Category: JCN Newswire

Toyota City, Japan, Feb 27, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) has announced that it has submitted a progress report on measures to prevent recurrence of model certification application issues to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) today in light of the correction order the ministry issued on July 31. This report, summarizing actions taken to date, is the second of a series of quarterly reports.Specific progress of recurrence prevention measuresWith the three pillars of "Strengthening Foundations," "Monozukuri," and "Human Development," Toyota has been promoting a review of the structure and system to ensure that each employee is aware of legal compliance and is able to do the job correctly. The company is also promoting onsite management, in which management goes to the genba and promptly takes appropriate action in response to abnormalities.The following concrete actions are being promoted across the Group with set priorities and activity plans.Strengthening FoundationsManagement visiting the operational genba to identify problems and make immediate decisions on how to deal with them.Management grasping staff hardships and efforts at the genba and discussing what it should do at weekly executive-level meetings related to certification.Enhancing internal controls by reinforcing abnormality management in the vehicle development process, strengthening certification operations audits by in-house inspectors, and introducing secondary audits of the abnormality management and auditing operations themselves.Checking the actual genba conditions of certification-related departments, allocating human resources and testing equipment to the Regulations and Certification Department and the Collision Testing Fields, etc.MonozukuriImplemented a new operational approach to ongoing development projects, incorporating measures to prevent recurrence in October 2024.Introduced a system to check the impact on certification operations at each milestone and make management decisions on the impact on certification operations, including the applicable laws and regulations, the scale of certification operations, the certification schedule, and the number of vehicles to be certified, for all vehicle development projects. (As of February 2025, a total of 35 such projects are being conducted.)Implemented discussions on countermeasures for worksite issues 10 times since previous report (22 times in total), reporting to the Board of Directors as appropriate. This system is ongoing.Human DevelopmentExpanding communication between management and employees to include not only development and certification, but also planning, production, sales and other certification-related worksites.Implemented regular communication through messages from the president (total of 14 times).Since February last year, Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda, who is responsible for the Group, took the lead in calling on Group companies to start Toyota's company-wide TPS training program for Certification Work. The aim of this initiative is to create a better work system through improvement. The president and other members of management are on-site daily at various genba, such as planning, development, design, production, and sales, which are connected to the certification process. This is being done to clarify stagnation factors in each process and to create a system to identify abnormalities.Toyota will continue to make company-wide efforts to prevent the recurrence of certification issues to once again gain the trust of stakeholders. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HIROSHIMA, Japan, Feb 27, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mazda Motor Corporation (Mazda) has announced that it conducted a demonstration operation of a cupola melting furnace (cupola), the core casting facility installed at its Hiroshima Plant, by fully replacing fossil fuels that emit CO2 during combustion with bio-coal briquettes, a biomass fuel derived from coconut shells, and confirmed the stable operation.The operation of a cupola that uses biomass fuel 100% has not been confirmed for social implementation in the world, and the company took on the challenge of conducting the demonstration experiment in collaboration with the foundry industry and local partners. In the future, Mazda will expand the circle of regional cooperation and promote an energy circulation scheme for local production for local consumption, aiming for carbon neutral (CN) operation of cupolas using waste-derived biomass fuels such as bio-coal briquettes by fiscal year 2030.Mazda has been promoting various initiatives to achieve CN at its global plants by 2035 based on the three pillars of "energy conservation," "shifting to renewable energies," and "introducing CN fuels, etc.," with the goal of achieving CN throughout its entire supply chain by 2050.Stable domestic procurement of raw materials is essential for a full conversion to biomass fuels which is in line with "introducing CN fuels," as one of the aforementioned initiatives. In March 2023, Mazda established the Cupola CN Co-creation Working Group by inviting volunteer companies and organizations to conduct research and development for the shift to biomass fuels, the establishment of production methods, and studies on the local procurement of raw materials. While bio-coal briquettes derived from coconut shells were used in the demonstration experiment this time, Mazda has been working to establish a locally produced, locally consumed energy circulation scheme in Hiroshima and neighboring areas, from biomass waste collection to production, with the aim of revitalizing local industries and contributing to the local communities. As part of such activities, Mazda has been collecting spent coffee bean husks from Tully's Coffee Shop*1 (operated by Tully's Coffee Japan Co., Ltd.) and vending machines*2 in the premises of Mazda Headquarters since November 2024, and confirmed through demonstration experiments that it is possible to produce bio-coal briquettes from these bean husks.Going forward, the company will work together with the local community to develop the local production for local consumption energy circulation scheme into a cooperative effort among industry, government, academia, and the private sector to realize stable raw material procurement of and implementation of fuel conversion.Mazda, together with the local communities, will steadily advance its challenge toward the achievement of CN throughout the supply chain in 2050, and contribute to the creation of an affluent society.For inquiries about biomass raw materials and fuel conversion technology for cupola:cupola-cn-info@mazda.co.jp Powertrain Engineering Dept., Production Engineering Div.For media inquiries, please contact below:mazda_hpr@mazda.co.jp Media Relations Dept., Mazda Motor Corporation(1) Franchisee: CULE Co., Ltd., Franchiser: Tully's Coffee Japan Co., Ltd. (2) Operated by Apex West Japan Co., Ltd. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Feb 27, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced that the company has been selected for the CDP’s “2024 Climate Change A List” for the second consecutive year. The CDP is an international non-profit organization that facilitates environmental information disclosure, and Honda was selected based on its initiatives in the areas of climate change and environmental transparency. The CDP is a not-for-profit charity that runs the global disclosure system for companies and local governments (cities, states and regions) around the world. The companies and local governments disclose their environmental information using the CDP questionnaire with three separate sectors – climate change, forest and water security. In 2024, more than 24,800 companies, including listed companies that account for more than 66% of global market capitalization, disclosed their environmental information. The CDP assesses the disclosed information on a score of A to D -, and companies with outstanding initiatives are named to the A List. Among more than 24,800 companies which disclosed environmental information for 2024, Honda was included in the short list of the companies making the A List.Honda is aiming to realize carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities Honda is involved in by 2050. To this end, Honda has been pursuing electrification of its products by setting and disclosing 2030 milestone targets for both the sales ratio of electrified products and the reduction rate of CO2 emissions intensity during product use for motorcycles, automobiles and power products, respectively. In the area of corporate activities, Honda has set and disclosed a target to reduce the total amount of CO2 emissions by 46% from its corporate activities by 2030 compared to the FY2020 level. Working toward this target, Honda has been improving production efficiency, introducing various energy-saving measures, shifting toward the use of low-carbon energy and facilitating the utilization of renewable energy. Honda views these initiatives as leading to the selection of Honda to the Climate Change A list.Honda will strive to realize a carbon-neutral society, while continuing to take a proactive approach to the initiatives to address climate change and the disclosure of its environmental information. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Australia, Pty. Ltd. (MHI-AUS), the Australian subsidiary of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), is expanding its business activities in Canberra to focus on providing support for the country's next general purpose frigate program and to strengthen its business network with related agencies and companies.MHI-AUS will prioritize measures to respond to requests from the Australian government in a timely manner, including providing flexible sales support, gathering information, and conveying information related to MHI products and services. The Japanese government is fully supportive of MHI's involvement in this project.In addition, as defense equipment and technology cooperation between Japan and Australia is progressing, MHI-AUS will promote mutual understanding and cooperation between Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Australian defense industrial partners to contribute to strengthening Japan-Australia defense cooperation.About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

