Category: JCN Newswire

TOKYO, Oct 11, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - National University Corporation OITA UNIVERSITY ("Oita University") and Hitachi High-Tech Corporation ("Hitachi High-Tech") today announced that we have started conducting research ("this research") into predicting and extendingthe life of electrocatalysts used in polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFC), utilizing Hitachi High-Tech’s technology that uses AI to perform image analysis. We will be giving a joint presentation on the contents of this research at The Chemical Society of Japan Autumn Event 14th CSJ Chemistry Festa 2024, which will be held at Tower Hall, Funabori (Tokyo) from October 22 to 25, 2024.Kinumoto Laboratory at the Faculty of Science and Technology of Oita University is involved in research initiatives using the Identical Location Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscope (IL-FE-SEM)*1 of Oita university's proprietary technology to figure out the degradation mechanism of PEFC electrocatalysts and develop robust PEFC.This research is part of the Green Technologies for Excellence (GteX)*2 project of the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST).Hitachi High-Tech develops, manufactures, and sells electron microscopes, so has a wealth of expertise in the analysis of observation images, also solves problems faced by customers using informatics technologies, Materials Informatics (MI) and Process Informatics (PI)*3. Hitachi High-Tech has drawn on these strengths and combined them with AI and SEM image analysis technologies to provide support for Oita University’s PEFC research and development.Including with this research, Oita University and Hitachi High-Tech aim to continue working to accelerate efforts to develop longer-lasting PEFC going forward and contribute to solving social issues such as by achieving carbon neutrality and a decarbonized society.BackgroundPEFC are a type of fuel cell that use polymer materials as the electrolyte*4 to generate electricity (energy) by causing chemical reactions between hydrogen and oxygen at two electrodes. Fuel cells of all kinds are increasingly used as a form of sustainable energy that can reduce CO2 emissions and, among those, PEFC are also used in everyday applications such as vehicle and household power sources. As the achievement of carbon neutrality becomes recognized as a key issue facing society, it is predicted that PEFC will become increasingly necessary. To that end, however, PEFC in their current state need to be higher durability, with higher output, and lower in cost. This research aims to shed light on the mechanism behind the degradation of electrocatalysts, which is the utmost important issue in prolonging PEFC life, by using AI technology to analyze FE-SEM observation images and make more efficient analysis based on quantitative data possible.Overview of this ResearchThis research used Oita University's IL-FE-SEM technology and Hitachi High-Tech's AI- powered image analysistechnology to study electrocatalyst durability and surface degradation through accelerated degradation tests in which a pulse voltage is repeatedly applied to the PEFC electrocatalysts.*5In order to figure out the deterioration mechanism, in which there is a reduction in the electrochemical surface area (ECSA)*6 of the electrocatalytic platinum particles, Oita University is using IL-FE-SEM technology to visually inspectand analyze the platinum particles in observation images. However, although it is possible to use IL-FE-SEM technology to acquire a large volume of observation images, this has its problems in that there is a tremendous workload involved in analyzing all of the observation images due to there being hundreds of platinum particles present in each individual image. To resolve this problem, Hitachi High-Tech provided AI-driven image analysis technology to streamline the task of image analysis. Specifically, AI image analysis was used to detect*7 platinum particles present in each test. After the particles were detected in the images that had been taken, changes in the status of the particles (their disappearance, aggregation, or formation) could be tracked and the particle count automatically determined.Going forward, the researchers will continue to work to improve particle detection accuracy and make advancements in figuring out the degradation mechanism of more efficient PEFC, as both Oita University and Hitachi High Tech will push ahead and continue to work together to develop long-lasting PEFC. They will also contribute to the cultivation ofdata scientists with a grounding in chemistry by working together with the students of Oita University on pushing this analysis forward.This research is being performed through technical collaboration with Hitachi Co., Ltd. (“Hitachi”), and the presentation at CSJ Chemistry Festa 2024 is planned to be performed jointly by Oita University, Hitachi High-Tech, and Hitachi.Related Information- CSJ Chemistry Festa 2024 https://festa.csj.jp/2024/index.html (Japanese only)- The date and time of the presentation on this research: Wednesday, October 23, 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM within the Festa plan, student poster presentations*8.- Presentation topic: “Analysis of Degradation of Pt/C Electrocatalysts for PEFC using Identical Location FE-SEM Observation and AI Image Analysis”(1) Identical Location Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscope (IL-FE-SEM): It refers to the observation of a fixed-point using FE-SEM and is a technology independently developed by Oita University. Observing a fixed-point can be used effectively in research tracking and figuring out changes in physical matter.(2) Green Technologies for Excellence (GteX): A project by JST for supporting R&D and personnel development at universities, National Research and Development Agencies and similar institutions with the aim of continually creating new technologies targeted toward achieving GX (green transformation).(3) Materials Informatics (MI) and Process Informatics (PI): Initiatives to make materials development more efficient by using informatics techniques that leverage statistical analysis and other such methodologies. MI is often used to predict material properties or for design purposes, while PI is often used to streamline the production process.(4) Electrolytes: A substance used to move ions between electrodes and facilitate an electrochemical reaction.(5) Durability testing using an accelerated degradation test (ADT). ADT rapidly evaluates fuel cell durability by applying a constant potential pulse to a sample. FE-SEM was used to image the same location on the catalyst surface to study the degradation in the cathode catalyst surface occurring over repeated tests.(6) Electrochemical surface area: It refers to the surface area over which the reaction occurs, and it serves as an important metric when evaluating the performanceof catalysts and electrode materials. The larger the electrochemical surface area, the higher the electrochemical reaction efficiency.(7) Detected particles using semantic segmentation. Semantic segmentation assigns labels to each and every pixel in an image, enabling a precise level of detection even across wide image areas.(8) Student poster presentations: A student poster session will be held with the objective of encouraging discussion between students and industry, academia, and government representatives.About Hitachi High-TechHitachi High-Tech, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is engaged in activities in a broad range of fields, including manufacture and sales of clinical analyzers, biotechnology products, radiation therapy systems, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, analytical instruments, and analysis equipment. Also, we provide high value-added solutions in industrial fields such as mobility, connected, environment and energy, etc. Through business based on our core Observation, Measurement and Analysis technologies, we will contribute to the realization of a sustainable society by solving social issues.The company's consolidated revenues for FY2023 were approx. JPY 670.4 billion. For further information, visit https://www.hitachi-hightech.com/global/en/About Oita UniversityOita University has a Faculty of Education, Faculty of Economics, Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Science andTechnology, and Faculty of Welfare and Health Science. The university's Basic Policy state that it strives to “foster people rich in creativity, social abilities, and humanity through education and research in the humanities, the social sciences, and the natural sciences. In addition, it will actively contribute to peace and development in the world. It will play an active role in promoting human welfare and creating new culture.” This initiative is being conducted at theFaculty of Science and Technology, where research and development targeted at achieving carbon neutrality is conducted, including research into fuel cells.Contact:Takumi SenbaMaterial Solution Dept., Supply Chain Resilience Div.,Supply Chain Platform Business Group, Hitachi High-Tech CorporationEmail : mi-info.aj.ml@hitachi-hightech.com/ Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Oct 11, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Security, Ltd., an NEC Group company, has been commissioned by Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications to conduct cybersecurity capacity building exercises for Pacific island countries. Exercises were first conducted in Fiji for seven days from October 2 to 10, 2024, with 29 cybersecurity practitioners from government agencies and critical infrastructure operators from 13 countries participating. Additional training is scheduled to take place in the United States territory of Guam in February 2025.In recent years, international cooperation is indispensable for ensuring the success of cybersecurity measures that are implemented across national borders. In order to reduce cybersecurity risks for the entire world, it is important to support the building of cybersecurity capabilities in developing countries, including the Indo-Pacific region, which occupies an important geographical position.Since the opening of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC)(1) in 2018, NEC has supported the project’s operations through initiatives that include the coordination of approximately 30 cyber exercises for ASEAN member countries. Utilizing this knowledge, instructors and tutors from NEC Security, a cybersecurity specialist, are providing training tailored to the current state and needs of cybersecurity in Pacific island countries. Specifically, after participants conduct more than one month of online pre-study, NEC Security’s program includes five days of incident response training in the event of a cyberattack, thereby contributing to the building of practical cybersecurity capabilities.SummaryDate, time and place: - 1st Session: October 2, 2024 ~ October 10, 2024, Fiji- 2nd Session: February 2025, Guam, USATarget Audience: - Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga, Nauru, Tuvalu, Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, Marshall Islands, Kiribati, Cook Islands- Cybersecurity practitioners serving government officials and critical infrastructure operatorsOrganizer: Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and CommunicationsContents of the event: - 1 month or more of online pre-study- Incident response training, review of pre-learning and desktop exercises- Cyber exercise using CYDER(2) (5 days hands-on)Going forward, NEC and NEC Security will continue to contribute to the improvement of cybersecurity capabilities by providing cyber defense exercises, products and services to government agencies and critical infrastructure companies internationally.Under the value-delivery model “NEC BluStellar”(3), NEC is transforming business models with cutting-edge technologies to help solve challenges for customers and society.