Category: JCN Newswire

TOKYO & JAKARTA, Aug 30, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - PT JCB International Indonesia, a subsidiary of JCB International Co., Ltd. (JCB) and PT Bank Permata Tbk (Permata) have launched the Permata JCB Ultimate Card, designed to provide the best experience for its users, especially travel and dining enthusiasts. This card targets the affluent segment looking to enjoy more benefits from credit card transactions.The Permata JCB Ultimate Card offers special deals through a Welcome Bonus Program of 20,000 airline miles and product benefits where every dining transaction of IDR 5,000 can be exchanged for 1 airline mile, subject to the terms and conditions. The launch of this credit card demonstrates PermataBank’s commitment to providing a card that is not just a payment tool, but also adds value to PermataBank customers according to their lifestyles.PermataBank’s Consumer Banking Director, Djumariah Tenteram, said, “The Permata JCB Ultimate Card is our first collaboration with JCB and is aimed at the affluent segment that wants the best experience, particularly in traveling and dining. This credit card launch also reflects PermataBank’s commitment to providing a payment tool that adds value to its customers according to their lifestyles. With this strategic collaboration, we are confident that the Permata JCB Ultimate Card will enhance and expand the services we provide to our loyal PermataBank customers, especially those in the affluent segment.”The affluent segment bridges the gap between the middle economic class and high-net-worth individuals. According to recent studies on the affluent segment in Southeast Asia, this segment in Indonesia accounts for 9% and contributes over 30% of household wealth. Most of them are aged between 20 and 49 years old. By 2030, their number is expected to triple significantly.“The partnership with PermataBank allows us to extend our reach to credit card users in Indonesia. PermataBank is a strategic partner for JCB due to its ability to reach the affluent segment. We believe that the convenience of the transactions offered, together with access to unique experiences and exclusive Japanese services, will add value to credit card users in Indonesia,” said Yoshiki Kaneko, President & CEO of JCB International Co., Ltd.The Permata JCB Ultimate Card offers a Welcome Bonus of 20,000 miles for PermataBank Priority customers who make transactions totaling IDR 25,000,000 or more per month for three consecutive months after the card is approved. In addition, cardholders earn 1 reward point equivalent to 1 KrisFlyer mile or 1 GarudaMiles for every dining transaction of IDR 5,000 or other retail transactions of IDR 10,000.Djumariah Tenteram, Director of Consumer Banking at PermataBank, added that the Permata JCB Ultimate Card is designed to provide exclusive opportunities for PermataBank's private and priority customers to enjoy various benefits. We hope that the Permata JCB Ultimate Card will add significant value and support the growth of PermataBank's credit card customers in the future.Permata JCB Ultimate Cardholders can also enjoy a variety of promotional programs from JCB, such as discounts of up to 25% at more than 100 Japanese restaurants in Indonesia that have partnered with JCB. Furthermore, cardholders have access to various promotions at renowned merchants in Japan, such as 10% cashback at Premium Outlets such as Gotemba and 8% cashback at Don Quijote from October 2024, as well as premium experiences such as medical check-ups or beauty treatments, and many other exciting promotions.JCB’s Ultimate services are also available to further complement the lifestyle needs of Permata JCB Ultimate Cardholders, including complimentary access to JCB Plaza Lounge, access to JCB Concierge Desk services, and 8x access to airport lounges with LoungeKey in countries and regions, such as Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, China, South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, Germany and the UK, in addition to 8x access to non-LoungeKey lounges in Japan and Hawaii.To enhance this special offer, the top 50 Priority Banking customers with the highest transaction value from September to December 2024, who have made retail transactions totaling IDR 160 million or more, will have the opportunity to receive free return Business Class tickets for Jakarta-Tokyo, subject to the terms and conditions.The premium design of the Permata JCB Ultimate Card exudes elegance and luxury with a combination of sakura and blue, the color that represents loyalty (from the term “true blue”). Cardholders will be pampered with a variety of tempting offers that will allow them to explore a world infused with the Japanese lifestyle, offered by JCB.ABOUT PERMATABANKPermataBank is one of the top 10 banks in Indonesia by assets in the banking industry. Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (Code: BNLI) with controlling shareholder Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited, PermataBank is at the forefront of digitalization with innovative products and services serving over 6.2 million customers in 61 cities across Indonesia. As of June 30, 2024, PermataBank has 212 branches & cash offices, Sharia branches, and mobile branches; 830 ATM locations and over 22,000 cardless cash withdrawal outlets in Indomaret, access to over 100,000 ATMs (VisaPlus, Visa Electron, MasterCard, Alto, ATM Bersama, and ATM Prima networks), and millions of other ATMs worldwide connected to Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus networks.PermataBank has received various service excellence awards in the categories of General Bank and Sharia Business Unit, such as the Banking Service Excellence Award 2024 from InfoBank magazine in collaboration with Market Research Indonesia, Silver awards from the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards 2024, The “Best Disclosure and Transparency” and Top 50 Emitters with the Largest Market Capitalization (Big Cap) - Best Corporate Governance from IICD CG Conference and Award 2023.As a pioneer of digital innovation in the Indonesian market, customers can experience comprehensive digital services such as the super app mobile banking, PermataMobile X with over 200 superior features, PermataNet internet banking, Permata e-Business, PermataQR Pay at over 300,000 merchants, point of sales at over 20,000 merchants, API banking with 200 types of APIs, call center services with interactive voice response and artificial intelligence voice recognition. Customers can also experience Modernized Branches in selected regions in Indonesia offering a simple, fast, and reliable experience at several branches.For more information about PermataBank, visit our website at http://www.permatabank.comContactMELINDA HOESAINDepartment Head, Corporate AffairsTEL: +62 21 523 7788Email: corporate.affairs@PermataBank.co.id CHICILIA WONGSODIREDJOID COMM for PermataBankTEL: +62 878 866 555 10Email: chicilia@idcomm.id 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.

TOKYO & HONG KONG, Aug 30, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - JCB International Co., Ltd., the international subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd. (“JCB”), Japan’s only international payment brand, and BINDO LABS LIMITED (“Bindo”), the parent company and developer of Wonder, a leading payments and fintech platform in Asia Pacific, announced the launch of the Wonder x JCB Metal Corporate Card on August 30, 2024.This is the first JCB Metal Card issued globally. In addition to its premium metallic feel and look, the Wonder x JCB Metal Corporate Card has various innovative and bespoke features, including:Fast Virtual Card Issuance: Our efficient card issuance service ensures that you can receive your new virtual card in as little as 7 minutes. The physical metal card is expected to arrive within 5 days.Global Acceptance: Cardholders can enjoy convenient payments at 49 million of JCB merchants worldwide.Beneficial Services: Cardholders can enjoy exclusive JCB benefits and offers, including perks related to business travel, dining, and entertainment. For more details, please visit here.Designed for Corporate Use: Ideal for company operations and business expenses, allowing company owners and employees to easily manage operational costs and business entertainment by settling credit card bills directly.Administrative Cost Savings: By using a corporate credit card for transactions, the company pays bills directly, eliminating the need for employees to report business expenses individually. This reduces the workload of the finance department and saves on administration costs. In addition, the company can view detailed transaction records through the Wonder App to consolidate business expenses.Superior Security: Advanced encryption technology is used to ensure the security of every transaction.Over the next 12 months, Bindo expects to increase the number of Wonder x JCB Metal Corporate Cardmembers by approaching thousands of its own customers via Wonder, an all-in-one digital payments and financial services platform, with scope for further expansion across different industries and verticals.Built on mutual trust, innovation and dedication, JCB and Bindo are both committed to continuing to drive financial innovation and improve financial access for merchants of all sizes and industries in Hong Kong and the wider Asia-Pacific region.Mr. Jason Ngan, the founder and CEO of Bindo, commented:"We are very