As part of its corporate governance reform, NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) shifted to a Company with a Nominating Committee, etc. in fiscal 2023, and has been promoting the separation of oversight and execution and the clarification of the roles of each. In order to further strengthen the monitoring function of the Board of Directors from fiscal 2025, NEC has established a policy to strengthen corporate governance, focusing on the Board structure, CEO succession planning, and the remuneration system.Through this, NEC aims to further increase the transparency and objectivity of management, accelerate business growth, achieve the Mid-term Management Plan 2025, and sustainably enhance corporate value.1. Achieving a compact structure for the Board of DirectorsIn order to further invigorate discussions on medium- to long-term management policies and strategies at Board of Directors meetings, NEC will shift to a more optimal Board structure that is both sufficiently compact and has the necessary career experience and expertise in specialist fields, while also ensuring diversity.(1) Appointment of Independent Outside DirectorsOutside directors are selected for their skills and experience, which contribute to the sustainable growth of the corporate value of the company and enable the status of execution to be appropriately monitored. After the appointment, outside directors are also subject to peer review as part of the evaluation of effectiveness of the Board of Directors each year, and decisions on reappointment or dismissal are made based on the results of this review. However, the number of times they can be reappointed is limited to eight times.(2) Appointment of Inside DirectorsInside directors are selected from representatives of the execution side where substantial authority has been delegated from the Board of Directors. NEC aims to have the optimal structure for a Board of Directors as a Company with a Nominating Committee, etc., by having a minimum number of inside directors, centering on the CEO.2. CEO succession planning and the approach to developing and selecting the management team on the executive sideIn order to continuously and fairly appoint a CEO who will lead the sustainable enhancement of the company's global corporate value, the Nominating Committee and the CEO will work together to implement CEO succession planning while ensuring transparency and objectivity. In addition, the CEO will develop and appoint the necessary personnel for the management team that leads the business based on the company's medium- to long-term strategies.(1) The role of the Nominating Committee and CEO in CEO succession planningThe Nominating Committee is responsible for "determining the appropriate time for CEO succession" and "identifying candidates for the next CEO." It also supports the development of the next generation of management talent by the CEO. In addition, the CEO is responsible for "developing candidates for the next CEO" and "proposing candidates for succession to the Nominating Committee."(2) CEO term of office, decision on reappointment or dismissalIn order for the Nominating Committee to determine the appropriate timing for CEO succession, the CEO's term of office is not fixed. Instead, the Nominating Committee conducts an "evaluation review" each year and determines whether the CEO will be reappointed or dismissed in the following year based on the CEO's intentions, business performance, a 360-degree evaluation of the CEO, as well as the status of the development of the next CEO candidate.(3) Requirements for the next CEO candidateThe Nominating Committee will assess the candidates proposed by the CEO for the CEO successor from the perspective of their necessary management qualities and character as the next CEO, such as "transformational leadership," "vision and communication skills," "sense of responsibility and determination," "development and formation of an optimal management team," "ability to continue learning," and "ethics," and will select them in consideration of the medium-term management plan, management policies, and management environment.(4) Development and appointment of a management team to lead businessWith regard to Corporate Senior Executive Vice President, Corporate Executive Vice President, and Corporate Senior Vice President, including Executive Officers, NEC has been making decisions on reappointment and dismissal on a position-by-position basis every year from the perspective of "the right time, the right place, the right person." From April 2025 onwards, in order to accelerate flexible appointments of executives, including promoting young talent, ensuring diversity, as well as promotions, demotions and reappointments, NEC will thoroughly develop management talent and promote generational change by setting a maximum of three reappointments to the same position as a guideline.3. How remuneration systems should be structured to provide incentives for enhancing corporate valueNEC will establish an executive remuneration system that provides incentives for competing and winning against global competitors, with the aim of enhancing corporate value through the achievement of the Mid-term Management Plan 2025 and the next Mid-term Management Plan, which aims for even greater heights.Specifically, NEC aims to set competitive and superior remuneration levels in line with its growth and to increase the ratio of stock compensation in particular, thereby linking management to a constant awareness of corporate value. To accelerate this movement, NEC will expand its stock compensation system.(1) Introduction of stock compensation for Outside DirectorsIn order to further enhance the sharing of value with shareholders and strengthen awareness of the need for continuous enhancement in corporate value, NEC will introduce a non-performance-based, Restricted Stock Remuneration Plan for outside directors from June 2025.(2) Expansion of stock compensation for Executive Officers and othersIn order to strengthen the sharing of value with shareholders and to secure excellent human resources to take on management roles, in addition to the current performance-based stock compensation, a new non-performance-based Board Incentive Plan Trust will be introduced from April 2025 for Corporate Senior Vice President and above, including Executive Officers and others, and the ratio of stock compensation will be increased.Comment from Harufumi Mochizuki, Chairman of the Nominating CommitteeAs NEC looks to enhance its corporate value on a global scale, the transition to a company with a Nominating Committee etc. was a catalyst for us to discuss the ideal structure for a Board of Directors that will lead to continuous growth in corporate value and the development of the next generation of management for true growth. The selection of directors and support for the development of the next generation of management, including the next CEO, is an important role of the Nominating Committee, and we will continue to operate in a way that contributes to enhancing corporate value.Comment from Masashi Oka, Chairman of the Compensation CommitteeIn addition to achieving the goals of the Mid-term Management Plan 2025, the Compensation Committee has been discussing the direction and form of executive compensation that will serve as an incentive to achieve a competitive advantage globally over the medium to long term during the next Mid-term Management Plan period. As a result, NEC will introduce stock compensation for outside directors and increase the ratio of stock-based compensation for Officers from fiscal 2025, accelerating the strengthening of awareness of sustainable enhancement of corporate value. In addition, NEC will continue to strengthen the design and operation of its remuneration to ensure that it functions as an incentive to enhance corporate value and to secure promising management talent.About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