(1) The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) was opened by Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications in September 2018 to promote the development of cybersecurity human resources for ASEAN member countries.(2) The Cyber Defense Exercise with Recurrence (CYDER) is a hands-on, practical cyber defense exercise conducted by Japan’s National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) for information system personnel from national administrative agencies, local governments, independent administrative agencies, and critical infrastructure operators.(3) NEC provides end-to-end services for digital transformation (DX) through the "NEC BluStellar" value-delivery model. NEC BluStellar transforms business models to address social and business challenges by applying diverse industry insights and world-leading technological expertise to the entire DX process, from customer strategy consultation through implementation.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 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Oct 10, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC), MC Retail Energy Co., Ltd. (MC Retail Energy), Kaluza Japan and Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) are pleased to announce our official commencement of an electric-vehicle (EV) smart-charging service leveraging connected technologies. The commercial viability of this business, which is the first of its kind in Japan1, was verified during a proof of concept (PoC2) that began in February 2024. The objectives of the PoC were to refine both the level of service provided and precision of the app used by its customers.Features of this ServiceThis service makes it possible for owners of MMC's Outlander PHEVs3 to directly control the charging of their vehicles from an advanced energy software platform provided by Kaluza Japan via MMC's connected systems4. It offers customers a new EV-charging experience, as it can optimize charging in line with electricity prices. The service will be made available through subscriptions to MC Retail Energy's EV smart-charging plans for households. Benefits to Customers:- Daily Smart ChargingSimply by connecting their Outlander PHEVs to their home charging stations and using the smartphone app to set the time they intend to next use their vehicles, customers can instruct the system to automatically control when their vehicles are charged. They do not need to purchase any special equipment or follow any complicated procedures.- Points System Based on Use of Controlled Charging (electricity discounts)Some of the cost savings realized by using this service to optimize charging via MC Retail Energy's smart-charging plans will be returned to the customer in the form of electricity-bill discounts.Benefits to Society:- Effective Use of Renewable Energies (renewables)Electricity prices fluctuate based on power generation and demand, and they tend to be lower when a lot of electricity is generated by renewables. As this system factors those prices into the timing of its controlled EV charging, it will make an indirect contribution to using renewables more effectively.- Efficient "Peak-hour" ShiftsBy controlling charging, this service will also help to shift the hours of peak electricity loads to facilitate more efficient operation of Japan's energy grid, which will lessen the burden on society when costs are incurred in upgrading or expanding that infrastructure.For more information, visit www.mitsubishicorp.com/jp/en/pr/archive/2024/html/0000054825.html.Inquiry Recipient:Mitsubishi CorporationTelephone:+81-3-3210-2171 Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Oct 10, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Lexus brings new enhancements to the LX and introduces the LX 700h, featuring the brand's newly developed hybrid system, which was announced on October 10th. A phased rollout across various regions is scheduled to begin in late 2024.Since its founding in 1989, Lexus has consistently upheld a spirit of innovation, continually striving to provide customers with new technologies and value. With the aim of achieving a carbon-neutral society and the desire to enrich automotive lifestyles with one's car, we will continue to provide a diverse range of options to meet the needs of customers around the world.The LX is a flagship SUV based on the concept of "effortless and refined driving on any road around the world." It combines driving performance that can handle any road in the world, while still providing the signature refined comfort of a Lexus. It is now beloved by customers in over 50 countries across the globe.At the same time, it was also the only model in the Lexus lineup that did not have an electrified vehicle option.Introducing the LX 700h, Lexus has developed a new parallel hybrid system that prioritizes preserving the "reliability," "durability," and "off-road performance" that the LX series has cultivated over generations, even amidst the shift to electrification. By utilizing motor torque to achieve the signature Lexus driving experience, annual CO2 emissions across all global vehicles will be significantly reduced, further improving environmental performance.Lexus has further refined its distinctive Lexus Driving Signature by enhancing the core fundamentals, including the engine model. The "engaging driving dialogue" that reacts instantly to driver inputs has been further refined while the vehicle has been upgraded with the latest Lexus Safety System + (LSS+) for enhanced safety and peace of mind.To further meet the diverse needs of our global customers, we have added the new OVERTRAIL series. With the early launch of the GX and NX OVERTRAIL models, we will continue to expand the lineup of the LEXUS OVERTRAIL PROJECT.Takami Yokoo, Lexus International Chief EngineerIn 2021, the LX underwent a full model change based on the concept of "effortless and refined driving on any road," earning widespread acclaim from customers worldwide, for which we are sincerely grateful. However, it posed a challenge within the Lexus lineup, as it remained the only model without an electrified option―despite our commitment to achieving a carbon-neutral society. For those of us who have been deeply involved with the LX over the years, electrifying it for use in demanding global environments seemed both an immense challenge and a long-held aspiration.During development, we were determined in our commitment not to compromise the reliability, durability, and off-road performance that has defined previous LX models, even with electrification. Our goal was to ensure safe, reliable operation, allowing customers to return home safely, while preserving the true Lexus driving experience. The solution we reached, as a unified development team, was the development of a new parallel hybrid system along with upgrades to the GA-F platform.Three years after the release of the gasoline and diesel models, we have further refined the Lexus Driving Signature, while enhancing both safety and comfort features. Our extensive ongoing driving flavor refinements have been fully integrated into the HEV models, elevating the "engaging driving dialogue" with the car. With updates to the electronic platform and the latest enhancements to LSS+, we have introduced improvements that make driving even more effortless and refined. We invite you to experience the new LX, thoughtfully crafted with the passion and dedication of our development team, as we embrace the next chapter of electrification with the HEV models.For more information, visit https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/lexus/41628808.html. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Special Exhibition: TV Anime Pokémon 1st anniversary event to be held!TOKYO, Oct 10, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The anime exhibition hub, Anime Tokyo Station, which leverages Japanese anime content loved by fans worldwide, has welcomed over 100,000 visitors from Japan and abroad since its opening in October last year.This facility serves as a launch point into the world of anime, where travelers visiting Tokyo from all over the world, specialists, children, and adults alike can gather and enjoy discovering both past masterpieces and the latest popular series.To commemorate its 1st anniversary, a special exhibition for the globally popular TV anime Pokémon will be held. Through displays featuring iconic scenes broadcasted on TV, visitors can relive Pokémon's vibrant history. Additionally, there will be an interactive corner where the two protagonists from "Liko and Roy Channel" come to life and react to visitors.Furthermore, at the end of October, the facility will host a "1st Anniversary Event" featuring the popular voice actors Miina Tominaga and Ryūsei Nakao.Please visit Anime Tokyo Station and indulge yourself in the allure of anime.Symbolic artistic installation on the 1st floor of AnimeInquiries regarding this press releasePublic Relations Office of "Anime Tokyo Station" (Kyodo PR)Contact person: Miri YasudaE-mail: animetokyo-pr@kyodo-pr.co.jp TV Anime Pokémon Special Exhibition- Exhibition OverviewThe new series of the currently airing TV anime Pokémon features a dual protagonist format, centering on a young girl, Liko, and a young boy, Roy, and began airing in April 2023. On Friday, October 11th, a new chapter, "Rayquaza Rising," will commence. This special exhibition will present the world of the TV anime Pokémon and trace the journey of Liko and Roy’s adventures thus far.- Main Exhibition Contents・ ExhibitsOriginal drawings of iconic scenes, panels of the main characters and Pokémon, Liko's pendant, and the ancient Poké Ball, among other items.・ Photo SpotsPhoto spots where visitors can take pictures with characters and Pokémon, including face cutout panels.・ "Liko and Roy Channel" Experience CornerAn interactive experience corner where Liko and Roy react to visitors.- Exhibition PeriodFrom October 26 (Sat), 2024, to February 2 (Sun), 20251st Anniversary Event(1) Date & Time: October 31 (Thu), 2024, 5:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m. (tentative)(2) Venue: Anime Tokyo Station, 1st Floor (Tokyu Building East Building No. 5, 2-25-5 Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima Ward)(3) Panels:Miina Tominaga (voice actor)Ryūsei Nakao (voice actor)(4) Overview:Talk show and special segments by the panels, congratulatory messages from the voice actors, etc.(5) Participant Application Overview:- Number of participants: 50 (by lottery)- Application period: From October 4 (Fri), 2024, to October 20 (Sun), 2024- Application method: Please apply via the dedicated application form.Please refer to the official Anime Tokyo Station website for more details and applications.*Panels and content are subject to change without notice. Thank you for your understanding. Overview of the Facility- Name: Anime Tokyo Station (abbreviation: Anime Tokyo)- Location: Tokyu Building East Building No.5, 1-2F above ground, B1F below ground (2-25-5, Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima Ward, Tokyo) *4-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station- Hours: 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (last admission by 6:45 p.m.)- Closed: Mondays *If Monday is a holiday, the museum will be open on Monday and closed the following day. Also closed on New Year holidays, temporary closures, etc. *Please check the official website before visiting.