, currently trained only to sell sophisticated products in the off-road segment. This is a project that must be very well thought out," he said.
Source: Gazeta Mercantil
Source: Factiva
