Mobility & Automotive

Honda invests in U.S. startup Mythic to co-develop a neuromorphic SoC inspired by the human brain. By combining analog compute-in-memory technology with Honda's AI expertise, this brain-like chip achieves both massive power savings and high AI performance—potentially transforming autonomous driving for next-generation software-defined vehicles.

JR East launches Japan's first cargo-only Shinkansen in March 2026. A former Yamagata Shinkansen E3 Series train has been stripped of all 394 seats and rebuilt to carry up to 17.4 tons of freight at 186 mph. Learn how the "Hako-Byun" service tackles Japan's driver shortage, cuts CO2 emissions, and creates a high-speed logistics link between rural producers and Tokyo.

Japanese startup AirX has signed a binding order with Brazil's Eve Air Mobility for two eVTOL "flying car" aircraft, with options to expand to 50 units in a deal potentially worth $150 million. Targeting 2029 for sightseeing and last-mile transport services in Tokyo and Osaka, this agreement marks a major milestone in Japan's push toward urban air mobility — following successful demo flights at Expo 2025 Osaka.

Why has Honda's Super Cub become the most produced motor vehicle in history with over 110 million units? From its origins as "a bike a soba delivery boy can ride one-handed" to its legendary durability and global cultural impact — discover the philosophy that made this humble motorcycle an icon in 160+ countries.

French automotive giant Valeo and Japanese test & measurement leader Anritsu have jointly developed a digital twin verification environment for next-generation SDVs. The cloud-based solution eliminates the need for physical vehicles or test tracks, enabling comprehensive virtual testing of connected car systems. Joint demo to debut at MWC 2026.

Japan's Vivel Trike, a compact electric three-wheeler starting at $3,900, has surpassed 300 cumulative sales since 2023. Requiring only a standard driver's license with no vehicle inspection needed, this roofed EV tuk-tuk is gaining traction among elderly residents, families, and businesses. We explore how it addresses Japan's growing "mobility refugee" crisis.

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 and Taiwan's Hon Hai Precision Industry (Foxconn) have signed a final agreement to set up an EV bus joint venture in Japan. Due to launch in late 2026, it will build large route buses based on Foxconn's Model T at Fuso's Toyama plant, taking orders from 2027 and challenging BYD's roughly 60% share of Japan's EV bus market.

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.