SINGAPORE, Feb 26, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Olympus Corporation of Asia Pacific Limited (Olympus APAC), the regional headquarters of Olympus Corporation in Asia and Oceania, today announced a milestone for its iTind™ device with expanded availability across major markets in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, a move in line with its commitment and purpose of making people’s lives healthier, safer and more fulfilling.iTindAlready marketed in the United States and Europe, the iTind procedure is a minimally invasive solution for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate. With a launch in Korea scheduled in March, iTind will become available in six1 markets across APAC.“With our upcoming launch in Korea, achieving wider availability of the iTind device in APAC is an important milestone for physicians and patients in our region. We’re excited to provide increased access to a minimally invasive outpatient BPH procedure for suitable patients, addressing a common health problem for men over 50 with the risk of BPH increasing with age. Symptoms of BPH include frequent urination with a sense of urgency and a weak urinary stream and excessive urination at night. The iTind procedure provides a rapid and effective patient-focused treatment option, with the added benefit of the procedure being able to be performed in a clinic room under local anaesthesia, helping ease pressure on hospital capacity.” said Daisuke Goto, Head of Surgical Business at Olympus APAC.As part of the roll-out of the iTind device across the region, Olympus has designed a comprehensive training programme to support Physicians and to maximise the success of incorporating the iTind procedure as part of their clinical practice.Olympus will continue its efforts to accelerate market development of the iTind minimally invasive BPH solution, providing more patients and physicians with access to this novel procedure, strengthening the care pathway and elevating the standard of care for patients with BPH.About iTindThe iTind, a temporarily implantable nitinol device, supports the relief of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to BPH, offers a minimally invasive alternative for BPH treatment without the need for medications, permanent implants, or tissue removal. This innovative approach provides a short-term treatment option that reshapes the prostatic urethra and improves patient quality of life. In September 2023, the iTind procedure was included in the American Urological Association (AUA) clinical practice guideline for management of LUTS attributed to BPH. In the United States, two new Category I CPT codes2 for the iTind procedure went into effect January 1, 2025, which enable billing for the procedure at all sites of services.1 Thailand, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, India, Korea2 Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code is a numeric code that identifies a medical procedure or service maintained by American Medical Association (AMA). Healthcare professionals use CPT codes to bill for medical services. About OlympusAt Olympus, we are committed to Our Purpose of making people’s lives healthier, safer and more fulfilling. As a global medical technology company, we partner with healthcare professionals to provide innovative solutions and services for early detection, diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment, aiming to improve patient outcomes by elevating the standard of care in targeted disease states. For more than 100 years, Olympus has pursued a goal of contributing to society by producing products designed with the purpose of delivering optimal outcomes for its customers around the world. For more information, visit https://www.olympus-global.com/ and follow our global X account: @Olympus_Corp.Media contact:Mail: Global-Public_Relations@olympus.comOlympus Corp [TYO: 7733] [ADR: OLYMY] [STU: OLY1] [FRA: OLYS] https://www.olympus-global.com Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Kawasaki and Tokyo, Feb 25, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu Limited, ANA X Inc., Toshiba Data Corporation, and Kawasaki City today announced the launch of a pilot program aimed at achieving a decarbonized society through utilizing each company’s smartphone application. The program will commence from February 27, 2025.This pilot program will utilize a database, developed by the Ministry of the Environment and other companies, to visualize CO2 reductions and provide feedback to residents and workers of Kawasaki City on their CO2 reductions achieved through environmentally conscious actions. This is the first trial in Japan to use this database. The program aims to quantitatively assess citizen environmental actions, promote individual environmental awareness, and contribute to the realization of a decarbonized society.Pilot project overview1. Pilot Period:February 27, 2025 to March 28, 20252. Participants:Residents and workers of Kawasaki City3. Implementation Details:Participants will download one or more participating companies' smartphone applications and register their age, residential area, and other information.Fujitsu's platform will aggregate participants' mobility, purchase and environmental action data from the applications, calculating and visualizing CO2 reductions based on the standardized metric. Participants can view their CO2 reductions resulting from their environmentally conscious actions through Eco Potential, a web application developed by Fujitsu. The aggregation of data from multiple applications into this single application allows for a more efficient and easily understandable evaluation of participants' environmental efforts, fostering sustained positive environmental behavior. The research partners will evaluate the social value of the CO2 reductions created by these systems and determine the key elements needed for wider adoption of the standardized metric.4. Roles:Fujitsu:Development of the platform and the Eco Potential application.Provision of Green Carb0n Club, a Kawasaki City-based application that links real-world environmental actions.Integration of the environmental action data into Eco Potential.ANA X:Provision of ANA Pocket, a mobile application which allows users to earn points and ANA miles for various modes of transportation (walking, cycling, driving, trains, and planes).Integration of the travel data into Eco Potential.Toshiba Data:Provision of data obtained from Toshiba Tec Corporation’s SmartReceipt, an electronic receipt service which digitizes purchased item details typically provided on paper receipts.Integration of the purchase data into Eco Potential.The City of Kawasaki:Providing advisory services aimed at fostering behavioral change among its citizens.Providing and coordinating access to a suitable field test environment.PromotionJapan aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, targeting a 46% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by FY2030 (compared to FY2013). To achieve this target, a significant reduction in CO2 emission from citizens' daily lives is indispensable.Kawasaki City has set ambitious targets of a 50% reduction in city-wide CO2 emissions and a 45% or greater reduction in household emissions in the city by FY2030 (both compared to FY2013), actively pursuing initiatives to achieve a decarbonized society.Moreover, Fujitsu, ANA X and Toshiba Data have been actively engaged in discussions within the framework of the Ministry of the Environment's ‘Decokatsu’, a national movement to change people's behavior and lifestyles toward the achievement of carbon neutrality.Under this national movement, The POSITIVE ACTION Initiative (PAI), an initiative to create a new and prosperous lifestyle connected to decarbonization, towards creating a world where citizens actively engage in environmental actions. This pilot program serves as the first step in our efforts to promote the early social implementation of the newly developed CO2 reduction standard metric, contributing to our decarbonization initiatives.Future PlansFujitsu, ANA X., Toshiba Data, and Kawasaki City will continue to explore ways to promote citizen’s environmental behavioral change and implement standardized CO2 reduction indicators. The partners will also investigate expanding data integration with Eco Potential and exploring ways to monetize achieved CO2 reductions, such as through voluntary carbon credits and community benefits.About FujitsuFujitsu’s purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers in over 100 countries, our 124,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: Computing, Networks, AI, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.7 trillion yen (US$26 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: www.fujitsu.com.Press ContactsFujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiries (https://tinyurl.com/5n76ynkb) Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Feb 24, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - ENEOS Corporation and Mitsubishi Corporation have agreed to jointly conduct a Front End Engineering Design to advance the study of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (“SAF”) production facility at the ENEOS Wakayama Plant in Arida City, Japan (the “FEED”).ENEOS has been studying the feasibility of such a facility since 2022. To advance this study to the next stage, ENEOS and MC, who have been jointly assessing the feasibility on the commercialization of SAF, will work together on the FEED. ENEOS has an established sales network, manufacturing and refining technologies and the expertise in feedstock procurement, while MC has expertise in the procurement of feedstock in Japan and around the world. By combining each companies' respective strengths, ENEOS and MC will accelerate the study with the aim of developing large-scale production of SAF in Japan.The facility, subject to the result of the FEED, is expected to produce approximately 300,000 tons (400,000 KL) of SAF per year from FY2028 onwards, together with bio-naphtha and bio-diesel fuel fractions as byproducts. Its feedstock will include used cooking oil, animal fat, and other wastes and byproducts.ENEOS and MC place a high priority on addressing climate change issues, and both companies are actively promoting initiatives to reduce CO2 emissions with the aim of helping to achieve a decarbonized, circular society. As part of this effort, the companies will move forward with their study on SAF.Reference:(Released on February 21, 2025) ENEOS Selected for the “Support Project for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Production and Supply Chain Development”: www.eneos.co.jp/english/newsrelease/2024/pdf/20250221_02.pdf(Released on April 18, 2022) Joint Feasibility Study on the Commercialization ofSustainable Aviation Fuel: www.mitsubishicorp.com/jp/en/news/release/2022/0000048990.htmlInquiry Recipient:Mitsubishi Corporation Press Relations TeamTelephone:+81-3-3210-2171ENEOS Corporation Publlic Relations Department, Media Relations Grouppr@eneos.comTelephone:+81-3-6257-7150 Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Feb 21, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda became the first company in the automotive industry to receive the highest ranking of “3 stars,” as part of the FIA*1 Road Safety Index, set forth by the FIA to enable businesses and organizations to measure their road safety footprint.The 3-star recognition was announced on February 17 at the “Challenge 2030: Achieving the Global Road Safety Goals”, a concurrent event of the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety which was held in Marrakech, Morocco, from February 18 through 20, 2025, local time.The FIA Road Safety (RS) Index is a new tool designed to enable companies and organizations to visualize and measure the impact of their operations on road safety and achieve more sustainable road traffic. The Index provides comprehensive assessment and evaluation of the safety footprint of each company/organization based on various factors such as their road safety goals, commitment, and the number of road traffic fatalities and injuries across their entire value chain.Additionally, the FIA RS Index system contains two ratings: 1) the “supply chain rating,” which covers a broad range of corporate activities from procurement of raw materials, to development and production of products, and customer delivery of the products, and 2) the “product/service rating,” which evaluates the safety aspects of products/services. Honda became the first company in the automotive industry to undergo audits for both ratings and received the highest rating, 3 stars(2), in both ratings.Striving to realize a collision-free society for everyone sharing the road, Honda has been committed to pursuing safety initiatives, from both hardware and software perspectives, under the Honda global safety slogan of “Safety for Everyone.” As milestones of its challenge, Honda is striving to reduce the number of traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles worldwide by 50% by 2030(3), then to achieve zero traffic collision fatalities by 2050.Becoming the first automaker to receive 3 stars as part of the FIA RS Index represents Honda’s strong commitment to the pursuit of road safety. Safety initiatives Honda has been conducting based on its long-term safety strategy were highly evaluated, as well as the fact that Honda has been tracking the number of traffic collision fatalities and serious injuries across its value chain, by age and by type of road user, as its road safety footprint.Leveraging the knowledge amassed through its long history of safety initiatives, Honda will proactively support the standardization of indexes for evaluating road safety initiatives. Through such activities, Honda will contribute to solving societal issues centered around road safety from the perspective of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and continue its pursuit of safety toward the realization of the joy and freedom of mobility and a more enjoyable and sustainable society. (1) Fédération Internationale de lʼAutomobile(2) The scope of Honda operations evaluated by FIA this time is limited to operations related to motorcycle and automobile production and sales in Japan.(3) Reduce traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles per 10,000 units sold by 50% by 2030 compared to 2020.Comments by FIA Secretary General for Automobile Mobility Willem Groenewald“Safety is at the heart of our mission in both motorsport and for the daily road user. Through the FIA Road Safety Index, we help companies measure and improve their impact on road safety. We are pleased to announce that Honda is the first car and motorcycle manufacturer to achieve the Index's highest rating of 3 stars both for its supply chain and safety-related products and services. Honda has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement in road safety.”Comments by Hideaki Takaishi, General Manager of Safety Planning Division,Corporate Planning Unit, Honda Motor Co., Ltd.“Honda is honored to have our long-standing safety initiatives recognized through successful completion of the FIA Road Safety Index. For over 50 years, we have focused not only on developing safe motorcycle and automobile products but also on spreading knowledge of safe driving and riding practices among our customers through our awareness-building activities. The FIA Road Safety Index has proven to be a promising tool to objectively evaluate the sincere safety initiatives of Honda. We are expecting that widespread commitment to safety initiatives among more companies and organizations will lead to reduction of traffic collisions around the world.” Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Feb 21, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. became the first automobile manufacturer to partner with the United Nations Road Safety Fund (UNRSF) to contribute to global initiatives to reduce fatalities from traffic collisions, including a previously announced commitment of US$3 million over 5 years. Honda and UNRSF revealed the direction of the joint initiatives of their partnership at the UNRSF High-Level Pledging Forum(1), held on February 17, 2025 in Marrakech, Morocco.By combining the knowledge and know-how Honda has amassed through its long history of developing safety technologies and promoting safe driving/riding with the global network of the UNRSF, Honda and UNRSF will support traffic collision analysis and the road safety policies of various countries.Striving to realize a collision-free society for everyone sharing the road, Honda has been committed to pursuing safety initiatives from both hardware and software perspectives, under the Honda global safety slogan of “Safety for Everyone.” Honda is striving to achieve zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles worldwide by 2050, with a milestone to reduce fatalities by 50% by 2030(2).In this partnership, Honda and UNRSF will focus on two key areas – traffic collision analysis and support for road safety policies – and contribute to the reduction of fatalities from traffic collisions by working together with various countries around the world. Moreover, striving to reduce traffic collision fatalities involving motorcycles in emerging countries, which account for a significant portion of worldwide traffic collision fatalities, Honda and UNRSF have made emerging nations, particularly in Asia, as a focus area.(1) A concurrent event of the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety held from February 18 through 20, 2025 in Marrakech, Morocco.(2) Reduce traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles per 10,000 units sold by 50% by 2030 compared to 2020.Focus of Honda-UNRSF Partnership1. Traffic collision analysis in each country(Understanding the actual situations of traffic collisions and strengthening the monitoring of the effects of road safety measures)To enhance the effectiveness of initiatives taken to reduce traffic collision fatalities, Honda and UNRSF will strive to establish a system for understanding the actual situations of traffic collisions and monitoring the effectiveness of road safety measures in each country. In emerging countries, there is a lack of data necessary for the analysis of traffic collisions, making it difficult to analyze the causes of such incidents. To address this issue, Honda and UNRSF will clarify the types of data that should be collected and encourage each country to gather such data. Moreover, by leveraging the know-how in traffic collision analysis Honda has amassed over many years, monitoring of the effects of road safety measures will be strengthened to enhance the practical effectiveness of the measures. 2. Support for road safety policies in each country (Supporting the institutionalization of traffic rules, proposing infrastructure improvements, and strengthening road safety awareness activities)By leveraging the extensive experience of Honda in developing safety technologies and promoting safe driving/riding, Honda and UNRSF will provide support for emerging countries, particularly in Asia. This will include advocating for legislation of appropriate speed limits, mandatory protective gear (helmets, seat belt use) and licensing systems, as well as assisting in strengthening the enforcement of traffic rules, proposing infrastructure improvements, and enhancing road safety awareness activities.Furthermore, Honda will donate a total of US$3 million to the UNRSF over five years from 2025 to 2030 for the Honda-UNRSF collaboration in road safety initiatives.Comments by Hideaki Takaishi, General Manager of Safety Planning Division, Corporate Planning Unit, Honda Motor Co., Ltd.