Mitsubishi Motors announces plans to manufacture hybrid EV in PH 

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) today, April 7, 2026, announced its intention to participate in the Philippine government’s electric vehicle promotion program and manufacture a dedicated hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) manufacturing plant at its existing plant in Santa Rosa, Laguna, not just for the domestic market, but possibly  for export to other countries.

MMC President and CEO Takao Kato reaffirmed the planned investment during a meeting with Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Secretary Frederick Go at the Malacañan Palace today, April 7.

MMC through its local subsidiary Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) plans to join the EV industry through  the Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy (EVIS). MMPC also plans to begin production of a new hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) model at its plant in Santa Rosa City, Laguna, around the middle of calendar year 2028.

In line with the start of production of the new HEV model, MMPC is planning additional investments, including enhancements to its facilities to support electrification. These initiatives will contribute to expanding the local supply chain and generating employment opportunities in the region.

During the meeting, Takao Kato, chief executive officer of Mitsubishi Motors, said, “The Philippines has long been one of our most important markets, where we have engaged in production and sales for many years. In cooperation with the Philippine government, we are honored to contribute to the advancement of vehicle electrification and industrial development through the EVIS program, as well as to support the further growth of the Philippine economy.”

At present, MMPC assembles Mirage, Mirage G4, L300 vans at its 21.4 hectare plant in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, which has a production capacity of 50,000 units a year. It also distributes XForce, Xpander, Xpander Cross, Destinator, Montero Sport, Triton, and Versa Van.

In a statement, Secretary Go said this strategic move accelerates the localization of advanced hybrid vehicle production, supporting the country’s goals for cleaner transport and higher-value manufacturing. MMC is also looking at the possibility of exporting products from its Laguna plant, he added.

By producing HEVs locally, he said, the Philippines can reduce oil import dependence and cut urban emissions —while aligning with the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and positioning the country for a seamless transition toward full electrification as battery costs decline and renewable energy capacity grows.

This kind of investment becomes more valuable during times of uncertainty, as it will create more job opportunities for Filipinos, while propelling the nation into a more sustainable and technological future, said the Finance chief.

The Board of Investments (BOI) is currently finalizing the Electric Vehicle Incentives Strategy (EVIS) program for endorsement to the Fiscal Incentives Review Board (FIRB) and approval of the President. The initiative aims to accelerate investments and reinforce the Philippines’ position as an emerging hub for electric vehicle manufacturing and investment in the region.

“This is a landmark investment that will redefine the future of our automotive industry. And the even more exciting possibility is that we could be an exporter of hybrid cars,” said Secretary Go in a statement.