The Captivating History of Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi, a name synonymous with reliability and innovation, has a rich history spanning more than a century. From its humble beginnings as a shipping company in Japan to its current status as a global leader in a wide range of industries, Mitsubishi has always been at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and groundbreaking advancements. Today, the company is recognized for its exceptional automation products, culminating years of research and development. In this article, we delve into the history of Mitsubishi, exploring its journey through the years and shedding light on the brand’s technological prowess and contribution to the automation industry. So, sit back, strap on your seatbelts, and get ready to embark on a thrilling ride through the world of Mitsubishi’s history – a world of technological marvels and endless possibilities.

Humble Beginnings

Picture this: it’s the late 19th century in Japan, and the country is on the brink of a rapid transformation. Amidst the bustling ports and bustling traders, a young entrepreneur named Yataro Iwasaki sets his sights on remodeling Japan’s maritime industry. In 1870, he established Tsukumo Shokai, a shipping company that would later evolve into the powerhouse we know today as Mitsubishi. With a small fleet of steamships, Iwasaki’s vision was to connect Japan with the rest of the world, opening up new avenues of trade and opportunity. Little did he know that his venture would lay the foundation for a colossal conglomerate and set the stage for Mitsubishi’s extraordinary journey into the realm of automation.

In 1873, Mitsukawa Shokai officially changed its name to Mitsubishi Shokai. The word “Mitsubishi” consists of two parts: “Mitsu” and “bishi.” “Mitsu” translates to “three” in Japanese, while “bishi” means “water caltrop” or “diamond-shaped rhombus.” The emblem of Mitsubishi features three diamond-shaped rhombuses arranged in a triangular pattern. This emblem, known as the “Mitsubishi triple diamond,” holds deep significance as it carries multiple meanings that reflect Mitsubishi’s values and aspirations.

Firstly, the three diamonds symbolize the three principles of the company: integrity, reliability, and success. Mitsubishi strives to uphold these principles in every aspect of its business, building trust and establishing a solid reputation.

Secondly, the triangular arrangement of the diamonds represents a dynamic and forward-thinking outlook. It signifies progress, innovation, and the continuous pursuit of improvement. Mitsubishi’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements and driving positive change is reflected in this emblematic representation.

Moreover, the diamond shape itself holds symbolic significance. Diamonds are associated with strength, durability, and brilliance. Mitsubishi’s products are designed to embody these qualities, offering exceptional performance, longevity, and cutting-edge features.

More Than a Shipping Company

Yataro Iwasaki’s efforts in transforming the company into something much more were successful upon purchasing the Yoshioka Mine in Okayama to drive the company’s direction towards diversification. Modernized equipment and technology were then brought to the mine to amp production, just for that very same mine to reveal what would now be Japan’s most significant copper vein. Due to this success, Mitsubishi further ventured into different services, capitalizing on industries such as warehousing, shipping documentation, and financial services.

In 1881, Yataro bought another mine after having been advised by his brother, Yanosuke Iwasaki, to do so. This time it was an extremely unprofitable coal mine in Nagasaki with the goal to strike big once again with his fleet of modern machinery. As expected, that business became very profitable after the acquisition from Shojiro Goto. Keeping up with the winning streak, Mitsubishi purchased the Nagasaki Shipyard from the Japanese government, launching them into becoming one of the world’s leading shipbuilding companies.

The Rise of a New Leader

After Yataro Iwasaki’s passing, his brother, Yanosuke Iwasaki, became Mitsubishis second president in 1885. Having spent time in America to study the culture and customs, his international learnings would further help develop Mitsubishi into what it is today. Yanosuke showcased exceptional business acumen and innate leadership talent. His strategic thinking and foresight became evident as he helped steer Mitsubishi through a period of rapid growth and expansion. With a keen understanding of the shipping industry, Yanosuke played a vital role in establishing Mitsubishi as a prominent player in Japan’s maritime trade.

Under Yanosuke’s guidance, Mitsubishi’s shipping operations flourished. He recognized the importance of embracing technological advancements and initiated the transition from sail-powered vessels to steamships. This move transformed Mitsubishi’s shipping capabilities, enabling them to navigate international waters more efficiently and solidify their position in the industry.

Yanosuke’s vision extended beyond shipping. He sought opportunities for diversification, leading Mitsubishi to expand into various sectors. Recognizing the significance of coal mining, Yanosuke oversaw Mitsubishi’s entry into the industry, harnessing Japan’s rich coal reserves. This expansion into new ventures marked the beginning of Mitsubishi’s transformation into a multi-faceted conglomerate.

Moreover, Yanosuke Iwasaki’s leadership was characterized by his commitment to corporate responsibility and community welfare. He prioritized initiatives that improved working conditions for employees and demonstrated a deep sense of social responsibility. Yanosuke’s emphasis on employee well-being and community development laid the groundwork for Mitsubishi’s longstanding tradition of responsible business practices.