“Honda has set a clear safety goal to strive for zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles worldwide by 2050. Toward this goal, Honda is continuing its initiatives to enhance safety and reduce traffic collision fatalities worldwide. For many years, Honda has been committed to safety initiatives not only from the hardware perspective such as the development of safety technologies, but also from software perspectives including the promotion of traffic safety awareness among everyone sharing the road. Through our partnership with the UNRSF, we will integrate the knowledge, know-how and network of both parties and strengthen outreach and engagement with various countries with an aim to achieve the milestone of halving worldwide traffic collision fatalities by 2030.”Comments by Nneka Henry, Head of the UN Road Safety Fund“We welcome Honda as the first vehicle manufacturer to join the UNRSF and its governing body. Their contribution through sharing the knowledge and know-how of a mobility company is one of the largest we have received and will help us direct vital resources to high-impact projects that save lives in developing countries. Honda’s leadership sets an important example for the private sector’s role in tackling the global road safety crisis.”For reference:Honda Report 2024 (Integrated report):https://global.honda/en/sustainability/integratedreport/Honda ESG Data Book 2024:https://global.honda/en/sustainability/report.html Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Feb 21, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Logistics Corporation (Head Office: Chuo-ku, Tokyo, President: Hidechika Saito), Mitsubishi Corporation, and Yourstand Inc. will introduce medium-size EV truck from March 2025 to reduce CO2 emissions in pharmaceutical transportation and delivery operations conducted by Mitsubishi Logistics Corporation Group company DP Network Co., Ltd., aiming for completely CO2-free electrification of logistics.In this case, an EV charger has been installed at Mitsubishi Logistics Corporation’s base in the Misato area of Saitama, and an “eCanter” manufactured by Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation will be introduced to start transportation and delivery operations to customers in March. Various data related to the vehicle's range and temperature management will be collected for future developments.Mitsubishi Corporation, in collaboration with Yourstand provided a one-stop charging service to Mitsubishi Logistics Corporation, including the proposal of charging location, charger selection, and charging equipment installation. Yourstand’s charging station management system for corporate clients, named “Yourstand for Business” (hereinafter YS4B) will be used for charging management, enabling integrated management of charging times, Real-time monitoring or charging status and CO2 reduction, ensuring a highly convenient operation for customers. Additionally, by using YS4B's charging schedule management function, charging times can be shifted to periods when electricity prices are lower, achieving cost-effective charging.The EV truck will be leased by Mitsubishi Auto Leasing Corporation and MC Retail Energy Co., Ltd. will provide a renewable energy plan exclusively for EV charging. As a result, all CO2 emissions from charging to driving will be virtually zero, and this will contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) Scope 3 emissions from logistics for pharmaceutical manufacturers.In addition to the introduction of EV trucks, Mitsubishi Logistics Corporation Group is working to reduce GHG emissions throughout the supply chain using “MLC Green Action”, a CO2 visualization and reduction service that provides “Emission Monitoring Cargo Route Finder”, an international route search and GHG calculation system, and proposes CO2 emission reduction solutions.Mitsubishi Corporation is targeting the commercial mobility sectors such as logistics and taxis, which require decarbonization, and is advancing the realization of electrification and decarbonization of commercial mobility through cross-sectoral solution development in the mobility x energy field, utilizing Mitsubishi Corporation's comprehensive capabilities, including energy management, fleet management (auto leasing), battery management, and renewable energy.Since its founding in 2018, Yourstand has been engaged in the EV charging infrastructure business with the mission of "enabling cleaner mobility," focusing on "Base charging." Since 2023, Yourstand has been offering corporate EV charging solutions, providing one-stop services from multifunctional charging management through software to the design and installation of charging infrastructure tailored to customer needs.For inquiries regarding this news release contact:Mitsubishi Logistics Corporation Corporate Communications Chamber TEL: +81-3-3278-6652Mitsubishi Corporation Press Relations Team TEL: +81-3-3210-2171Yourstand Inc. Public Relations Contact: pr@yourstand-ev.comInquiry Recipient:Mitsubishi CorporationTelephone:+81-3-3210-2171 Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Feb 21, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) today announced the results of the latest NEC Innovation Challenge, a global accelerator program sponsored by NEC and partner companies that invites startup companies across the globe to apply and submit innovative solutions under the four key themes of Healthcare, Sustainability, Digital Operational Excellence, and Media/Entertainment. The first program was held in 2022, making the NEC Innovation Challenge 2024 the organization’s third event. During the application period from August 22 to October 4, 2024, 708 applications were submitted.Eight startup companies passed through the primary screening, interviewing and mentoring phases, then participated in a final screening held online on February 14, 2025. As a result of the final judging after each company's pitch, the winners of the NEC Award, NOFF Award (NOFF: NEC Orchestrating Future Fund), and DNP Award (DNP: Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.) were decided.1. NEC AwardThe winning company may select one of the following options.First option:Provided with opportunities to collaborate with NEC and a 2.2 million yen prize to accelerate collaboration.Second option:Opportunity to explore business development in Japan with support from NEC. Travel expenses up to 2.2 million yen and collaboration assistance with internal teams, partners, and stakeholders.Winning startupCompany name (country): new windowPrevu3D Inc. (Canada)Theme: Digital Operational ExcellenceOverview: Converts point cloud data from factories and plants into high-resolution, lightweight 3D digital twin spaces2. NOFF AwardOpportunity to discuss investment from the NEC Orchestrating Future Fund (NOFF) which is an ecosystem-type corporate venture capital (CVC) fund managed by Translink Capital.Winning startupCompany name (country): Prevu3D Inc. (Canada)Theme: Digital Operational ExcellenceOverview: Converts point cloud data from factories and plants into high-resolution, lightweight 3D digital twin spaces3. DNP AwardProviding opportunities to collaborate with DNP for POC implementation and/or be able to discuss potential funding support for developing the business.Winning startupCompany name (country): new windowAlgae Scope Ltd. (Italy)Theme: SustainabilityOverview: Develops 100% seaweed-based bio-coating materials as an alternative to increasingly regulated PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)“Congratulations to all the startups awarded at the NEC Innovation Challenge 2024. DNP is honored to have participated in this wonderful program as a Platinum Partner. We were deeply moved by the passion and creativity of those who proposed innovative solutions in various fields. Leveraging our unique strengths in ‘Printing and Information’ DNP will continue to create new value and contribute to society in collaboration with NEC and startups,” said Ryota Chiba, Senior Corporate Officer, DNP.“NEC regards collaboration with startups around the world as an important strategy, and we received many applications for the 2024 program. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those who applied. We are delighted to have been able to work with DNP and other sponsoring companies to create new value. We are confident that we can create innovative solutions by combining the cutting-edge products of the winning startups with DNP's advanced technological capabilities and business base, and NEC's expertise. Going forward, NEC will continue to promote collaboration and create innovation,” said Shigeki Wada, Corporate Senior Vice President, NEC Corporation.NEC Innovation Challenge 2024 siteURL: https://nec.agorize.com/en/challenges/nec-innovation-challenge-2024/ About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Feb 21, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) has developed a Near Real-time RAN Intelligent Controller (Near-RT RIC) platform and RIC applications that enable flexible and intelligent network control that is compliant with the O-RAN Alliance (*1) specifications for virtualized Radio Access Networks (vRAN).In recent years, as the spread of cutting-edge technologies such as generative AI has progressed rapidly, there are high expectations for the provision of new user experiences that utilize these technologies. As the infrastructure that supports these experiences, 5G networks require high scalability and flexibility to effectively support new services, as well as mechanisms to efficiently operate existing services.In order to provide an advanced 5G network that meets these requirements, NEC has developed a Near-RT RIC platform that enables flexible and intelligent network control in accordance with O-RAN Alliance specifications for vRAN and runs on general-purpose hardware. This makes it possible to dynamically customize RAN (base station) settings according to service requirements and network conditions. Furthermore, as RIC applications that run on this platform, NEC has implemented functions for load balancing between cells, guaranteeing the Service Level Agreement (SLA) for slices, and achieving high reliability with acceptable latency (*2).Features of NEC's Near-RT RIC:The Near-RT RIC developed by NEC can flexibly support functional enhancements such as quality improvement, SLA guarantees, and power saving by dynamically customizing RAN operations in response to diversifying service requirements by adding RIC applications, including the following:RIC Application Examples:1. Load balancing between cellsThe application can quickly resolve load imbalances between adjacent cells, and in environments where network load fluctuates depending on time of day and location, it can improve the throughput of terminals connected to cells with high load.2. SLA guarantee for slicesBy dynamically optimizing the radio resources for each slice, it is possible to provide quality of service (QoS) in accordance with the SLA to the terminals