If you’ve been waiting for Mitsubishi to join the electric vehicle revolution in Australia, your patience might finally pay off. The Japanese automaker has announced exciting partnerships that will bring new electric models to Australian roads, with the first arriving in late 2026.
The Big Picture: Why This Matters for Australian Drivers
Mitsubishi’s current lineup in Australia has become surprisingly thin. Due to new safety regulations that took effect earlier this year, popular models like the ASX, Eclipse Cross, and Pajero Sport were discontinued, leaving buyers with just the Outlander and Triton as their main options.
This partnership represents Mitsubishi’s strategy to rebuild its Australian presence while embracing electrification. Rather than developing entirely new electric vehicles from scratch, the company is leveraging existing relationships within the Nissan-Renault-Mitsubishi Alliance and forming new partnerships with technology companies.
Two Electric Vehicles on the Horizon
The Foxtron Partnership: Australia Gets First Priority
The most concrete development involves a collaboration with Foxtron, the electric vehicle subsidiary of electronics giant Foxconn (yes, the company that makes iPhones). This partnership will deliver a new electric vehicle to Australia and New Zealand in the second half of 2026.
What makes this particularly noteworthy is that Australia will be the first market globally to receive this vehicle. This demonstrates Mitsubishi’s commitment to the Australian market, where the brand has maintained a presence for 45 years.
The vehicle is expected to be based on the Foxtron Model B, a compact crossover that measures 4.3 meters in length. Think of it as similar in size to popular small SUVs but with a fully electric powertrain. The styling comes from renowned Italian design house Pininfarina, suggesting this won’t be a bland, uninspiring electric box.
The Nissan Connection: Still Under Consideration
Mitsubishi is also exploring a second electric vehicle based on the next-generation Nissan Leaf. However, this model isn’t confirmed for Australia yet. While it’s planned for the North American market in late 2026, Mitsubishi Australia is still evaluating whether it makes sense for local conditions.
What Australian Buyers Can Expect
Practical Electric Driving
The Foxtron-based vehicle promises over 500 kilometers of driving range from its 60kWh battery pack. While these figures come from the more optimistic NEDC testing cycle rather than the stricter WLTP standard, it suggests decent real-world range for daily driving and weekend trips.
The compact crossover format should appeal to Australian buyers who have increasingly favored SUV-style vehicles over traditional sedans and hatchbacks. It’s designed to compete in the growing small electric SUV segment alongside models like the BYD Atto 3 and MG ZS EV.
Mitsubishi’s Signature Support
One advantage Mitsubishi brings to the table is its customer support approach. The company has built a reputation in Australia for its comprehensive warranty coverage and capped-price servicing plans. These electric vehicles are expected to come with similar support packages, potentially including the brand’s 10-year warranty program.
Key Vehicle Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Timeline | Second half of 2026 |
| Vehicle Type | Compact electric crossover |
| Length | 4.3 meters |
| Wheelbase | 2.8 meters |
| Battery Capacity | 60kWh |
| Claimed Range | 500+ km (NEDC cycle) |
| Manufacturing Location | Taiwan (Yulon Motor) |
| Design House | Pininfarina |
The Bigger Strategy: Alliance Benefits
This move highlights how modern automakers are increasingly collaborative rather than going it alone. Mitsubishi’s approach leverages multiple partnerships:
- Nissan Alliance: Sharing platforms and technology development costs
- Foxtron Partnership: Access to manufacturing capabilities and battery technology
- Renault Connection: Already bringing rebadged models like the new ASX to Australia
For consumers, this collaborative approach often means better value. Instead of each brand developing expensive electric vehicle technology independently, they can share costs and bring more affordable options to market.
What This Means for Your Next Car Purchase
If you’re currently driving a Mitsubishi and wondering about your next vehicle, these developments suggest the brand isn’t abandoning Australia despite its reduced current lineup. The electric vehicle commitment, combined with incoming models like the refreshed ASX, indicates Mitsubishi is rebuilding rather than retreating.
For buyers considering their first electric vehicle, having another mainstream brand enter the market should increase competition and potentially improve pricing and features across the segment.
The 2026 timeline also gives current Mitsubishi owners time to plan their next purchase, especially those with vehicles approaching the end of their useful life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When exactly will the new Mitsubishi EV arrive in Australia?
A: The Foxtron-based electric vehicle is scheduled to launch in Australia during the second half of 2026, making Australia the first global market to receive it.
Q: Will this EV be affordable compared to current electric cars?
A: Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but Mitsubishi typically positions its vehicles competitively in the market, and the collaborative approach should help control development costs.
Q: What happens to Mitsubishi’s current petrol and diesel models?
A: Mitsubishi will continue offering petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid options alongside the new electric vehicles as part of their multi-powertrain strategy through 2030.
