At a presentation at the Tonsley Park site yesterday, the last consignment of production vehicles received comprehensive quality evaluations and final certification.

Robert McEniry, Mitsubishi’s President and Chief Executive Officer, acknowledged the company’s heritage of manufacturing excellence and paid tribute to loyal employees.

"There is no doubt that today is a very solemn day, but it is also a celebration of the long and proud history of an exceptional manufacturing facility, and an exceptional group of people."

"Since my arrival at Mitsubishi, I have been deeply impressed and heartened by the tenacity, resilience and sheer determination of all our employees. My thanks, and the thanks of the entire Mitsubishi management team go to this wonderful group for their continued commitment." Mr McEniry said.

In his speech, Mr McEniry also acknowledged the support of the 200-strong Mitsubishi dealer network and the response from the business community and government bodies.

"The Mitsubishi dealer network is a strong and committed body and they are steadfast in their efforts to consolidate and grow the Mitsubishi brand in the Australian market, and I thank them for their support, particularly during the last few weeks."

"In addition, we have received unprecedented support from both the Australian and South Australian business communities, and local, state and federal bodies to assist our employees through this transition process. An amazing number of companies have come forward with offers of over 700 full-time, long term positions for our highly trained personnel." Mr McEniry said.

The Tonsley Park Plant was originally opened by Prime Minister Sir Robert Menzies on 2nd October, 1964 by Chrysler Australia. Following a change of ownership, the first Mitsubishi rolled off the production line in 1980 and since then the Tonsley Park plant has manufactured more than 1.1 million vehicles, including the Sigma, Colt, Magna and 380.