Mobility & Automotive

Japanese automakers are moving beyond the era when ashtrays were the only standardized parts. Facing EV competition and European rivals, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and others are now pursuing cross-company standardization of steel, semiconductors, and plastics.

Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation and Taiwan's Hon Hai Precision Industry (Foxconn) have officially agreed to establish a joint venture for EV bus production in Japan. Scheduled for launch in late 2026, the company will manufacture electric buses based on Foxconn's Model T and Model U at Mitsubishi Fuso's Toyama factory, challenging BYD's dominant 60% market share in Japan's EV bus sector.

Sotetsu Bus and NTT Docomo Business launch an autonomous bus trial in Yokohama using local 5G and road-vehicle coordination technology. The project aims to achieve stable operation even on narrow roads and in congested areas, with commercial deployment targeted for 2027.

Discover why methanol fuel ships are emerging as a game-changer in 2026. From Tsuneishi's world-first Kamsarmax bulker to Mitsubishi's pioneering RORO vessels, Japanese shipbuilders lead the decarbonization race. Learn about methanol's advantages, IMO regulations, and the future of green shipping.

Trump tariffs in 2025 caused Japan's top 7 automakers (Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Suzuki, Mazda, Subaru, Mitsubishi) to lose ¥1.5 trillion in just 6 months. Nissan, Mazda, and Mitsubishi fell into the red. Learn how Japan's core industry is adapting to this "new normal."

Sony Honda Mobility announces PS Remote Play integration for its AFEELA EV, making it the world's first vehicle to stream PS5/PS4 games to in-car displays. Set for 2026 delivery, this groundbreaking feature transforms travel time into gaming time. Discover the specs, pricing, and what Japanese people think about this innovation.