Mitsubishi seeks easing of Thailand’s eco-car rules

Mitsubishi Motors (Thailand) Co. Ltd. has proposed that the Thai government relax some requirements of the eco-car project to boost sluggish sales. According to Takeo Sakurai, Mitsubishi Motors’ corporate general manager, relaxing some rules for small, fuel-efficient vehicles will push forward investment even in the face of the global economic slump. “As we all know, certain manufacturers have announced a review of their eco-car projects as they think committing a lot of money now may not be a good idea,” Sakurai said. Carmakers had earlier requested the Industry Ministry to change the minimum annual output and local content required for green cars that will qualify manufacturers to receive tax and investment incentives. (February 6, 2009)