Mitsubishi CEO Osamu Masuko: We Must Conquer Indonesia`s MPV Mark
15 August 2016 15:38 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Mitsubishi aims to reclaim the MPV market share. The Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show 2016 held in August 2016 is a platform for the Japanese automaker to launch new products that signify a change in its business model. Mitsubishi will launch its low-end MPV, which would be manufactured in a new Rp7.2-trillion factory in Bekasi, currently being constructed.
Mitsubishi Motors Corp. (MMC) President and CEO Osamu Masuko spoke to the Indonesian media about the company's plans, including to Tempo's Praga Utama. Excerpt:
Why did Mitsubishi wait until now to launch an MPV product in Indonesia?
Indonesia's vehicle market is very important to us. We are aware that Indonesian consumers have an affinity for MPVs. Starting this year, we aim to strengthen and affirm our position as a brand for passengers vehicles, not just the commercial one. This new product confirms our position.
What is this car like and what are its appeals?
Our new MPV concept, the XM Concept, will be a crossover between an MPV and an SUV, which is sporty and tough yet convenient for the family. This car is designed to fit seven passengers, running on a 1,500-cc engine with a new platform specifically designed for Indonesia. The XM is our idea for how the automotive industry should make future MPVs; which are cars that can fit a lot of people, but still emphasize on comfort, safety, functionality, and a good design.
The market potential for MPV in Indonesia is still very high and we believe the XM could contribute a large volume. We are confident that we have a very good future in Indonesia; we must conquer its MPV market.
How is the progress of the factory construction in Bekasi?
It is a work in progress that we believe will be completed next year. This plant is very important to us. It is the third largest in Southeast Asia after Thailand and the Philippines. The plant will absorb 3,000 new workers and serve as an export base as well as a spare parts manufacturer. By October 2017, the XM Concept will be mass produced.
The MMC recently acquired Nissan. How does that affect businesses in Indonesia?
Nissan and Mitsubishi will work together to develop vehicle platforms and produce cars together. In addition, our alliance will strengthen the position and competitiveness of both brands, which will remain independent. In the market, we are still competitors. But we will work together in ways that are not visible to consumers. The same goes for our operations in Indonesia. Mitsubishi will proceed to stand alone and continue the works that we started long ago.
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