Yanosuke Iwasaki’s contributions to Mitsubishi cannot be overstated. His strategic decisions, forward-thinking approach, and commitment to growth and social responsibility were instrumental in shaping the company’s trajectory. As a key figure in Mitsubishi’s early history, Yanosuke’s legacy lives on as a testament to the enduring impact of the Iwasaki family and their significant contributions to Mitsubishi’s success.

Accelerating Through Time

Mitsubishi has carved a distinguished path within automotive excellence, blending innovation, performance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. From its early ventures into automobile manufacturing to the legendary Lancer Evolution and exhilarating rally racing triumphs, Mitsubishi’s involvement in the automotive industry is a tale of engineering prowess and driving passion.

Mitsubishi’s foray into the automotive world traces back to the early 20th century. In 1917, the company introduced its first mass-produced vehicle, the Mitsubishi Model-A, which marked the birth of the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. This groundbreaking automobile, Japan’s first series production car, showcased Mitsubishi’s commitment to innovation and paved the way for future automotive ventures.

Introducing the Lancer Evolution series was a defining moment in Mitsubishi’s automotive history. Debuting in 1992, the Lancer Evolution quickly gained a cult following, leaving an indelible mark on the performance car landscape. Born out of Mitsubishi’s motorsport heritage, the Lancer Evolution combined turbocharged power, agile handling, and cutting-edge technology to deliver an unmatched driving experience. Its dominance in rally racing and exhilarating performance on the road elevated the Lancer Evolution to legendary status among automotive enthusiasts.

Mitsubishi’s connection with rally racing is a thrilling chapter in its automotive journey. The company’s involvement in competitive motorsports ignited a fierce passion for performance and propelled Mitsubishi to remarkable victories. In the world of rally racing, Mitsubishi’s name became synonymous with success, particularly through its participation in the World Rally Championship (WRC).

Mitsubishi’s prowess in rally racing found its ultimate expression through various iterations of the Lancer Evolution. The Evolution series, with its sequential numeral nomenclature, showcased continuous improvement and evolution. Each new model incorporated technological advancements, aerodynamic refinements, and enhanced performance to conquer both the rally stage and the hearts of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Mitsubishi’s dominance in WRC with drivers like Tommi Mäkinen, who secured four consecutive driver’s championships from 1996 to 1999, further solidified the company’s reputation as a rally racing powerhouse.

While the Lancer Evolution holds a special place in Mitsubishi’s automotive history, the company’s commitment to diversification and innovation extends beyond this iconic model. Mitsubishi has introduced a diverse range of vehicles that cater to various segments, including sedans, SUVs, and electric vehicles. From the versatile Outlander to the efficient Mirage and the cutting-edge electric i-MiEV, Mitsubishi continues to push boundaries and adapt to evolving market demands.

The Transition From Automotive Legacy to Diverse Divisions

As we traverse the storied history of Mitsubishi’s automotive achievements, it becomes evident that the company’s impact extends far beyond the realm of cars. In their pursuit of excellence and innovation, Mitsubishi has ventured into diverse divisions, weaving a tapestry of technological advancements that touch various aspects of our daily lives. Beyond the roaring engines and sleek designs, Mitsubishi’s expertise spans a spectrum of industries, each with its innovative division. Delving deeper, we discover Mitsubishi Electric, an HVAC solutions powerhouse that pioneers energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technologies. Their dedication to sustainable indoor environments has led to developing state-of-the-art HVAC systems, providing optimal comfort while minimizing ecological impact.

From cooling our spaces, we shift our focus to Mitsubishi’s prowess in visual excellence. The company’s televisions and displays division captivates audiences with stunning imagery and immersive viewing experiences. With a focus on cutting-edge display technologies, Mitsubishi’s smart TVs and professional displays deliver crystal-clear images, vibrant colors, and unparalleled picture clarity, transforming how we consume visual content.

Mitsubishi’s commitment to illumination shines brightest through its lighting solutions division. By combining energy efficiency, durability, and superior illumination, Mitsubishi Lighting Solutions brings brightness and ambiance to various environments. Whether it’s residential, commercial, or urban landscapes, Mitsubishi’s lighting systems enhance spaces while minimizing energy consumption and environmental impact.

Venturing into the realm of healthcare, Mitsubishi’s lesser-known medical devices division emerges as a beacon of precision and innovation. Through advanced imaging technologies, such as CT scanners, MRI machines, and ultrasound systems, Mitsubishi contributes to the accuracy of medical diagnoses, supporting healthcare professionals in providing better patient care and improving overall healthcare outcomes.

Beyond the confines of urban landscapes and medical facilities, Mitsubishi extends its commitment to sustainability and technological advancement to the agricultural domain. Through its agriculture solutions division, Mitsubishi develops cutting-edge technologies that optimize farming practices, enhance crop yields, and minimize environmental impact. By empowering farmers with precision farming techniques and intelligent agricultural machinery, Mitsubishi contributes to sustainable food production and preserves natural resources.