- Admission: Free- Official website: https://animetokyo.jp/en/Press release: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/20241010.pdf Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Oct 9, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda announced two electric personal commuter models in Indonesia today: the CUV e:, which uses two Honda Mobile Power Pack e: swappable batteries as its power source, and the ICON e:, which has a fixed battery(1).Honda announced CUV e: and ICON e: electric personal commuter modelsNew models introduced as 10th and 11th models according to Honda’s plan to announce 30 electric models to be launched globally by 2030Honda provides diverse choice according to customer needs, by announcing fixed-battery model in addition to Honda Mobile Power Pack e: compatible modelsHonda plans to expand a wide variety of electric motorcycles globally, with 2024 as the first year of electric globalizationHonda aims to achieve carbon neutrality in all of its products and corporate activities by 2050, and to realize carbon neutrality in all of its motorcycle products by the 2040s. To this end, Honda is taking initiatives to electrify motorcycles as the main pillar of its environmental strategy.Honda has positioned 2024 as the first year for its global expansion of electric motorcycles and will begin full-scale entry into the electric motorcycle market. Honda considers this time to 2026 as its market entry period, from 2026 to 2030 as its business expansion period, and from 2030 as its period of full-scale business expansion.The CUV e: and ICON e: correspond to the tenth and eleventh models, respectively, of the “30 electric models to be launched globally by 2030,” announced at the 2023 Briefing on Honda Electric Motorcycle Business held on November 29, 2023, toward which Honda is making steady progress.Honda plans to manufacture both the CUV e: and ICON e: in Indonesia, at locations appropriate to the needs of each region, and will expand from Indonesia to other regions globally. The enhancement of the electric commuter lineup will not only include models equipped with the Honda Mobile Power Pack e:, but also models with fixed batteries, increasing the variety of options to meet customer needs and making electric motorcycles more accessible.Honda will accelerate its efforts to develop a full lineup of electric motorcycles, including commuters, to meet the needs of more customers, and will continue to build a wide variety of electric motorcycles.CUV e:The CUV e: is a 110cc-equivalent model powered by two Honda Mobile Power Pack e: swappable batteries, and is the result of developing the SC e: Concept, which was exhibited as a world premiere at the JAPAN MOBILITY SHOW 2023 held at Tokyo Big Sight in 2023.CUV e:’s naming is derived from the CUV ES (Clean Urban Vehicle Electric Scooter), the first electric scooter lease-sold by Honda in 1994. The CUV e: was developed with the same city commuter concept as the CUV ES, as an electric scooter that realizes convenient mobility for many people in the cities, and with the “e:” that signifies it is a Honda electric vehicle, is positioned as a new era personal commuter.The design features the simple and sleek styling characteristic of EVs, and iconic front and rear combination lights that make it instantly recognizable as the CUV e:.Two Honda Mobile Power Pack e: interchangeable batteries are used as the CUV e:’s power source, and Honda’s in-house developed motor contributes to the improvement of the cruising range by optimizing the magnetic circuit and structure to achieve higher efficiency.The CUV e: is equipped with three riding modes (STANDARD, SPORT, and ECON) to suit various riding situations according to the customer’s preference, and a reverse mode is also available for turning around in tight space.Furthermore, a model equipped with Honda RoadSync Duo®(2),(3), Honda’s unique service that allows users to make calls and use navigation features by connecting the bike to a smartphone via Bluetooth®(4), is also available.ICON e:ICON e: is a new model based on the EM1 e:, equipped with Honda Mobile Power Pack e:, and is equivalent to a Class 1 moped in Japan. The main electric components including the battery have been changed, and its exterior has been redesigned for Indonesia.The ICON e:’s power source is a ternary lithium-ion battery, widely used in China, and can be recharged in two ways: on-board the ICON e: or as a stand-alone battery.A compact in-wheel motor is used for the rear wheel, and the power control unit efficiently controls the motor output to achieve a cruising range of more than 50 km(5) per charge, while also realizing clean and quiet riding.The ICON e: also features storage space under the seat for a helmet, as well as a luggage compartment for small items. In addition, a front inner rack and a USB Type-A socket convenient for charging mobile devices are standard equipment. The ICON e: includes features that are easy to use in everyday life.The headlight features a simple flush-surface design, creating an iconic look. High brightness LEDs contribute to a sense of security when riding at night.The ICON e:’s dashboard features full-digital meters on an inverted LCD display. In addition to the speedometer and clock, various information, such as the remaining battery level, is displayed on a simple layout, contributing to excellent legibility.(1) Battery can be recharged either mounted in, or removed from the ICON e:.(2) Honda RoadSync Duo requires smartphone app installation(3) For details on Honda RoadSync Duo®, please visit https://global.honda/en/roadsync-duo/(4) Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. in the U.S.(5) According to Honda tests Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Oct 9, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Power, a power solutions brand of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), has completed construction of the eighth and final M701JAC unit of a 5,300MW natural gas-fired power plant project in Thailand. The project, a joint venture between Gulf Energy Development Public Company Limited, one of Thailand's largest independent power producers (IPP), and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (Mitsui & Co.), a Japanese trading company, successfully commenced full commercial operations on October 1, 2024.GTCC Power Plant in RayongThe milestone marks the on-time completion of a multi-phase project awarded in 2018, featuring two gas turbine combined cycle (GTCC) plants in Chonburi and Rayong Provinces, key hubs for technological manufacturing and services, with a total installed capacity of 5,300 MW. Each plant is equipped with four M701JAC gas turbines, steam turbines, and heat recovery steam generators, ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply critical for Thailand's energy security and economic growth. On October 1, the first seven units installed in Chonburi and Rayong have collectively logged 100,000 actual operating hours (AOH), reinforcing their proven reliability.The project's first phase at the Chonburi power plant* marked a significant milestone as the site of Mitsubishi Power's inaugural J-Series Air-Cooled (JAC) gas turbine installation in Southeast Asia in 2021. The plant was fully completed in October 2022 and received the prestigious "Power Plant of the Year"' award at the Power and Energy Awards, presented during the annual Enlit Asia 2023 conference and exhibition. The units were delivered by Mitsubishi Power in close cooperation with its customers and construction partners, with constant application of learnings and improvements from previous units applied to enhance the quality of the project.At the completion ceremony, Boonchai Thirati, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Gulf Energy Development Public Company Limited said: "As a result of our collective efforts as a team, we successfully navigated challenges posed by COVID-19 and commenced the operation of all eight units on schedule. We thank all our partners for their excellent performance and look forward to continuing our partnership to deliver stable electricity to communities across Thailand."Takao Tsukui, Executive Vice President, Mitsubishi Power, Ltd. said: "Having overcome challenging circumstances, including COVID-19, we completed each of the remaining units every 6 months. Today, all units are fully operational on schedule - a testament to the unwavering collaboration of everyone involved, and a milestone we take immense pride in. As our first JAC gas turbine project in Southeast Asia, the GTCC plants in Chonburi and Rayong Provinces set the stage for contracting over 90 JAC gas turbines globally. We are deeply grateful for the trust placed in us and are committed to ensuring the continued success of this project through our long-term service agreement."Following the completion of the two GTCC power plants, Mitsubishi Power is committed to maintaining the facilities under the Long Term Service Agreement (LTSA). In conjunction with the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract, a 25-year power purchase agreement with the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) and a 25-year LTSA with Mitsubishi Power have been established to ensure the plant continues to meet Thailand's growing energy needs at peak performance throughout its lifespan.Mitsubishi Power has established a strong track record in large-scale gas turbine installations in Thailand. In 2011, the company received full-turnkey orders from a company backed by Gulf Energy Development to construct GTCC plants at Nong Saeng and U Thai, which began commercial operations in 2014 and 2015, respectively. In 2020, Mitsubishi Power secured an order from Hin Kong Power Company Limited, another Gulf Energy Development joint venture, for a GTCC plant comprising two M701JAC gas turbines.The M701JAC gas turbines deliver an exceptional 64% power generation efficiency, drastically reducing fuel costs and carbon emissions. These advanced gas turbines support the region in enhancing energy stability as nations work to decarbonize their energy mixes. To meet the growing energy demand in the region, Mitsubishi Power remains dedicated to advancing its gas turbine and GTCC technologies. Through strategic partnerships and continuous innovation, the company aims to support a stable and reliable energy transition that meets the future energy needs of the region.Commercial Operation Date Ceremony*The power plant in Chonburi Province is operated by Gulf SRC Company Limited.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 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Oct 9, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today held its “Honda 0 Tech Meeting 2024” and introduced some of the next-generation technologies to be applied to the Honda 0 Series, a completely new EV series Honda is planning to launch in the global market starting in 2026.The Honda 0 Series is being developed with new ideas Honda is generating from “zero” with a new approach to EV development – “Thin, Light, and Wise.” With this development approach, Honda will offer five core values through its EVs.1) Artistic design that resonates with people2) Automated Driving/Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (AD/ADAS) that ensures safety and peace of mind3) New value of EV as a “space” for people made possible by the internet of things (IoT) and connected technologies4) The joy of driving with the feeling of oneness with the vehicle5) Outstanding electricity efficiency performanceAt CES 2024 held in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. in January of this year, Honda unveiled two concept models of the Honda 0 Series, the Saloon and the Space-Hub. Honda also announced plans to launch a production model of the Saloon in 2026. This production model will be close to the Saloon concept model, and it will be positioned as the flagship model of the Honda 0 Series. Moreover, Honda has also announced plans to introduce a total of seven Honda 0 Series models globally by 2030, including small-, medium- and large-size models.Honda is planning to unveil a new Honda 0 Series model at CES 2025, scheduled to be held in January 2025. This new model will be the embodiment in product form of the technologies and electrification concept introduced during the Honda 0 Tech Meeting. Keynote by Chief Executive Officer Chairman of the Board of Directors Toshihiro MibeFor more information, visit https://global.honda/en/newsroom/news/2024/c241009eng.html. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Toyota City, Japan, Oct 9, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) has announced today that it will exhibit at Japan Mobility Show Bizweek 2024, to be held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba Prefecture from Tuesday, October 15 to Friday, October 18.Japan Mobility Show Bizweek 2024 is an event where the mobility industry and startups that will lead the next generation interact to co-create toward the shared goal of a sustainable future. At the event, Toyota will exhibit technology related to carbon neutrality from among its various sustainability initiatives.For Japan, a country with limited land and resources, "energy policy" is a significant challenge for both the nation and its industries. Given this situation, it is crucial for the mobility sector, which has a broad base and operates in the B to C market, to act as a pacesetter, fostering collaboration across the entire industry.In pursuit of achieving carbon neutrality through a multi-pathway approach, Toyota will promote co-creation with startups and other companies in the areas of 1) initiatives towards realizing a hydrogen society and 2) renewable energy management, both of which contribute to the stability of energy supply and the reduction of environmental impact. By fostering new partnerships and driving technological innovation, Toyota aims to strengthen its efforts to help create a sustainable future.The main exhibits will be as follows.1. Liquid hydrogen-powered GR CorollaToyota began racing with a hydrogen-powered Corolla running on gaseous hydrogen in 2021. Since 2023, it has been competing in endurance races in Japan and abroad using a liquid hydrogen-powered GR Corolla.The actual vehicle that has been competing in races will be on display at the JAMA joint exhibition booth, where Toyota will present its continued activities to refine cars and people through racing and to take on challenges and evolve together with partners in industry, government, and academia to achieve carbon neutrality.Liquid hydrogen-powered GR Corolla 2. Portable Hydrogen CartridgeToyota is working on research and development toward realizing a carbon-neutral society based on a multi-pathway approach with diverse viable energy options. Hydrogen is the ultimate clean energy that emits no CO2 during use, and CO2emissions can also be minimized during the production process when renewable energy sources such as wind and solar are used. Hydrogen can be used to generate electricity in fuel cell systems and can also be used as a combustion fuel.These portable hydrogen cartridges will be exhibited for the first time in Japan at this event. The technology Toyota has cultivated in the development of FCEVs is used to reduce the size and weight of hydrogen tanks, which were previously large and difficult to carry, to a size that can be carried by hand. They are designed to make hydrogen a familiar and safe energy source that can be used in a variety of everyday situations.Portable Hydrogen CartridgeA hydrogen-powered cooker developed together with Rinnai Corporation will also be exhibited as an example of hydrogen use, where hydrogen in portable cartridges is used for fuel cells to generate electricity or for cooking by combusting hydrogen gas in portable hydrogen cartridges.Through this exhibition, Toyota aims to find matches with the technologies and ideas of various companies and startups from a variety of perspectives, including both providing services and developing and selling devices using portable hydrogen cartridges. In doing so, Toyota will further strengthen its efforts to use portable hydrogen cartridges and help create a hydrogen society.3. Sweep Energy Storage SystemCreating a carbon-neutral society requires not only solving energy issues but also building a circular economy. Toyota emphasizes the circular economy in its car manufacturing as well, having long since worked on designs that minimize waste as well as the recycling and reuse of raw materials. In light of the rapid popularization of electrified vehicles in particular, including hybrid cars (HEVs), Toyota is carrying out initiatives such as developing resource-efficient and long-life batteries as well as reusing used batteries recovered from end-of-life electrified vehicles.The sweep energy storage system that will be exhibited at this event utilizes used batteries from electrified vehicles using Toyota's original sweep technology* for battery control. In this system, various types of used batteries with different degrees of deterioration can be reused to maximize each battery's remaining energy storage capacity. It will contribute to a stable supply of electricity and the spread of renewable energy in combination with solar, wind, and other renewable energy power generation systems, which tend to result in an unstable supply of electricity.Toyota has been conducting research and development on the sweep energy storage system together with JERA Corporation (JERA) since 2018. In 2022, the world's first large-capacity sweep energy storage system was installed at JERA's Yokkaichi Thermal Power Station for demonstration testing.Through the exhibition, Toyota aims to find matches with technologies and ideas that can improve the sweep energy storage system and allow more affordable and stable operation, such as traceability technology for used batteries and technology that can dramatically shorten and reduce battery replacement work. Toyota will contribute to carbon neutrality by building a circular economy to help create a sustainable future.*Technology to freely control the DC and AC charging and discharging of a series of batteries by rapidly switching them on and off in microseconds.Please visit the link below for more information on Japan Mobility Show Bizweek 2024. www.japan-mobility-show.com/en/ Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Oct 9, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu today announced that it is developing a system based on “Fujitsu Data Intelligence PaaS” (1) to realize a stable and efficient power supply for Kansai Transmission and Distribution, Inc. The system will be launched in March 2025.As society confronts intensifying natural disasters, a declining labor population, and rising fuel costs, energy providers are facing challenges such as securing a stable supply of power in both regular and emergency situations, promoting the use of renewable energy, facility maintenance, and cost reduction.This system, currently being developed by Fujitsu, will utilize “Fujitsu Data Intelligence PaaS” to collect, store, and visualize data from Kansai Transmission and Distribution and support a stable and efficient power supply, making it possible to quickly detect and investigate equipment errors. In addition to this system, Fujitsu is working to increase energy resilience by assessing power usage data to calculate the effect of avoiding planned power outages through the utilization of remote amperage control, as Kansai Transmission and Distribution moves toward the full-scale implementation of next-generation smart meters (2). By leveraging data, the system enables analysis to be carried out from various perspectives (i.e., staff, manager, senior executive, etc.) thereby improving operations and accelerating decision-making.With this initiative, Fujitsu will support business transformation aimed at solving management issues using data and AI. In addition, Fujitsu plans to provide the electric power industry with new capabilities through its “Fujitsu Data Intelligence PaaS”, such as power demand forecasting and reduced-labor machine inspections using “Fujitsu Kozuchi”, its AI service from Mid-October 2024.Fujitsu’s initiatives at Kansai Transmission and Distribution:Rapid error detection and increased efficiency through the visualization of power usage data and error informationIn Japan, it has become increasingly common for private residences to generate their own electricity through solar power thanks in part to municipal government subsidies. At the same time, the number of skilled technicians is steadily decreasing year by year due to population aging. There is a heightened demand for energy companies to become more efficient in terms of how they inspect their business operations, including the operational status of equipment and power usage/generation measurements.Kansai Transmission and Distribution used “Fujitsu Data Intelligence PaaS” to collect data on power usage (30-minute increments) from electricity smart meters and linked and visualized equipment and construction work data with error data. This has made it possible for the company to efficiently detect signs of equipment failure using this linked information, instead of the conventional practice of receiving error detection, checking the details against multiple systems, and then dispatching staff to the site if necessary. Furthermore, by applying the results of field assignments to the “Fujitsu Data Intelligence PaaS” and collecting data, seeing and analyzing error trends becomes possible, and error extraction accuracy can be continuously improved. This system is based on a pilot developed by Fujitsu in June 2024 and the company is planning to deploy it for operation by March 2025.Figure 1: Diagram of the current vs. ideal situation of error detection servicesFigure 2: Error detection dashboard screen (3)Verifying the effectiveness of the amperage control capabilities of next-generation smart metersFujitsu verified the effectiveness of the remote amperage control capabilities of next-generation smart meters to achieve a stable and efficient power supply. Remote amperage control is expected to play a role in plans to replace planned power outages that are currently employed as a last resort when the balance between the supply and demand of power is not expected to recover.According to estimates by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) (4), avoiding planned power outages is expected to result in an economic benefit of approximately 135-150 billion yen over a ten-year period. The scheme requires the cooperation of consumers as they will need to reduce their power consumption to within the upper limit set on the remote amperage control unit in order to receive a steady power supply. To achieve this, energy providers, including Kansai Transmission and Distribution, must assess the impact that this initiative will have on users and calculate the optimal control values based on the amount of power that their supply capabilities will fall short by.In this verification, Fujitsu utilized “Fujitsu Data Intelligence PaaS” and developed a prototype application able to visualize the effects of reducing energy consumption while varying the adoption rate of next-generation smart meters and the upper limit amperage control values. This application is based on electricity usage data (30-minute increments) obtained from approximately 13 million smart meters already in use. Through this, Fujitsu was able to confirm the impact of the controls on whole areas at specific times of day more effectively, and ascertain specific time blocks where consumers will need to reduce their energy consumption and the impact of reductions. Securing data on actual seasonal patterns of electricity usage allowed for the targeted use of amperage control units which has the potential to reduce the impact of energy saving measures on the general public and clarify periods when other measures should be deployed, including those focused on companies and factories that use more electricity.Figure 3: Diagram of control values and suppression impactFigure 4: Remote amperage control simulation application screen(1) “Fujitsu Data Intelligence PaaS” :Fujitsu’s platform that is made up of three components, “Fujitsu Kozuchi”, Fujitsu’s AI service, “Fujitsu Track and Trust”, blockchain technology that enables the collection and traceability of data across companies and industries, and data infrastructure, such as “Palantir Foundry” and “Microsoft Azure”.