connected to the slice, even in a congested network environment.3. High reliability with acceptable latencyBy using AI to analyze acceptable latency and fluctuations in radio quality, and dynamically optimizing radio control for each terminal, it is possible to increase the satisfaction rate of acceptable latency in environments where there is a high demand for reliability in the arrival of data within an acceptable latency.Moreover, since RIC control is separated from conventional RAN functions and operates on a virtualized platform via an interface that complies with O-RAN Alliance specifications, it is possible to quickly incorporate hardware and software innovations related to AI.By utilizing these mechanisms to automate and make RAN operations more autonomous, it is possible to continuously improve the value of vRAN while keeping Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) down.NEC has also demonstrated the effectiveness of its high-reliability function for achieving acceptable latency in an indoor test environment using 5G vRAN.Overview and Results of the Technical Verification:Using 5G vRAN, NEC built a network for remotely controlling mobile robots (*3) in an indoor environment and conducted a demonstration experiment of an RIC application that achieves high reliability in terms of acceptable latency. By dynamically optimizing radio control for each mobile robot terminal, NEC demonstrated that the frequency of packets exceeding the acceptable latency could be reduced to less than 1/6 of the frequency when RIC was not used.Future Developments:NEC will continue to contribute to improving service quality in the mobile network market, from corporate digital transformation (DX) to general users, by expanding Near-RT RIC applications that improve network quality, save power, and improve operational autonomy using AI, in order to achieve the advancement of vRAN with an eye on Beyond 5G/6G.*Part of the results of this news release is based on results obtained from the "Research and Development Project of the Enhanced Infrastructures for Post-5G Information and Communication Systems" (JPNP20017), commissioned by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).(1) O-RAN AllianceAn international industry organization that promotes standardization with the aim of realizing open and scalable next-generation radio access networks, including 5G.(2) Acceptable latencyThe communication latency that users and/or applications can tolerate.(3) Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR)About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Feb 20, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. announced today that it has been selected for “Human CapitalLeaders 2024” and “Human Capital Management Gold Quality” in the “Human Capital Survey 2024” jointly conducted by HR Technology Consortium, HR Research Institute (ProFuture Inc.), MS&AD InterRisk Research & Consulting, Inc. and Association to Confirm the Human Investment Value for Enterprise. This is the second consecutive year that Eisai has been selected.In the “Human Capital Survey 2024” (conducted between August and December 2024), 17 highly rated companies were selected for “Human Capital Management Gold Quality”, and 10 companies that were recognized by experts as having made particularly outstanding efforts were selected as “Human Capital Leaders 2024” out of approximately 400 participating companies and organizations. Eisai was highly evaluated for its various initiatives implementing human capital management aligned with its Articles of Incorporation based on detailed analysis of its current situation and future aspirations, proactive information disclosure with unique performance indicators such as employee impact accounting, as well as its measures for facilitating smooth internal communication.To increase the value of our employees, Eisai made a partial amendment to the Articles of Incorporation at an Ordinary GeneralMeeting of Shareholders in 2022, clearly stating that it will strive to “ensure stable employment”, “respect human rights and diversity”, “provide full opportunities for growth to support self- fulfillment”, and “create an employee-friendly environment”. Eisai has also reinforced its human resource initiatives, including the formulation of an “Integrated Human Resource Strategy”, with the pillars of “Wellbeing including health of employees”, “Diverse work style”, “Development and growth of employees”, and “Growth ofthe organization and businesses”, as well as introducing a compensation system based on employee roles since 2023, along with a personnel assessment system putting high value on employee actions with the aim of encouraging employees to growautonomously and motivate them to serve in higher positions. Eisai promotes proactive information disclosure regarding its initiatives on human capital management in its “Value Creation Report” and its corporate website’s “Sustainability” section, as wellas its “Human Capital Report” which has been published since 2023 summarizing its human capital initiatives and KPI linked to its human resource strategies.Eisai is seeking to provide impact to not only our shareholders, but various stakeholders including our customers and local communities by delivering new value to patients and the people in the daily living domain through the activities of our employees who are the only stakeholders who can directly contribute to our corporate concept, human health care.Media Inquiries:Public Relations Department, Eisai Co., Ltd.+81-(0)3-3817-5120 Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

PALO ALTO, CA, Feb 19, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC X, the Silicon Valley venture studio backed by NEC Corporation’s portfolio of advanced technologies and global businesses, today announced a new partnership with Carbide Ventures, a leading venture capital firm with hands-on mentorship and a proven track record of founding and rapidly scaling B2B SaaS startups.Carbide Ventures is led by an experienced team that brings expertise in growth and fundraising to NEC X’s new windowElev X! programs. Hiro Yoshikawa, founder of Treasure Data, scaled the company to $200M ARR before leading its $600M acquisition by Arm. Dan Weirich adds to the team’s depth with a track record of successful IPO exits.Elev X! empowers tech entrepreneurs with a unique blend of collaboration, R&D resources, capital and access to NEC’s extensive ecosystem to drive early-stage startup success.The partnership will expand mutual access between Elev X! startups and Carbide Ventures’ vast networks of investors and entrepreneurs, providing even more resources and opportunities for new investments from Carbide Ventures and others. Additionally, Carbide Ventures leaders, who have personally raised hundreds of millions, will become mentors for Elev X! participants, offering first-hand insights into fundraising, direct investments and guidance on exploring exit strategies."Carbide Ventures’ leadership embodies the entrepreneurial spirit our Elev X! programs are designed to foster," said Shintaro Matsumoto, President and CEO of NEC X. "In addition to new funding opportunities for startups, this partnership accelerates NEC X’s ability to drive groundbreaking technologies into global markets. Together, we’ll equip early-stage companies to scale faster and thrive in a fiercely competitive world.""Building a company is never easy—I’ve lived it firsthand. That’s why having the right long-term partners is essential," said Hiro Yoshikawa, General Partner at Carbide Ventures. "Partnering with NEC X allows us to merge their world-class innovation expertise with Carbide Venture’s hands-on scaling strategy. Together, we’re creating a powerful launchpad to drive founders from startup beginnings to global impact."Carbide Ventures will join NEC X’s rapidly growing partner network, including leading accelerators, investors, R&D labs, and 6,000+ entrepreneurs. Other notable collaborations in this network include partnerships with Alchemist Accelerator, Entrepreneurs Roundtable Accelerator, SVG Ventures|THRIVE, Sand Hill Angels and more.About Carbide VenturesCarbide Ventures is an early-stage investment firm committed to backing high-potential startups at the pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages. Led by former operators, the firm understands both the excitement and challenges of scaling businesses to $100M+ ARR. Its team’s hands-on experience enables it to provide strategic guidance and operational expertise to the entrepreneurs it supports. With a strong focus on the US-Japan corridor, Carbide Ventures assists companies in entering the Japanese market while also helping Japanese startups expand globally. Its global investment philosophy, enables it to seek out and invest in the most promising entrepreneurs, regardless of location, with a portfolio spanning North America, Asia, and Europe.About NEC XNEC X is an innovation powerhouse and curator of disruptive startups backed by the global technology leadership of NEC. Leveraging 125 years of IT and network technologies expertise, NEC X’s startup-focused approach transforms visionary ideas into commercial successes that revolutionize how we work and live. Since its inception in 2018, NEC X has helped launch and grow more than 100 startups.Their Silicon Valley programs – Elev X! Ignite and Elev X! Boost – equip early-stage startup founders with the tools to fast-track their tech development and adoption. Elev X! fuels startup success from inception to launch, connecting innovators with NEC’s 45,000 patents; global network of partners, mentors and advisors; reach into 55+ international markets; and $8 billion R&D ecosystem.For more information, visit https://nec-x.com and new windowhttps://www.elev-x.com. About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential.For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