Mitsubishi’s Industrial Automation Empire

As we journey deeper into the realm of Mitsubishi’s diverse divisions, we now shift our focus to the exhilarating world of industrial automation. Mitsubishi has firmly established itself as a trailblazer in this field, consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation to transform manufacturing processes worldwide. Mitsubishi’s industrial automation division stands as a beacon of progress with a wide range of acclaimed products, remarkable advancements, and applications across industries.

Mitsubishi’s foray into industrial automation can be traced back to significant milestones and breakthrough innovations. The company’s commitment to driving efficiency and productivity dates back to the introduction of the MELSEC series in 1977. This groundbreaking line of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) laid the foundation for Mitsubishi’s industrial control systems, setting the stage for future advancements.

Mitsubishi has consistently pushed the boundaries of PLC technology, introducing groundbreaking products that have transformed manufacturing processes. The MELSEC-Q series, presented in 1993, elevated performance standards by offering high-speed operation, reliability, and scalability. This versatile PLC platform enabled seamless integration across various applications, from discrete manufacturing to process control, empowering industries to optimize their operations and achieve unprecedented productivity levels.

Alongside PLCs, Mitsubishi’s human-machine interface (HMI) solutions have played a pivotal role in streamlining operator interactions and enhancing overall control. The GOT (Graphical Operator Terminal) series, renowned for its intuitive interfaces and advanced functionality, has become a cornerstone in industrial automation. These HMIs provide operators with a clear view of production processes, real-time data visualization, and efficient control, facilitating seamless man-machine collaboration.

Mitsubishi’s automation prowess extends beyond PLCs and HMIs to encompass robotics, empowering industries to unlock new levels of efficiency and precision. The MELFA series of industrial robots has been a game-changer, finding applications in sectors such as automotive, electronics, and packaging. These agile and versatile robots, equipped with advanced sensing and control capabilities, optimize assembly lines, automate complex tasks, and enhance productivity while ensuring the highest quality standards.

The Next Frontier: Newer Product Lines

Mitsubishi continues to innovate and expand its industrial automation portfolio with newer product lines designed to meet the evolving needs of the industry. The iQ-R series PLC, introduced in 2015, represents a leap forward in performance and functionality, combining high-speed processing, enhanced security features, and seamless connectivity to drive more intelligent and efficient automation solutions.

Furthermore, Mitsubishi’s iQ-F series PLC offers a compact and cost-effective automation solution, ideal for applications requiring a smaller footprint without compromising on performance. These advancements in PLC technology have propelled industries across sectors, from automotive manufacturing and electronics assembly to food and beverage processing and pharmaceutical production.

In addition to PLCs and HMIs, Mitsubishi has developed advanced servo systems, motion controllers, and network solutions that integrate seamlessly into industrial automation infrastructures. These offerings enable precise and synchronized control of motion, enhance machine performance, and facilitate seamless communication between various components of a manufacturing system.

Mitsubishi’s industrial automation division stands as a powerhouse of innovation, consistently delivering cutting-edge solutions that propel industries toward greater productivity, efficiency, and precision. From groundbreaking PLCs like the MELSEC-Q series to intuitive HMIs in the GOT series, Mitsubishi has been at the forefront of revolutionizing control and visualization. With the MELFA series of industrial robots, the company has unleashed new possibilities in automation, streamlining assembly lines and enhancing manufacturing capabilities. As Mitsubishi continues to pioneer advancements, the iQ-R and iQ-F series PLCs, along with a range of servo systems, motion controllers, and network solutions, solidify the company’s commitment to shaping the future of industrial automation. By deploying Mitsubishi’s technologies, industries across the globe can embrace enhanced productivity, seamless connectivity, and intelligent automation to thrive in an ever-evolving manufacturing landscape.

Closing Thoughts

As we bring our journey through Mitsubishi’s rich and storied history to a close, we emerge with a profound appreciation for the indelible impact this remarkable company has had on multiple industries. From their humble beginnings as a shipping company to their diversified presence in automotive, industrial automation, and beyond, Mitsubishi has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, leaving an indelible mark on the world of technology and progress. While their iconic automotive legacy captures the hearts of enthusiasts, it is Mitsubishi’s unwavering commitment to industrial automation that truly shines. Through groundbreaking advancements in PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and more, Mitsubishi has spearheaded transformative change, empowering industries worldwide to achieve greater productivity, efficiency, and sustainability. By embracing automation, Mitsubishi has harnessed the power of technology to shape a brighter future for manufacturing, revolutionizing processes and driving global progress. Today, as we look at Mitsubishi, we see not just a company with a remarkable history but a beacon of innovation whose dedication to excellence inspires us all to strive for greatness in our own endeavors.

This entry was posted on July 10th, 2023 and is filed under Uncategorized. Both comments and pings are currently closed.