(2) Next-generation smart meters :As the current electrical smart meters, which began to be used in 2014, start to reach the end of their operational lifespan, METI’s Agency for Natural Resources and Energy held a review committee for next-generation smart meter system from September 2020 to March 2022. In this review, experts and related parties in the industry studied the functions of the next-generation smart meters.(3) Applications built on “Palantir Foundry”. © Palantir Technologies Inc.(4) Estimates by METI: From the METI’s Agency for Natural Resources and Energy Review Committee’s summary of next-generation smart meter system review (published in May 2022).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 Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Oct 8, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. announced today that it has received approval for “URECE® Tablets” (dotinurad) in Thailand as a treatment for gout and hyperuricemia. This approval is the first time that the agent has been approved in China or the five ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) member states where Eisai holds licenses to develop and distribute the agent.“URECE Tablets” are a new therapeutic medicine for gout and hyperuricemia discovered by FUJI YAKUHIN. It suppresses uric acid reabsorption and lowers blood uric acid levels by selectively inhibiting the urate transporter (URAT1) related to reabsorption of uric acid in the kidney. Eisai concluded a license agreement with FUJI YAKUHIN in February 2020 for China and in August 2021 for five ASEAN member states: Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Thailand, granting exclusive development and distribution rights in these countries.Hyperuricemia is known to be associated with various diseases, including those of the urinary system, endocrine system, metabolic system, and cardio-cerebrovascular system, as well as gout. Furthermore, the prevalence of hyperuricemia in Thailand is estimated to be as high as 10.6%.(1) It is expected that the number of patients will further increase in the near future due to changes in lifestyle and dietary preferences in accordance with socioeconomic development.Eisai is committed to providing new treatment options for gout and hyperuricemia in China and the applicable ASEAN member states, and will further contribute to improving the quality of life (QOL) of patients.About “URECE® Tablets” (Dotinurad)URECE Tablets are a therapeutic medicine for gout and hyperuricemia discovered by FUJI YAKUHIN. URECE Tablets selectively inhibit URAT1, one of the uric acid transporters, thus preventing reabsorption of uric acid by the kidneys and promoting uric acid excretion in the urine. In addition, it has a small effect on other transporters affecting uric acid secretion, so it reduces serum uric acid levels at lower doses. URECE Tablets are expected to have a low risk of side effects and drug interaction.In Japan, FUJI YAKUHIN obtained manufacturing and marketing approval for dotinurad in January 2020 and launched it in May 2020.(1) Lohsoonthorn, V. et al. Relationship with Metabolic Syndrome in Thai Adults Receiving Annual Health Exams Archives of Medical Research 37, p 883-889 (2006). www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0188440906001482?via%3DihubMedia Inquiries:Eisai Co., Ltd.Public Relations DepartmentTEL: +81-(0)3-3817-5120 Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO and MONTREAL, Oct 8, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - JCB International Co., Ltd. ("JCB"), Japan's only international payment brand, today announced that it has expanded its global partnership with Nuvei Corporation (“Nuvei” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: NVEI) (TSX: NVEI), the Canadian fintech company, to include Singapore and Hong Kong. This expansion builds upon Nuvei's existing relationship with JCB in Europe, further strengthening Nuvei's position in the rapidly growing Asia-Pacific (APAC) eCommerce market.Through this enhanced partnership, Nuvei now offers JCB acceptance to its global merchant ecosystem, enabling JCB's community of more than 158 million cardmembers to pay directly to online businesses integrated with Nuvei. This development is particularly significant for Nuvei's customers in the APAC region, including leading eCommerce brands such as Charles & Keith[1].Philip Fayer, Nuvei's Chair and CEO, commented on the announcement: "Extending our partnership with JCB to Singapore and Hong Kong enhances our service offering for businesses in strategic APAC markets and demonstrates our commitment to providing comprehensive payment solutions that drive growth for our clients globally."The expansion of the JCB partnership aligns with Nuvei's ongoing strategic investments in the APAC region. Nuvei is a fully licensed direct local acquirer in Singapore and Hong Kong, and recently obtained a Major Payment Institution (MPI) license in Singapore[2].Nuvei's modular payments platform enables clients to securely connect with customers in over 200 markets worldwide through a single integration, accepting 716 alternative payment methods and offering acquiring in over 50 markets. This extensive reach and flexibility are particularly valuable in the context of the rapidly expanding eCommerce markets in Singapore and Hong Kong.Singapore’s eCommerce market is predicted to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of nearly 10%, with gross merchandise value expected to reach US$23.5 billion by 2027[3]. Hong Kong's eCommerce market is projected to grow at a similar CAGR of nearly 9%, with revenues expected to exceed US$7 billion by 2029[4].Hiroko Michishita, Managing Director, JCB International Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., said, “Between 2021 and 2022, JCB has almost doubled the volume of ecommerce transactions in Singapore. While East Asia is our traditional stronghold, we have seen substantial growth in our ASEAN card base of 132% from 2018 to 2023. Nuvei’s latest expansion into Singapore and Hong Kong complements JCB’s long-term growth strategy. We are confident that Nuvei’s presence in Asia will enable both companies to work closer together and quickly achieve substantial sales volumes.”About Nuvei Nuvei (Nasdaq: NVEI) (TSX: NVEI) is the Canadian fintech company accelerating the business of clients around the world. Nuvei’s modular, flexible and scalable technology allows leading companies to accept next-gen payments, offer all payout options and benefit from card issuing, banking, risk and fraud management services. Connecting businesses to their customers in more than 200 markets, with local acquiring in 50 markets, 150 currencies and 716 alternative payment methods, Nuvei provides the technology and insights for customers and partners to succeed locally and globally with one integration.For more information, visit www.nuvei.comNVEI-IRContact: Public Relationsalex.hammond@nuvei.comInvestor RelationsIR@nuvei.comAbout JCBJCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 49 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 158 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/ContactKosuke OchiaiCorporate CommunicationsTel: +81-3-5778-8353Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp[1] https://investors.nuvei.com/news-releases/news-release-details/charles-keith-selects-nuvei-boost-international-expansion[2] https://www.nuvei.com/posts/nuvei-secures-mpi-license-in-singapore-to-accelerate-apac-expansion[3] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/singapore-ecommerce-market-databook-2023-171900419.html[4] https://www.statista.com/outlook/emo/ecommerce/hong-kong Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Oct 7, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - JCB Co., Ltd., Japan’s only international payment brand, announced that it enabled Google Pay for its customers on September 6, 2024. Android™ smartphone users can now use Google Pay in stores where JCB Contactless is accepted, by adding their credit/debit cards issued by the JCB Group in Japan to Google Pay. To use Google Pay, you will need to download the Google Wallet app and add your JCB Card.JCB plans to extend this support to other JCB brand card issuers both in Japan and other markets.Google Pay is a contactless mobile payment service for Android smartphones. By adding your credit card or other payment methods, you can make payments with your smartphone. With built-in authentication, transaction encryption, and fraud protection, Google Pay helps keep your money and personal information safe. For more information on Google Pay, visit here.JCB Contactless is a payment method that enables secure, simple and fast payments. You can use your JCB Contactless card or smartphone with your JCB Card being added to a mobile wallet, at various stores and for services, including Transit, by simply tapping it on the reader.*For information on which Android OS version supports Google Wallet, visit here.*Android, Google Pay and Google Wallet are trademarks of Google LLC.About JCBJCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 49 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 158 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/ContactKosuke OchiaiCorporate CommunicationsTel: +81-3-5778-8353Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

KAWASAKI, Japan, Oct 4, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu today announced that it will exhibit a technology showcase of its latest innovations at CEATEC 2024 (1), the annual cutting-edge IT & electronics exhibition at Makuhari Messe (Chiba Prefecture, Japan) from October 15 to October 18, 2024. Fujitsu’s booth will be located in Hall 7 of the venue.Fujitsu will reveal how the collaboration between humans and AI as a trusted assistant can create new value through an exploration of three major themes: “Sports: Performance enhancement with AI and data,” “Healthcare： Enhancing well-being with AI and data,” and “Culture: Passing on traditional techniques with AI and data.”Fujitsu positions AI as a trusted assistant and contributes to economic development and well-being improvement by promoting innovation through AI-centric technologies. At the event, Fujitsu will showcase how its Human Motion Analytics technology can be used to create a future where humans and AI complement each other and grow together. Through demonstrations in the three fields of sports, healthcare, and culture, visitors can experience how Fujitsu's technology can be used to digitize human movements and create new possibilities.Sports zone： Performance enhancement with AI and dataIn cooperation with Fujitsu Red Wave, a basketball team playing in the Women's Japan Basketball League, Fujitsu will showcase a basketball booth that uses AI to visualize visitors’ shooting forms and gives advice on how to improve their technique. Visitors will be able to compare their form with that of top players and see how their shooting form improves after receiving advice from AI based on actual Fujitsu Red Wave player data.Healthcare zone： Enhancing well-being with AI and dataIn this zone, Fujitsu will showcase a Pilates and yoga booth to introduce how AI can help to enhance visitors’ overall well-being. An AI will analyze visitors’ roll down movements, a Pilates exercise which is known as an indicator of balance capability. Visitors can then receive personalized guidance from a professional instructor to improve their movements and posture based on an analysis of their range of motion of the spine and speed of movement.Culture zone： Passing on traditional techniques with AI and dataIn cooperation with the Nohgaku Performers’ Association, Fujitsu will introduce a booth where visitors can experience