When the business climate is unfavorable, it's always a good idea for automakers to pack up and move production elsewhere. As sad as Mitsubishi will be to leave Europe, this is what they must do. In order to pursue more stable operating grounds elsewhere, Mitsubishi has opted to end manufacturing at its NedCar plant in the Netherlands.

Taking into consideration the rising strength of the Yen and its effect on international competition, Osamu Masuko, President of Mitsubishi Motors, says, "Further investment to continue production at NedCar would not be economically feasible."¹

Currently, the automaker's facility in the town of Born operates at only half of its potential capacity, manufacturing the Mitsubishi Outlander and Mitsubishi Colt. Of course, just because our favorite automotive brand won't be cranking the production wheels in Western Europe any longer, doesn't mean the people of Born will be without new Mitsubishi models. Company officials assure consumers that the European automotive market will continue to see its share of imported Mitsubishi vehicles for years to come.

Right now, Mitsubishi engineers have their eyes on lands that are currently in their prime of growth such as Indonesia. In fact, the automaker already broke ground on a plant there earlier this year. Mitsubishi will also continue to sell vehicles in Europe that are built in Thailand and Japan.

As Mitsubishi shifts its production position and opens up new factories elsewhere, Lovering Mitsubishi promises to stay up to date with all the latest news and information. If you'd like to follow along, simply stay tuned to our Mitsubishi blog or come talk with us in person at 95 Manchester Street Concord, NH 03301.

Source: ¹http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204136404577206222024316992.html