In the UK, Japanese 'grey imports' are vehicles that are not manufactured by main dealers for the UK market. They are manufactured for the Japanese market. Their popularity is probably due to their good looks and reputation for reliability. Some models are often of higher specification than similar models produced for the UK. Other models are only available in Japan and only reach the UK as a 'grey' import. They are imported into the UK by private individuals, smaller importers and dealers.
In the late 1990's, the Mitsubishi Pajero (sold here as the Shogun) was a popular 'grey import' coming into the UK. At that time, a handful of enthusiasts bought imported Mitsubishi Pajeros, sometimes in preference to the Shogun. Because the model was in some ways different to the Shogun, very few insurers would insure them. Some garages were reluctant to service them. And only a few others knew anything about them!
A handful of Pajero enthusiasts joined together to form what is believed to be the first 'grey import' owners club. Not surprisingly, it was called 'The Mitsubishi Pajero Owners Club'. They shared all the information they gathered, from who would insure the Pajero to where to find spare parts. They pooled their knowledge and distributed their first magazine full of advice.
Pajero import sales were rocketed and the clubs’ membership soared. They established their original website and word spread rapidly. Their enthusiasm and persistence paid off. More people wanted to get involved, including the Colt Motor Company! In 2001, they met with the Pajero club officials. Colt began to recognize Pajeros in their main dealer outlets. The club accepted Shoguns and changed their name to the Mitsubishi Pajero & Shogun Owners Club; MPSOC.
With increasing use of the internet, the club continued to grow and had thousands of enthusiastic members throughout Europe, whose wide interests ranged from caravanning to off-roading. The Pajero Owners Club was the pioneer of the many 'grey import' owners clubs which now exist and can be readily found on the internet. |