MANAMA, Bahrain, Feb 19, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Power, a power solutions brand of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), today announced the successful completion of the Power Station 5 Block 4 gas turbine combined cycle (GTCC) power plant at Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba). This plant is powered by Mitsubishi Power's state-of-the-art, hydrogen-ready M701JAC gas turbine and steam turbine.The high-efficiency power plant was developed by a Mitsubishi Power consortium with SEPCOIII to expand Alba's captive power generation capacity in line with its growth and sustainability objectives, and to help accelerate the sustainable economic development of Bahrain.With a combined cycle output of 680.9 MW, the Mitsubishi Power M701JAC gas turbine represents the first deployment of this advanced JAC technology in a Middle Eastern aluminium smelter, contributing to Alba's decarbonization goals while ensuring energy security for its operations.Mitsubishi Power was able to complete the contract a month ahead of schedule and this new milestone marks the successful execution of the project, reinforcing Mitsubishi Power's track record in the delivery of high-efficiency and reliable power solutions for energy-intensive industries.The announcement was made during a ceremony held at Alba's Power Station 5 site attended by high-level officials from Alba including the Chairman of the Board Khalid Al Rumaihi, Chief Executive Officer Ali Al Baqali, Chief Power Officer Amin Sultan, and Alba's Executive Management Team and a senior delegation from Mitsubishi Power led by Mr. Takashi Tozawa, Vice President, Energy Systems at MHI and Mr. Khalid Salem, President, Middle East and North Africa, Mitsubishi Power. Senior officials from SEPCOIII were also present including SEPCOIII's Vice President, Kong Lingfen.Mr. Takashi Tozawa, Vice President, Energy Systems at MHI commented: "We are honored to celebrate this landmark project which introduced Mitsubishi Power's state-of-the-art power generation technology to the MENA region and we are proud to mark the completion of this significant milestone for our partner Alba. The successful start of commercial operation at the Power Station 5 Block 4 project with our world-leading, hydrogen-ready M701JAC Gas Turbine is a testament to our dedication to support our customers meet their energy goals as well as to decarbonizing heavy industry. This milestone not only underscores our strong collaboration but also plays a pivotal role in advancing Bahrain's Economic Vision 2030 and building a sustainable energy future for the Kingdom."Mr. Khalid Al Rumaihi, Chairman of Alba's Board of Directors added: "Power Station 5 Block 4 isn't just an expansion of our power capacity, it's a testament for Alba's vision for a sustainable future, and a powerful symbol of what is possible when innovation and partnership converge. This Project, delivered ahead of schedule thanks to the dedication of our teams and partners like Mitsubishi Power and SEPCOIII, propels us forward on our journey to a greener Bahrain, demonstrating that industrial growth and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand."As part of the agreement, Mitsubishi Power will continue supporting Alba through a Long-Term Service Agreement (LTSA), ensuring high availability, reliability, and performance of the gas turbine. This ensures that Alba can maintain uninterrupted and efficient power generation, critical for sustaining its aluminium production and supporting Bahrain's industrial growth.Mitsubishi Power is committed to advancing energy solutions for utility and industrial application aligned with decarbonization and economic sustainability goals. Through its innovative gas turbine technologies and digital analytics solutions, Mitsubishi Power supports energy-intensive industries across the MENA region in achieving greater efficiency, resilience, and carbon reduction. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Feb 19, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today made its first global release of specifications for Honda Next Generation Fuel Cell Module and Honda Fuel Cell Power Generator at H2 & FC EXPO – the 23rd Int’l Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Expo – which started today at Tokyo Big Sight, Japan.Mass production of the Honda Next Generation Fuel Cell Module is scheduled to begin in 2027 (fiscal year ending March 31, 2028), with mass production of the Honda Fuel Cell Power Generator scheduled to begin in 2026. Honda Next Generation Fuel Cell ModuleThe Honda Next Generation Fuel Cell Module unveiled today is being independently developed by Honda as a successor to the current model Honda jointly developed with General Motors (GM).In addition to achieving a rated output of 150 kW, the Honda Next Generation Fuel Cell Module will feature half of the production cost and more than double the durability compared to the current model. Moreover, the module was downsized by increasing the volumetric power density(1) by more than three times, which increased the flexibility of installation layouts.By further expanding domains for application of the system and sales regions of this next-generation fuel cell module, Honda is striving to make a greater contribution to the realization of a sustainable, energy-oriented society. - CLARITY FUEL CELL equipped model:First-generation Honda FC module introduced in 2016; production discontinued in 2019.- CR-V equipped model:Current FC module codeveloped with GM and installed in CR-V e:FCEV in 2024. Honda Fuel Cell Power GeneratorThe Honda Fuel Cell Power Generator, scheduled for mass production in 2026, is a stationary power storage system capable of supplying hydrogen-derived, clean electricity to large facilities such as factories and offices. It utilizes the fuel cell also being used for the Honda CR-V e:FCEV fuel cell vehicle.The compact size of the Honda Fuel Cell Power Generator realized through the optimization of the design of its cooling system and internal layout enables flexible fit to the installation environments of each customer. Moreover, to promptly provide highly reliable backup power, the Honda Fuel Cell Power Generator is being developed to feature high responsiveness that enables it to begin supplying power within 10 seconds of startup.In addition to supplying power that accommodates the diverse power needs of customers through this product, Honda will contribute to the decarbonization initiatives of customers by offering comprehensive support ranging from product installation to after-sales service. (1) Volumetric Power Density: The amount of electrical energy that can be output per unit volume.About Honda hydrogen businessHonda was one of the first companies to focus on the potential of hydrogen toward the realization of a carbon-neutral society and has been conducting research and development of hydrogen technologies and FCEVs for more than 30 years.Working toward the realization of carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities Honda is involved in by 2050, Honda has identified four core domains for its fuel cell system application – fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), commercial vehicles, stationary power generator and construction machinery – and has been working to further expand opportunities for its hydrogen business to grow it as one of the new core businesses of Honda. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Feb 19, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Orchestrating Future Fund(1), an ecosystem-based corporate venture capital (CVC) fund, has invested in Aetion, Inc.(2), a U.S.-based provider of healthcare platforms. In addition, NEC and Aetion have started discussions for collaboration in the Real World Data (RWD)(3) / Real World Evidence (RWE)(4) business in drug development.In recent years, the medical field has witnessed a growing demand for the utilization of RWD/RWE to evaluate the safety and efficacy of drug development and to enhance the efficiency of the development and approval processes. However, several challenges persist in leveraging RWD/RWE, including data collection, standardization of data quality and analytical methods, and regulatory compliance.Aetion is a global leader in RWE platforms. The Aetion Evidence Platform® (AEP) is utilized by numerous organizations worldwide, including pharmaceutical companies, regulatory authorities, insurers, and healthcare institutions. AEP enables the standardization, quality assurance, and transparency of RWD, facilitating rapid and accurate analysis from a wide variety of data sources. Additionally, it transforms RWD using scientifically validated methods to generate reliable RWE. This approach addresses the challenges associated with RWD/RWE utilization and supports effective decision-making.NEC aims to address medical and healthcare challenges and create new value through its healthcare and life sciences business, including electronic medical records. Aetion has a highly reliable and proven track record in evaluating the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals. Synergies between the two companies have the potential to improve the efficiency of the drug development process and the creation of new treatment methods. This investment enables NEC and Aetion to further explore business collaboration in the RWD/RWE business in drug development."The NEC Orchestrating Future Fund invests in startups that are pioneering new markets with cutting-edge technologies and innovative business models," said Shigeki Wada, Corporate Senior Vice President of NEC Corporation. "Aetion's RWD/RWE-based medical decision support can contribute to the establishment of next-generation healthcare and is in line with our vision of contributing to personalized medicine. Together with Aetion, we will accelerate our efforts to create new social value.""As Aetion redefines how healthcare organizations make critical decisions with enterprise-grade technology, this investment from NEC Orchestrating Future Fund demonstrates their vision of how our software can help decision-makers in Japan and beyond," said Jeremy Rassen, ScD, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of Aetion. "We look forward to continued collaboration with NEC, innovating together to meet the global demand for decision-grade solutions that drive measurable change across the healthcare landscape."