Noh, a traditional Japanese theater art form. Here, Fujitsu leverages AI to visualize visitors’ movements and positions and compare them to those of Noh actors. Visitors can then receive detailed advice on the refined expressive techniques of Noh theater from Noh artist Yoshimasa Kanze.In addition to the demonstrations in the three fields, Fujitsu will demonstrate how Human Motion Analytics can be used in various areas.Period:October 15, 2024 (Tuesday) - October 18, 2024 (Friday)Premium TimeOctober 15 (Tuesday) 10:00AM - 12:00PM JST *Premium Time is open only to invited guests and press.General AdmissionOctober 15 (Tuesday) 12:00 - 5:00PM JSTOctober 16 (Wednesday) - October 18 (Friday) 10:00AM - 5:00PM JSTVenue:Makuhari Messe (2-1 Nakase, Mihama-ku, Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture)Fujitsu booth: Hall 7About Fujitsu's AI VisionFujitsu positions AI, including generative AI, as a trusted assistant, and offers systemized AI services via its AI platform Fujitsu Kozuchi in seven areas, leveraging it experience from over 7,000 use cases and more than 30 years of research. Fujitsu incorporates AI into various offerings in Fujitsu Uvance, Fujitsu’s business model to support the solution of societal issues across industries, with the aim of contributing to the expansion of customers’ business productivity and creativity.About Human Motion AnalyticsHuman Motion Analytics technology, used in the demonstration at this event, is a data analysis platform that converts human movements into data using AI technology delivered via Fujitsu Kozuchi. The technology achieves highly accurate analysis with a unique algorithm that significantly reduces estimation errors, even for complex movements, and uses the world's most advanced high-precision skeletal analysis technique originally developed for AI scoring in gymnastics, and which is officially adopted by the International Gymnastics Federation. It aims to create new added value based on human movements in various fields including sports, entertainment, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing.(1) CEATEC 2024 :Held with the theme of “Aiming to realize Society 5.0.” Society 5.0 is a vision that balances economic development and the resolution of social issues to unite people, technologies, and information from all industries and businesses to create a future through ‘co-creation.’” This year marks the 25th anniversary of the comprehensive exhibition of digital innovation.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 Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Japan, and SANTA CLARA, Calif., Oct 3, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota; NYSE: TM) and Joby Aviation, Inc. (Joby; NYSE: JOBY), a company developing electric air taxis for commercial passenger service, today announced that Toyota will invest an additional $500 million to support the certification and commercial production of Joby's electric air taxi, with the aim of realizing the two companies' shared vision of air mobility.The investment, which will be made in two equal tranches, is subject to standard regulatory approvals and certain other conditions, finalization of collaborative and commercial agreements and, with respect to the second tranche, the finalization of terms related to a strategic alliance focused on commercial manufacturing and certain other conditions. The investment, which will bring Toyota Motor Corporation's total investment in Joby to $894 million, will be made in the form of cash for common stock, with the first tranche targeted to close later this year and the second in 2025. Further details of the investment are available via the companies' regulatory filings with the SEC."Today's investment builds on nearly seven years of collaboration between our companies," said JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO, Joby Aviation. "The knowledge and support shared by Toyota has been instrumental in Joby's success and we look forward to deepening our relationship as we deliver on our shared vision for the future of air travel."Joby continues to make important progress towards commercialization, recently rolling its third aircraft off its pilot production line in Marina, CA, and breaking ground on an expanded facility in California that will more than double the Company's manufacturing footprint. In August 2024, it confirmed that the fourth of five stages of the type certification process is now more than one-third complete on the Joby side."With this additional investment, we are excited to see Joby certify their aircraft and shift to commercial production," said Tetsuo "Ted" Ogawa, who signed the agreement as the Operating Officer on behalf of Toyota Motor Corporation. "We share Joby's view that sustainable flight will be central to alleviating today's persistent mobility challenges."Toyota's additional investment reflects the continued aim of Toyota Motor Corporation's founding family, starting with Kiichiro Toyoda down to present-day Chairman Akio Toyoda, to realize the dream of air mobility for personal or daily travel as part of its transformation into a mobility company.Since 2019, in addition to monetary investments, Toyota has been investing time and human resources to share its knowledge of the Toyota Production System via process planning, manufacturing method development, and tooling design. Toyota engineers now work side-by-side with the Joby team in California, and, in 2023, the two companies signed a long-term agreement for Toyota to supply key powertrain and actuation components for the production of Joby's aircraft.Toyota's relationship with Joby began through an initial investment made by Toyota Ventures, the early-stage venture capital arm of Toyota that explores and identifies disruptive technologies and companies for investment opportunities and provides support for portfolio companies. Toyota Motor Corporation subsequently completed investments totaling $394 million.The shares to be sold in the investment have not been, and will not be, registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended ("Securities Act"), or any state or other applicable jurisdiction's securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an effective registration statement or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state or other jurisdictions' securities laws. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.About JobyJoby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE: JOBY) is a California-based transportation company developing an all-electric, vertical take-off and landing air taxi which it intends to operate as part of a fast, quiet, and convenient service in cities around the world. To learn more, visit www.jobyaviation.com.About ToyotaToyota (NYSE: TM), creator of the Prius hybrid and the Mirai fuel cell vehicle, is committed to building vehicles for the way people live through our Toyota and Lexus brands, and directly employs more than 63,000 people in North America (more than 49,000 in the U.S.).Over the past 65 years, Toyota has assembled nearly 47 million cars and trucks in North America at the company's 12 manufacturing plants. By 2025, the company's 13th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles.Through our more than 1,800 North American dealerships (nearly 1,500 in the U.S.), Toyota sold more than 2.6 million cars and trucks (more than 2.2 million in the U.S.) in 2023, of which more than one quarter were electrified vehicles (full battery, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell).For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com. Forward Looking StatementsThis press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including but not limited to, statements regarding the development and performance of Joby's aircraft, the growth of Joby's manufacturing capabilities, the regulatory outlook, progress and timing; planned operations; business plan, objectives, goals and market opportunity; the timing and general completion of the investment and the expected amount of proceeds; and the satisfaction of conditions to funding of the investment. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements may include words such as "anticipate", "estimate", "expect", "project", "plan", "intend", "believe", "may", "will", "should", "can have", "likely" and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events. All forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those implied by the forward-looking statements. Among those risks and uncertainties are market conditions, the satisfaction of the closing conditions related to each tranche of the investment and risks relating to Joby's business, including those described in periodic reports that Joby files from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Joby may not consummate the investment described in this press release and, if the investment is consummated, cannot provide any assurances regarding its ability to effectively apply the proceeds of the investment or the success of the expanded alliance among Joby and Toyota. The forward-looking statements included in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release, and Joby does not undertake to update the statements included in this press release for subsequent developments, except as may be required by law Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Hakone, Japan, Oct 3, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa is delighted to announce the debut of its latest wellness offering, the “YON-KA Phyto Sleep Ritual.” Launching on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at the hotel’s Spa IZUMI, this innovative program is designed to provide guests with a transformative spa experience rooted in the principles of naturopathy.With the rise of digital technology, work and access to information have become constant, leading to significant lifestyle changes. As a result, many people now struggle with sleep issues due to increased screen time on computers and smartphones. With growing awareness of the link between sleep and overall health, the focus has shifted toward the importance of nature, relaxation, and quality sleep as the ideal way to spend time off.To cater to the needs of wellness-minded travelers, Spa IZUMI has partnered with YON-KA, a global leader in phyto-aromatherapy, to offer guests an exclusive “YON-KA Phyto Sleep Ritual” experience. This 14-step treatment combines the healing power of botanical extracts, the soothing fragrance of essential oils, and the comforting warmth of a full-body wrap. Using a blend of Western and Eastern techniques, this ritual helps release tension and induces a deep state of relaxation, promoting an exceptional sleep experience.Located just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa offers a serene wellness retreat in one of Japan’s most renowned hot spring regions. Surrounded by nature, guests can enjoy a rejuvenating holiday experience that prioritizes relaxation and deep, restorative sleep.About Spa IZUMISpa IZUMI is a full-service spa facility offering eight spacious treatment rooms including two couple rooms. Additionally, it features a relaxation room, along with separate male and female onsen baths and changing rooms. The hot springs at Spa IZUMI are sourced from Ōwakudani and consist of slightly acidic sulfate springs, renowned for their skin-beautifying effects and resistance to cooling, which enhances the effectiveness of treatments when bathing before the session. At Spa IZUMI, YON-KA products have been incorporated into treatments since its opening, while the adjacent Gallery IZUMI provides a selection of YON-KA products available for purchase. Spa IZUMI was one of the winners of the “10 Best Hotel Spas” in Japan at the T+L Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024.Opening hoursSpa Treatment: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (last treatment finishes at 9:45 PM)Onsen: 6:00 AM – MidnightFor reservationsTEL: +81 460 82 2085EMAIL: izumispa.hakhr@hyatt.comHomepage: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/spas/Spa-Izumi-And-Onsen-Hakone/home* Spa IZUMI is by reservation only.