The workers responsible for the production of the Model-A pose proudly with it at Mitsubishi's Kobe Shipyard and Engine Works.

A First in Japan

The model-A was the brainchild of Koyata Iwasaki who foresaw the vast potential of motorized vehicles and the role they would play in the economic development of Japan. Being the nephew of Yataro Iwasaki (founder) and the fourth president of Mitsubishi, he was educated at Cambridge University in the U.K. One of his first acts after ascending to the presidency of Mitsubishi was to establish the groundwork for the development of the Model-A. Envisioned as a luxury vehicle for top government officials and top executives, the Model-A had to be highly reliable, of unequivocal comfort and as importantly, be a showcase of Japanese craftsmanship.

Mitsubishi engineers were presented with a challenging assignment. First, the road infrastructure in Japan was considered; rough, mostly unpaved, low fuel supplies, etc. Given the expectations of a completed vehicle and the rudimentary road system as well as other constraints, a European passenger vehicle was utilized as a mechanical reference. Emphasis was placed on economy and durability rather than on high speeds of the American counterparts. After much trial and error, and the development of various manufacturing techniques, a working prototype was tentatively approved by Koyata Iwasaki. Technical refinement followed and the production of the model-A was approved and became a reality in 1917.

The Model-A was a landmark in the history of automobile manufacturing in Japan.Although there were a few prototypes made earlier, the Model-A was the first to be produced in any number. Over 20 units were made between 1917 and 1920 at a time when only European and American production vehicles were available on the Japanese market. The Model-A was heralded for its excellent handling and ride, characteristics that its predecessors were unable to attain.

The Model-A was powered by a 2,800cc gasoline engine which developed 35ps. The handcrafted body was made of white cedar and coated with multiple layers of luxurious matte black lacquer. This process provided a chip resistant and waterproof finish as well as offering visual beauty. The spacious interior was appointed with numerous luxury items of the time and was able to seat 7 in total comfort.