Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry announced on Friday that it will offer subsidies amounting to 117.8 billion yen ($830 million) to Toyota Motor Corp. This financial support aims to encourage the company's investment in state-of-the-art electric vehicle (EV) batteries within Japan. This move is part of the government's broader strategy to ensure economic security by promoting domestic production of crucial technologies, including batteries and semiconductors. In total, the ministry plans to provide 127.6 billion yen ($900 million) in funding for seven projects that focus on the development and investment in battery parts and materials. These projects involve various battery manufacturers alongside Toyota. This initiative follows a previous decision made in April, where the government granted a subsidy of approximately 160 billion yen ($1.1billion) for an EV battery manufacturing project led by Honda Motor Co. and GS Yuasa Corp. During a press conference, ...

Honda Motor Co. is preparing to introduce its first electric motorcycle for individual customers, marking a significant milestone for the company. The EM1 e: model, designed with a focus on commuting and shopping, is scheduled to go on sale on August 24th, as announced by Honda on May 19th. This will be the first time Honda makes an electric motorcycle available in the domestic market. The EM1 e: will fall under the same category as 50cc motorcycles under the Road Traffic Law. When fully charged, the vehicle can travel up to 53 kilometers, providing a practical range for short-distance trips. Charging the motorcycle is a convenient process, as power can be supplied through a regular electrical socket at home. The EM1 e: features a removable battery that can be charged using a dedicated charger. It takes approximately six hours to fully charge one exhausted battery.   Honda expects to sell approximately 3,000 units of the EM1 e: annually. The motorcycle will be priced at 299,2...

Toyota Motor Corp. is planning to launch electric vehicles (EVs) equipped with all-solid-state batteries in 2027-28. These next-generation batteries are expected to enhance EV range and shorten charging times, positioning Toyota to compete more effectively in the EV market currently dominated by Tesla Inc. Unlike the lithium-ion batteries commonly used in EVs and electrical devices, all-solid-state batteries utilize solid electrolytes instead of liquid ones. This new technology offers numerous benefits, including high-power output, extended range, rapid charging times, and potential for miniaturization. However, there are challenges that need to be addressed, such as the limited lifespan of these batteries and the requirement to mass produce them at a low cost.   Toyota's BEV Factory, an electric vehicle-focused unit, will be responsible for integrating these batteries into its upcoming vehicle models. The company's goal is to develop EVs that can be fully charged in unde...

Honda Motor Co. has announced its re-entry into the Formula One World Championship in 2026 through a partnership with Aston Martin. The move is aimed at strengthening Honda's development of greener vehicles in response to tightening environmental regulations in motor racing. As part of the partnership, Honda will supply power units consisting of engines and motors to Aston Martin. The company hopes that the knowledge and expertise gained through its involvement in Formula One will contribute to the development of all-electric vehicles and other innovative mobility products, including flying cars.   Honda's decision to return to Formula One is driven by the sport's increasing focus on environmental sustainability. New regulations effective from 2026 require power units to generate equal output from engines and motors, significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Participants are also mandated to use carbon-neutral fuel.   Honda's President, Toshihiro Mibe, ...

Four of Japan's leading motorcycle manufacturers announced on Wednesday their collaboration in the development of hydrogen-powered engines. Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha will establish a dedicated research and development organization next month, aligning with Japan's commitment to promoting hydrogen as a clean energy source. The aim is to introduce these engines in two-wheelers and other forms of transportation in the future, responding to increasingly stringent regulations on gasoline-powered vehicles and the global trend towards electric vehicles. Unlike all-electric models, Japanese motorcycle makers are keen on exploring hydrogen as an alternative option that can be integrated into their existing engines. The potential of hydrogen as a next-generation clean energy source is enormous, according to Yamaha President Yoshihiro Hidaka, who expressed his optimism during a press conference. In addition to the four motorcycle manufacturers, Toyota Motor Corp., which has be...

With many influential figures having made a significant impact on the country's economy and society. In this article, we will explore some of the most famous entrepreneurs in Japanese history and what made them so important to the success of Japan. 1.     Akio Morita - co-founder of Sony Corporation Akio Morita is widely considered one of the greatest entrepreneurs in Japanese history, having co-founded Sony Corporation in 1946. Under Morita's leadership, Sony grew into one of the world's largest electronics companies, producing iconic products such as the Walkman, Trinitron television, and PlayStation gaming console. Morita's vision and business acumen helped establish Japan as a major player in the global electronics market. 2.     Soichiro Honda - founder of Honda Motor Company Soichiro Honda was the founder of Honda Motor Company, one of the world's largest manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles. Honda's innovative designs and engineering ...