Mitsubishi can return to making interesting and quirky cars, now that DaimlerChrysler has released its grip on the firm, says the UK importer’s boss, Jim Tyrrell (right). ‘We can revert to being a traditional Japanese car company,’ he said. ‘DC’s style and philosophy were not right for a Japanese company.’ Tyrrell also criticised DC’s priorities for its Japanese partner. ‘Management was too keen on investing in retail and distribution, and making dealers over-invest for the returns they could expect.’ However, Tyrrell does not expect the new Colt, developed with DC, to have a curtailed lifespan. ‘It will have the usual seven-year life. Chrysler and Smart still need us, as much as we need them.’
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