In a move that signals a new era of global collaboration in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, Mitsubishi Motors has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Foxtron Vehicle Technologies, a subsidiary of Foxconn, to outsource the development of a new EV model. This strategic partnership aims to accelerate Mitsubishi’s electrification plans and bring a fresh, high-tech electric vehicle to the Oceania market by the second half of 2026.
The Partnership: Mitsubishi Motors and Foxtron
Under the agreement, Foxtron will design and develop the new EV, which will be manufactured in Taiwan by Yulon Motor, a long-standing partner in the region. The finished vehicle will be introduced in Australia and New Zealand, marking Mitsubishi’s first major EV launch in Oceania developed outside its traditional in-house R&D (Mitsubishi Motors, US News).
This collaboration leverages Foxtron’s expertise in contract design and manufacturing services (CDMS), using modular, open platforms to speed up EV development and reduce costs. Yulon’s Sanyi plant in Taiwan will handle production, with both left-hand and right-hand drive versions planned for global reach (Digitimes).
Why This Matters: A New Model for EV Development
Mitsubishi’s decision to outsource EV development to Foxconn’s Foxtron is a significant shift in the automotive landscape. It reflects a growing trend where traditional automakers partner with tech-driven contract manufacturers to stay competitive in the fast-evolving EV market. Foxconn, best known for assembling iPhones, is rapidly expanding its automotive ambitions, aiming to become a global EV powerhouse.
The new EV will feature advanced driving performance and a state-of-the-art infotainment system, tailored for the needs of Oceania’s consumers. This model is part of Mitsubishi’s broader strategy to electrify its lineup and achieve carbon neutrality by 2035, complementing its existing plug-in hybrid and hybrid offerings in other regions (Foxtron).
Mitsubishi-Foxconn EV Collaboration: Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Agreement | MOU signed May 2025 |
| Development Partner | Foxtron Vehicle Technologies (Foxconn subsidiary) |
| Manufacturing Partner | Yulon Motor, Taiwan |
| Target Markets | Australia, New Zealand (Oceania) |
| Launch Timeline | Second half of 2026 |
| Key Features | Advanced EV performance, modern infotainment, modular platform |
| Strategic Goal | Accelerate electrification, expand global EV presence |
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the significance of Mitsubishi outsourcing EV development to Foxconn?
This partnership allows Mitsubishi to leverage Foxconn’s rapid development and manufacturing capabilities, helping it bring new EVs to market faster and more cost-effectively.
Q2: Where will the new Mitsubishi EV be sold first?
The new EV will debut in Australia and New Zealand, with potential for expansion to other markets.
Q3: Who will manufacture the new Mitsubishi EV?
Yulon Motor in Taiwan will handle production, using Foxtron’s design and platform.
Q4: What are the expected features of the new EV?
The vehicle will offer dynamic electric driving, advanced infotainment, and be built on a modular, scalable platform.
Q5: How does this fit into Mitsubishi’s global EV strategy?
It complements Mitsubishi’s electrification push, which includes plug-in hybrids and collaborations with Renault and Nissan in other regions.
Mitsubishi’s alliance with Foxconn’s Foxtron marks a bold step into the future of electric mobility, blending Japanese automotive heritage with Taiwanese tech innovation. As the EV race heats up, such collaborations are set to redefine how cars are designed, built, and delivered worldwide.