* Non-staying visitors will be charged a facility fee of JPY 3,300 (inclusive of consumption tax) and onsen tax of JPY 50 per person.About YON-KA Phyto Sleep RitualExperience an original body and facial treatment from YON-KA, a renowned professional phyto-skincare brand from France. This luxurious treatment combines the benefits of botanical extracts and the soothing aroma of essential oils with the warmth of heated stones and oils. The 14-step treatment helps release physical and mental tension, guiding you into a state of deep relaxation and quality sleep. The ritual begins with a foot soak, followed by a back massage, the stimulation of nine energy points, and a facial treatment incorporating aventurine quartz. As the steps progress, you will be gently guided into a restful sleep as your skin is rejuvenated. This unique treatment offers a floating sensation that envelops your senses and leads to a one-of-a-kind sleep experience.Price: 90 min. / JPY 33,000 (inclusive of tax and subject to service charge)Offer Period: October 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025About Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and SpaHyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa is nestled in the foothills of the Gora mountains, renowned as one of Japan’s leading hot spring resorts, just an hour and a half from the center of Tokyo. With warm, welcoming service that feels like home, the hotel offers 80 spacious rooms starting at 56 square meters, including dog-friendly rooms. It features a cozy Living Room with an open log fireplace, Dining Room - Western Cuisine, Dining Room - Sushi, a private dining room, and the signature Spa IZUMI, along with spacious onsen baths. For more information, visit hakone.regency.hyatt.com or follow us @hyattregencyhakone on Facebook and Instagram.About Hyatt RegencyThe Hyatt Regency brand is a global collection of hotels and resorts found in more than 230 locations in over 40 countries around the world. The depth and breadth of this diverse portfolio, from expansive resorts to urban city centers, is a testament to the brand’s evolutionary spirit. For more than 50 years, the Hyatt Regency brand has championed fresh perspectives and enriching experiences, while its forward-thinking philosophy provides guests with inviting spaces that bring people together and foster a spirit of community. As a hospitality original, Hyatt Regency hotels and resorts are founded on openness—our colleagues consistently serve with open minds and open hearts to deliver unforgettable celebrations, effortless relaxation and notable culinary experiences alongside expert meetings and technology-enabled collaboration. The brand prides itself on an everlasting reputation for insightful care—one that welcomes all people across all countries and cultures, generation after generation. For more information, please visit hyatt.regency.com. Follow @HyattRegency on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and tag photos with #HyattRegency.CONTACT:Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and SpaMarketing CommunicationsHiroko Narahiroko.nara@hyatt.comPress Release: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/20241003.pdf Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Kawasaki, Japan and San Jose, California, Oct 3, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu Limited and Supermicro, Inc. (NASDAQ: SMCI), today announced they will collaborate to establish a long-term strategic engagement in technology and business, to develop and market a platform with Fujitsu’s future Arm-based “FUJITSU-MONAKA” processor that is designed for high-performance and energy efficiency and targeted for release in 2027. In addition, the two companies will also collaborate on developing liquid-cooled systems for HPC, Gen AI, and next-generation green data centers."Supermicro is excited to collaborate with Fujitsu to deliver state-of-the-art servers and solutions that are high performance, power efficient, and cost-optimized,” said Charles Liang, president and CEO of Supermicro. “These systems will be optimized to support a broad range of workloads in AI, HPC, cloud and edge environments. The two companies will focus on green IT designs with energy-saving architectures, such as liquid cooling rack scale PnP, to minimize technology’s environmental impact.”As the use of AI continues to grow, demand for data center capacity is rising faster than what can be supplied, and one of the biggest challenges is efficiently meeting growing power consumption requirements. Liquid cooling technology innovation has already made Supermicro an industry leader in shipping liquid cooling solutions today. A key focus will be bringing together Fujitsu and Supermicro expertise to further develop rack-scale liquid cooling solutions.Fujitsu and Supermicro will combine their technical capabilities and world-class global reach to offer a market-leading server portfolio. Supermicro's Building Block approach to server design enables a wide range of servers to be quickly built and certified for specific workloads across AI/HPC and general-purpose computing domains in deployments from cloud data centers to edge applications.In addition, by integrating Fujitsu's cutting-edge "FUJITSU-MONAKA" processor, the two companies will realize excellent performance and power efficiency while also pursuing high reliability, security, and ease of use with wide software compatibility, thereby empowering customers to implement green AI infrastructure. FUJITSU-MONAKA is a processor based on the Arm instruction set architecture, employing cutting-edge 2-nanometer technology and is set to be delivered in 2027. This new technology applied to the FUJITSU-MONAKA is based on results obtained from a project subsidized by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).The collaboration will also extend to Fsas Technologies Inc., a Fujitsu subsidiary, which will provide AI platform-based generative AI solutions globally that combine Supermicro’s GPU server products and implementation support services for data center operators and enterprises."The collaboration between Fujitsu and Supermicro is a groundbreaking initiative that will accelerate green computing innovation,” said Vivek Mahajan, Corporate Vice President, CTO, and CPO, Fujitsu. “By combining our technologies, we will enable high-performance, energy-efficient AI system infrastructure, driving the evolution of AI and Digital Transformation (DX).”As a provider of information and communication technology services and data center infrastructure, Fujitsu and Supermicro believe that promoting a green AI infrastructure that reduces power consumption and environmental impact in data centers is a top priority.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.About Super Micro Computer, Inc.Supermicro (NASDAQ: SMCI) is a global leader in Application-Optimized Total IT Solutions. Founded and operating in San Jose, California, Supermicro is committed to delivering first to market innovation for Enterprise, Cloud, AI, and 5G Telco/Edge IT Infrastructure. We are transforming into a Total IT Solutions provider with server, AI, storage, IoT, and switch systems, software, and services while delivering advanced high-volume motherboard, power, and chassis products. The products are designed and manufactured in-house (in the US, Taiwan, and the Netherlands), leveraging global operations for scale and efficiency and optimized to improve TCO and reduce environmental impact (Green Computing). The award-winning portfolio of Server Building Block Solutions® allows customers to optimize for their exact workload and application by selecting from a broad family of systems built from our flexible and reusable building blocks that support a comprehensive set of form factors, processors, memory, GPUs, storage, networking, power and cooling solutions (air-conditioned, free air cooling or liquid cooling).Press ContactsFujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiriesSuper Micro Computer, Inc.Greg KaufmanE-mail: PR@supermicro.com Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Eisai Co., Ltd. announced today that fully-fledged operations and business activities have begun at Eisai Pharmaceuticals Single Person Limited Liability Company (Eisai Saudi Arabia), a pharmaceutical sales subsidiary recently established in Riyadh in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Saudi Arabia). Eisai Saudi Arabia is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eisai’s European regional headquarters, Eisai Europe Ltd. (Location: U.K.).In the 1960s, Eisai started business in the Middle East marketing and selling Eisai products throughlocal distribution partners. In Saudi Arabia, Eisai began selling the peripheral neuropathy treatmentMethycobal® in 2009, and has since expanded the product pipeline with the launch of antiepileptic drug Fycompa® in 2018, anticancer drug Lenvima® in 2020, and others, through local distribution partners.Eisai Saudi Arabia was established in April 2024 in order to build an in-house sales system in Saudi Arabia, and is in the process of taking over commercial rights for the Eisai products in Saudi Arabia from local distribution partners. Eisai Saudi Arabia started sales and marketing activities for Methycobaland Fycompa in October 2024, and plans to expand activities to include Lenvima and anticancer agent Halaven® from April 2025. Moreover, an application for Alzheimer’s disease treatment lecanemab(generic name, global brand name: Leqembi®) has been submitted for review in Saudi Arabia.Saudi Arabia’s pharmaceutical market reached 11,342 million USD in 2023, making it the largest market in the Middle East, with an average growth rate of 7% in local currency terms from 2019 to 2023.1With the commencement of operations at Eisai Saudi Arabia, Eisai aims to utilize its own drug salessystem in Saudi Arabia, deliver innovative new drugs to more patients in the country as quickly aspossible, and contribute to improving the benefits of patients and their families.1. Outline of Eisai Saudi Arabia1) Company Name: Eisai Pharmaceuticals Single Person Limited Liability Company2) Location: Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia3) Scope of Business: Import and marketing of pharmaceutical products4) Charter Capital: 32,800,000 Saudi Riyal (approximately 1.25 billion JPY)5) Shareholder: Eisai Europe Ltd.6) Date of Establishment: April 2, 2024About the Pharmaceutical Market in Saudi ArabiaSaudi Arabia has a population of about 35 million and a GDP per capita of 118,216 Saudi riyals (approx. 31,445 USD). Saudi Arabia also has the largest pharmaceutical market in the Middle East, reaching 11,342 million USD in 2023 with an average growth rate of 7% in local currency terms from 2019 to 2023.(1)The healthcare market in Saudi Arabia consists of two major segments, the public sector and private sector.The public sector is fully funded by the government, and provides all public sector employees and their families, as well as Saudi Arabia citizens without health insurance, with access to medical care for free at government facilities.2 In the private sector, companies are required to offer health insurance for their employeesand expenses are dependent on the insurance policy.(2)In 2016, Saudi Arabia announced Vision 2030, an economic reform concept toward 2030 with the aim to shift Saudi Arabia to an economy that doesn’t rely on oil. In response to Vision 2030, the Ministry of Health of Saudi Arabia aims to build a more effective and comprehensive medical system, expanding health services and medical facilities and digitalization.(1) Created based on IQVIA World Review Analyst 2024, Data Period 2019-2023 (Copyright ©2024 IQVIA.). Reprinted with permission.