(1) Ecosystem-type Corporate Venture Capital in which multiple companies that share NEC's vision of the future of society, "NEC 2030VISION," participate.(2) Head office: New York, U.S.A. Co-founder and CEO: Jeremy Rassen https://aetion.com/(3) Real World Data (RWD) refers to various types of data related to human health and healthcare delivery obtained in everyday life, such as electronic medical records, prescriptions, claims data, and data from wearable devices.(4) Real World Evidence (RWE) is the scientific evidence about the usage patterns, benefits, and risks of a medical product derived from analysis of RWD.About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Feb 18, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Osaka Gas Co., Ltd. (Osaka Gas) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) today initiated operations for CO2NNEX®, the city gas industry's first digital platform to enhance visibility in carbon dioxide (CO2) trading and facilitate the transfer and management of Clean Gas Certificates, which certify the environmental value of e-methane,(1) allowing for use of the system during Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan (the Expo).(2)The CO2NNEX platform will be used during the Expo to support Osaka Gas' e-methane production and utilization demonstration(3) by accumulating data and providing visibility on the amount of e-methane biogas produced, as well as its raw materials (CO2 and H2), and CO2 emissions throughout the life cycle. It will also be utilized to manage utilization of the clean gas certificates generated by the demonstration. The clean gas certificates for the e-methane and biogas produced by Toho Gas Co., Ltd., Nihon Gas Co., Ltd., and Hokuriku Gas Co., Ltd. will be transferred through the platform and used for the natural gas supplied by Osaka Gas to the Expo site, contributing to the carbon neutrality of the Expo. The Gas Pavilion and Expo demonstration area presented by the Japan Gas Association will also feature videos for visitors introducing the forward-thinking initiatives by the city gas industry to systematize the transfer of clean gas certificates. (Fig. 1)Fig. 1: System for transfer of Clean Gas Certificate through CO2NNEXTo ensure efficient operation of the platform, Osaka Gas and MHI solicited advice from the Japan Gas Association, and held discussions with Toho Gas, Nihon Gas, and Hokuriku Gas, the companies that will use CO2NNEX for exchange of clean gas certificates for the Expo, as well as with INPEX CORPORATION, which acted as advisor during the proof of concept stage for the system.(4) The aim of these measures was to enhance user convenience and reliability in the transfer and management of clean gas certificates.Along with the reuse of CO2 (CCU(5)), such as for e-methane and recycled carbon fuels (e-fuel, SAF, Green LPG), practical applications for CO2 storage (CCS(6)) technology are expected to emerge in the future. Osaka Gas and MHI are also considering implementing the CO2NNEX digital platform for CO2distribution management in the CCS demonstration project currently being developed, with the aim of utilizing it as a management system for the establishment of the CO2 value chain. (Fig. 2)Fig. 2: Conceptual image of the CO2 value chainPrivate sector utilization of Clean Gas Certificates came into effect on April 1, 2024, and efforts to convert the environmental value of e-methane and biogas produced in Japan into Clean Gas Certificates are gaining momentum. Since the volume of transactions, such as those for the Expo demonstration, is expected to increase further in the future, a system for the transfer and management of clean gas certificates is required. Osaka Gas and MHI will utilize the results from CO2NNEX at the Expo to support the practical application of e-methane technology across society, and contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral world by 2030.(1) Environmental value: Since CO2 emitted into the atmosphere (or CO2 in the atmosphere) is captured and carbon recycled as raw material for e-methane, even when e-methane is used (burned), the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere does not increase in real terms, so CO2 emissions are effectively zero.(2) For details on the implementation of CO2NNEX at Expo 2025, see the following press release: "Osaka Gas and MHI to Implement the CO2NNEX® Digital Platform for Managing and Transferring the Environmental Value of e-Methane at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan" (September 25, 2024)www.osakagas.co.jp/en/whatsnew/__icsFiles/afieldfile/2024/09/24/240925.pdfwww.mhi.com/news/24092501.html (3) Osaka Gas' e-methane production and utilization demonstration is a project to build and demonstrate a hydrogen supply chain in urban areas based on methanation using hydrogen derived from renewable energy, and biogas derived from food waste. The project was selected by Japan's Ministry of the Environment for its "Demonstration Project to Build a Model for Lowering the Cost of Hydrogen Supply Using Existing Infrastructure."(4) CO2NNEX Proof of Concept is a project conducted in 2022 that demonstrated the feasibility of a system to enable the transfer and management of clean gas certificates from the standpoint of CO2 emissions in the e-methane supply chain.(5) CCU: Carbon dioxide Capture and Utilization(6) CCS: Carbon dioxide Capture and Storage(7) H-to-A industry: Hard-to-abate industryaAbout Osaka GasOsaka Gas aims to achieve net-zero emissions across its group under the Carbon Neutral Vision the company announced in 2021. Osaka Gas is developing technologies and services that drive the decarbonization of society. As a company serving customers for their life and business advancement, Osaka Gas is actively addressing climate change and other social challenges.About MHIMHI Group is actively involved in programs targeting the realization of a carbon neutral society. Building a CO2 ecosystem is central to its energy transition initiatives. As a global leader in CCUS, the company aims to accelerate this ecosystem development by seeking widespread adoption of related hardware as well as the CO2NNEX® digital platform.For more information, see the CO2NNEX website.About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Feb 17, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing will continue its mission to make ever-better motorsports-bred cars and put smiles on the faces of fans across the globe by competing with two GR010 HYBRID race cars in the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship, starting on Friday 28 February in Qatar.A crew of World Champion drivers will use their skill and close cooperation with engineers, mechanics and team partners to drive the team forward following TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s goal of developing people and technology through motorsports.Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi and Nyck de Vries will compete together for a second year in the #7 GR010 HYBRID, while Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley and Ryo Hirakawa join forces for the fourth time, aiming for their third drivers’ title together.Eight races on four continents – including the 93rd Le Mans 24 Hours in June – feature eight manufacturers contesting the 18-strong Hypercar class, including Alpine, newcomers Aston Martin, BMW, Cadillac, Ferrari, Peugeot and Porsche. With the GR010 HYBRID, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing will challenge for its eighth manufacturers’ World Championship as well as its seventh drivers’ crown, and sixth Le Mans victory.The GR010 HYBRID broke new ground in endurance racing when it was unveiled as the first-ever WEC Hypercar in 2021. Since then, it has undergone various adjustments to enhance reliability and operability, which have combined with team and driver know-how to maintain a record-breaking run of title success.For 2025, the proven GR010 HYBRID package has undergone no significant changes and will enter its fifth season of competition as a tried and tested competitor. The only visible change to the 2025-specification car is the addition of new mandatory LED panels on the sidepod, which indicate position and pit stop timing to enhance the experience of fans at the track and at home.Qatar is the first destination on the 2025 calendar, for WEC’s traditional two-day Prologue pre-season test and the 10-hour Qatar 1812km race. In last year’s inaugural event, Nyck earned second on the grid, but a challenging race required a strong team effort to earn valuable points with fifth and eighth place finishes.Action at the 5.418km Lusail International Circuit begins with seven hours of testing each day on Friday 21 February and Saturday 22 February. Two 90-minute free practice sessions kick off the race week on Wednesday February 26, including one which ends after sunset. The starting grid will be determined in qualifying and Hyperpole on Thursday (5.40pm local, 3.40pm CET) while the race starts at 2pm (midday CET) on Friday 28 February.For more information, visit https://toyotagazooracing.com/wec/release/2025/rd01-preview/. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.