The history of Mitsuoka as a coach builder goes back to 1982 with the launch of the "BUBU shuttle 50" which was equipped with the 50cc engine. This model was designed with disabled persons in mind. This model was a starting point of Mitsuoka as a coach builder.
After that Mitsuoka manufactured replica models. In 1987, "BUBU classic SSK" was launched.
In 1989 "BUBU 356 Speedster", in 1990 "Le-Seyde", in 1991 "Dore" was launched. "Le-Seyde" was sold out in only 4 days with 500 units of limited production.
In 1993 the "Viewt" was launched. This was reminiscent of famous Jaguar Mark II. Mitsuoka achieved a remarkable sales record of 1.000 units of the "Viewt". Mitsuoka then established a dealer's network for easy access anywhere in Japan.
In 1994 the Mitsuoka "Zero1" was launched. Mitsuoka got type approval for this model and was recognized as the 10th Japanese passenger car manufacturer. It was sensationally announced through the mass media.
The Mitsuoka "Zero1" model was the starting point of spirit of challenge. At the same time it still gave Mitsuoka a tremendous drive to develop various models. At this stage, Mitsuoka was still a chassis manufacturer.
The "Galue", "Zero 1 Type F" and "Rei" were launched in 1996, and "Ryoga" in 1998. These models made up the base of Mitsuoka's current lineup.
Mitsuoka proceeded to challenge the competitives in the 50cc engine car series with the "Micro Car" and "Kit Car".
Further to this, Mitsuoka launched a Battery operated Micro Car for a single passenger drive.
2000 saw Mitsuoka becoming the exclusive sole distributor of the famous London Taxi "TX-I" from England. The "Le-Seyde" was also re-launched in 10 years. In 2001 Mitsuoka joined the 35th Tokyo Motor Show for the first time.
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