Mitsubishi Motors was established in 1970 as a spin-off from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, though its automotive roots trace to 1917. The brand built its global reputation through rally motorsport, particularly the Pajero's dominance in the Dakar Rally. Mitsubishi Motors Corporation became a consolidated Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance member in 2016, with Nissan acquiring a controlling stake. It has a long manufacturing history in the Philippines and strong commercial ties in Thailand, where the Triton pickup is assembled locally.