(2) Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Medical and International Expansion Country Report: Saudi Arabia https://tinyurl.com/rwn8883c Media Inquiries:Public Relations DepartmentEisai Co., Ltd.+81-(0)3-3817-5120 Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Oct 1, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NTT Corporation, NTT EAST Corporation, NTT WEST Corporation and NEC Corporation have jointly devised a connection configuration to add optical fiber sensing functions to the IOWN All-Photonics Network (APN)(1). By applying this configuration to multiple routes of optical fiber for communication already laid underground (in the service area of NTT WEST in Osaka City), we have demonstrated that it is possible to grasp area-wide traffic trends using optical fiber sensing, and to visualize and analyze traffic conditions in real time.Optical fiber sensing in the IOWN APN enables low-cost, prompt, and flexible expansion of urban monitoring across a wide plane. In the future, we will promote R&D and co-creation activities toward the establishment of more advanced optical fiber sensing that will contribute to solving social and regional issues by implementing optical fiber sensing in society and exploring usage scenarios based on these results.1. BackgroundOptical fiber sensing, which enables the use of optical fiber for communication as a sensor, is expected to create new social value as demonstration tests and introduction of technologies for detecting construction vibration [1], supporting road snow removal decisions [2], and improving the efficiency of communication facility maintenance and operation progress [3]. The combination of IOWN and optical fiber sensing enables advanced data analysis by taking advantage of the high-speed transfer of large amounts of data by APN, and is thought to promote the use of sensing data. Furthermore, by using the optical path selection function of the APN-Gateway (APN-G) 2, which composes APN, a single optical fiber sensing device can measure multiple existing communication optical fibers connected to APN-G. Thus, optical fiber sensing in conjunction with the IOWN APN has the potential to realize low-cost, prompt and flexible urban monitoring across a wide plane (Figure 1), and these advantages are described in the IOWN Global Forum publication [4].With the aim of social implementation of optical fiber sensing using IOWNs, the four companies constructed a connection configuration that enables optical fiber sensing via APN-G, and conducted wide-area traffic flow monitoring on open roads. Several examples of traffic flow monitoring using optical fiber sensing have been reported [5], but this is the first case of wide area monitoring along multiple open roads.Figure 1: Wide-Area Optical Fiber Sensing Using IOWN2. Point of the technologyConstruction of a connection configuration that can add optical fiber sensing functions to the APN-GSince optical fiber sensing is measured using the round trip propagation of light, it is necessary to connect the optical fiber sensing instrument in a configuration that avoids devices (such as optical amplifiers) placed on the optical path of the APN that transmit light only in one direction. For this reason, we have devised and constructed a connection configuration between the APN-G and an optical fiber sensing device that uses a directional-coupler (optical circulator) to avoid a device (optical amplifier) that transmits light only in one direction of the APN-G and to extract the round trip sensing light (Figure 2).Utilizing optical fiber for communication installed in underground pipelinesSince the measurement is possible without any modification to the communication optical fiber cable or underground conduit, it is possible to obtain sensing data from a wide area by effectively utilizing existing facilities.Optimized vehicle speed analysis for open roadsUnlike long straight roads such as expressways, we conducted an analysis so that the speed and number of vehicles can be detected on short straight roads such as open roads with many intersections.Figure 2: Connection Configuration for Implementing Optical Fiber Sensing via IOWN APN3. Results of the joint experimentFive vibration sensing devices were connected to the APN-G to simultaneously measure surface vibration on five routes (Wiring totaling 37 km, covering 8 km in four directions) of existing optical fiber communication cables (laid underground on roads in Osaka City). By analyzing this traffic vibration with a vehicle speed analysis algorithm, we were able to visualize in real time the average vehicle speed of vehicles on open roads, the amount of traffic on the road and its changes over time in a 200 m mesh granularity (Figure 3). In addition, it was confirmed that the results of the analysis of vehicle speed and number of vehicles tended to agree with the correct data measured at five sites. (Demonstration period: December 2023 to January 2024: Data measurement; February to July 2024: Analysis and verification of usefulness).Figure 3: Wide-Area Monitoring Results of Traffic FlowTraffic flow meters on ordinary roads are installed at intervals of several kilometers only on major lines, requiring the permanent installation and operation of a huge number of sensors. However, optical fiber sensing linked to APN-G can flexibly monitor arbitrary points on optical fiber routes that extend to every corner of a city. It is expected to be used as a new social infrastructure, such as traffic congestion detection and prediction using traffic information collected from a wide area and application to urban traffic planning.The connection configuration of the optical fiber sensing device to the APN-G used in this study was adopted in the IOWN Global Forum publication [6].4. Role of each companyNTT: Devising and constructing a connection configuration to provide sensing functions to IOWN APNsNTT EAST: Calibration of vehicle speed and vehicle count positionNTT WEST: Selection of traffic vibration monitoring sites and selection and provision of facilities for demonstration testsNEC: Provision of APN-G and implementation of optical fiber vibration measurement and vehicle speed analysis5. OutlookBased on these achievements, we will continue developing the optical fiber sensing market using APNs collaborating with other companies, including discussions at the IOWN Global Forum. In addition, along with the nationwide expansion of APN, we aim to realize low-cost, wide-area urban monitoring that enables flexible sensing at arbitrary locations as long as it is connected with optical fiber, and does not require the installation and construction of permanent outdoor devices. In the future, we will promote R&D and co-creation activities aiming to solve social and regional issues through the social implementation of optical fiber sensing, with a perspective of various applications through urban monitoring, such as infrastructure monitoring, disaster prevention, and the realization of infrastructure design incorporating nature in urban planning.Reference(1) NTT EAST News Release, “NEC, Kashima, and NTT EAST succeeded in detecting construction vibration using the world's first optical fiber for communication," August 2023 https://www.ntt-east.co.jp/release/detail/20230824_01.html(2) NTT News Release, “World's first vibration sensing technology using telecommunication optical networks for making road snow removal decisions in heavy snowfall areas,” November 2023 https://group.ntt/en/newsrelease/2023/11/09/pdf/231109aa.pdf(3) NTT EAST News Release, “Start of the operation of communication facility maintenance using optical sensing technology toward the IOWN era," May 2022 https://www.ntt-east.co.jp/release/detail/20220516_01.html(4) IOWN Global Forum Functional Architectures “Fiber Sensing for Open APN 1.0" https://iowngf.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IOWN-GF-RD-FS_for_Open_APN-1.0.pdf(5) NEC News Release, " NEC provides AI-based traffic monitoring system with fiber-optic sensing technology for NEXCO CENTRAL," May 2022 www.nec.com/en/press/202205/global_20220524_01.html (6) IOWN Global Forum Functional Architectures “Fiber Sensing for Open APN 2.0" https://tinyurl.com/4ywj7bem About NTTNTT contributes to a sustainable society through the power of innovation. We are a leading global technology company providing services to consumers and businesses as a mobile operator, infrastructure, networks, applications, and consulting provider. Our offerings include digital business consulting, managed application services, workplace and cloud solutions, data center and edge computing, all supported by our deep global industry expertise. We are over $97B in revenue and 330,000 employees, with $3.6B in annual R&D investments. Our operations span across 80+ countries and regions, allowing us to serve clients in over 190 of them. We serve over 75% of Fortune Global 100 companies, thousands of other enterprise and government clients and millions of consumers.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 www.nec.com. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HIROSHIMA, Japan, Oct 1, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mazda Motor Corporation today released on the company's official website the Mazda Integrated Report 2024*1, which summarizes Mazda Group's value creation initiatives over the medium- and long-term from both financial and non-financial perspectives.The Integrated Report is a comprehensive compilation of Mazda's medium- and long-term management policies grounded in the concept of “creating the joy of living by delivering a joy of driving to customers that is matched to the times,” solutions and approaches to social challenges based on ESG*2 perspectives including carbon neutrality and electrification. The 2024 edition continues to the focus on our value creation process, increases the information relevant ESG disclosures and shows the progress Mazda has made in monozukuri (engineering and manufacturing), tsunagarizukuri (creating human connections) and hitozukuri (nurturing the development of individuals) initiatives in line with our Management Policy up to 2030. Furthermore, it has also included our approach to capital allocation and explanations of the way in which we have orientated initiatives to enhance corporate value over the medium- and long-term. With this, we have endeavored to communicate to our stakeholders in order to deepen their understanding about the value creation story for realizing our corporate philosophy.Mazda will continue to pursue the 'Joy of Driving' under its core Human Centric value, and aim to deliver 'Joy of Living' by creating moving experiences in customers' daily lives.Mazda Integrated Report 2024 ContentsCHAPTER 1 ABOUT MAZDA:CEO Message, History of Mazda's Growth, etc.CHAPTER 2 GROWTH STRATEGY:Value Creation Process, Management Policy up to 2030,CFO Message, etc.CHAPTER 3 VALUE CREATION INITIATIVES: Monozukuri (challenge of creating new value from the perspective of the customer’s experience), Tsunagarizukuri (creating human connections that grow our business) and Hitozukuri (organizational culture reform for fulfilling purpose)CHAPTER 4 GOVERNANCE:Corporate Governance, Conversation between Mazda’sOutside Directors, etc.CHAPTER 5 DATA SECTION:ESG Data, Company Profile, etc.Our Sustainability webpage provides more detailed descriptions of our ESG initiatives and actual data. Those of 2024 are scheduled to be posted on our website around the end of October.Mazda's Official WebsiteMazda Integrated Report https://www.mazda.com/en/investors/library/annual/Mazda Sustainability webpage https://www.mazda.com/en/sustainability/(1) The English version of the Mazda Integrated Report 2024 will be available in the end of October 2024.(2) ESG: Management and business activities that take into account Environment, Social, and Governance perspectives.For more information, visit www.mazda.com. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.