Mitsubishi Australia confirms partnership with iPhone-maker Foxconn's EV division to develop new electric car for local market by 2026

Mitsubishi has signed a memorandum of understanding with Taiwanese manufacturer Foxtron to co-develop and sell an EV exclusively for the Australian and New Zealand markets.

The announcement confirms an earlier report by CarsGuide that Foxtron, the EV division of major iPhone manufacturer Foxconn and Taiwanese carmaker Yulon, would offer its catalogue of electric cars to Mitsubishi for the local market.

It’s unclear at this stage which Foxtron model will be developed by Mitsubishi for the Australian market, though the brand has confirmed it will launch in the second half of 2026.

The most likely candidate is the Pininfarina-designed Foxtron Model B, a Mitsubishi ASX-sized SUV, which debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in 2024 as a prospective competitor to the Volkswagen ID.3, Jeep Avenger and Kia Niro.

Driving range is estimated to top 500km under the NEDC cycle thanks to a 60kWh traction battery, while single-motor and dual-motor drivetrains are anticipated.

Foxconn has said it aims to crowdsource its EVs to car brands rather than sell them directly. In addition to the Foxtron Model B, Foxconn’s line-up includes a larger Tesla Model Y-sized SUV, a pick up, a bus, a sedan and a van.

Mitsubishi doesn’t currently offer an electric model in Australia, despite the brand being the first to offer a highway-capable mass-market EV for the global market, known as the iMiEV, in 2009.

More recently, the brand has chosen to focus its attention on its plug-in hybrid capabilities with the Outlander PHEV and Eclipse Cross PHEV. The former is one of Australia’s best-selling PHEV models next to the BYD Sealion 6.

The decision to partner with Foxconn is likely to shore up its electrification credentials as the New Vehicle Efficiency Standards (NVES) comes into effect.

The scheme imposes penalties on car brands that don’t comply with emissions standards, which are progressively tightened each year. Car brands can earn credits for meeting or exceeding their emissions targets, which they can then sell to other brands.

Mitsubishi’s Australia CEO, Shaun Westcott, said the brand was excited to be partnering with Foxtron on its future EV model.

“Mitsubishi Motors Australia welcomes confirmation of this exciting partnership between Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and Foxtron and we are looking forward to working closely to deliver a great product for Australian customers,” said Westcott.

“This pure EV model is the latest step in our Momentum 2030 plan and offers another string to our multi-powertrain bow that will see us through to the next decade.”