Rebuilding The Nation

Mitsubishi's first major export was 600 R32 buses to Chile in 1957.

At the end of the Second World War, Japan lay in ruins, its economic infrastructure virtually destroyed by bombing. For the country to have any future, there had to be a massive reconstruction effort, including rebuilding and extension of the road network.

By order of the Allied powers, Japan's large industrial groupings were dismantled. In 1950, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries was split into three regional companies, with each maintaining an involvement in motor vehicle development. This explains the diverse and somewhat overlapping nature of Mitsubishi's progress, but necessity as the mother of invention was the key to all developments in the late 40s and 50s.

In 1946 came the "Mizushima," a small, reliable and economical three-wheel cargo carrier that perfectly fitted the bill for people's short-distance transport needs immediately after the war. It was soon provided with an enclosed cabin for two passengers. The same year saw the introduction of Mitsubishi's first scooter, the "Silver Pigeon." Again, the emphasis was on practicality and economy, but in the light of history the "Silver Pigeon" may be said to have helped initiate Japan's personal transport boom.