happy to announce our collaboration with JCB on the Wonder x JCB Metal Card issuing. This partnership marks an exciting milestone for Wonder, as it aligns perfectly with our mission to enable all merchants, big or small, to pay and get paid effortlessly. By combining our cutting-edge technology with JCB’s extensive network and expertise, merchants can now create a JCB corporate card with just a click of a button and streamline its financial management, effectively uplifting access to financial services for the traditionally underserved segments such as small to medium enterprises. We are confident that this collaboration will bring unparalleled benefits and convenience to our customers, and we look forward to a successful partnership with JCB."Mr. Tomoya Ichino, Managing Director of JCB International (Asia) Ltd., added:"We are very pleased to launch the world's first metal JCB Card. Bindo has achieved the remarkable introduction of a seamless card payment experience for taxi rides in Hong Kong, sparking a wave of momentum and citywide excitement. Bindo's technological capabilities and transformative offerings have truly set them apart as an industry-leading company. JCB will continue to strive to offer services with a particular focus on Hong Kong and Japan for a customer satisfaction. Together with Bindo, a pioneer in the market combining innovative technology with creative thinking, we will bring value and convenience to JCB cardmembers in Hong Kong. We anticipate the launch of many more cards in the future as we work together to push the boundaries of payment technology."About BINDOBindo Labs is the parent company and developer of Wonder, a leading payments gateway and FinTech platform for merchants in Hong Kong and Asia Pacific. Before Wonder, Bindo Labs began its journey as the leading payment and software solutions provider to banks, financial institutions and merchants globally, with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia and Mainland China. Since inception, over 10,000 merchants globally have used Bindo’s software to process more than USD 10 billion.Today, Bindo Labs is disrupting digital payments with the launch of an innovative payments gateway and FinTech platform: Wonder. Wonder is Hong Kong’s first fully digital omni-channel payment gateway platform where any merchant can self-KYC online in minutes, open an account, collect all payments and manage transactions from a single mobile app. Moreover, Wonder has pioneered instant payments settlement (T+0) in Hong Kong.Headquartered in Hong Kong, Bindo Labs raised its USD 6 million series A funding round in 2021 led by Hong Kong Telecom (HKT). Currently, Bindo Labs has offices in Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Shenzhen, and Changsha.For more information, please visit: https://wonder.app/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.

LONDON, Aug 29, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The UK’s pioneering intercity battery train began testing on the national rail network earlier this week. This key milestone will see the battery technology trialled on routes between York to Manchester Airport and Leeds to Liverpool Lime Street over the next eight weeks.The train will be easily recognisable with the distinct due to the new livery which celebrates the collaboration between TransPennine Express (TPE), Angel Trains and Hitachi Rail.A variety of important tests will take place, including the battery’s ability to improve performance on hills,regenerative charging via braking, fuel and emission savings, and zero-emission battery mode in train stations.Rail network testing is taking place after the battery train successfully completed low speed tests on the test track at Hitachi Rail’s Newton Aycliffe manufacturing facility. During these tests the train was propelled entirely by the battery, producing zero tailpipe emissions.This is the first UK trial where a diesel engine is replaced with a battery on an intercity train. The battery has beensuccessfully retrofitted onto one of TPE’s ‘Nova 1’ trains (five-carriage intercity Class 802).The battery, which generates a peak power of more than 700kw, is predicted to reduce emissions and fuel costs by as much as 30% on a Hitachi intercity train. It will also demonstrate how battery technology can reduce costs in the railways by reducing the need for overhead wires in tunnel sections and over complex junctions.The trial also aims to support the UK battery sector and green growth, with Hitachi Rail investing over £15 million todevelop this pioneering technology with Turntide Technologies in Sunderland.Paul Staples, Engineering, Safety and Sustainability Director at TransPennine Express, said:“This trial is a huge step towards the rail industry in the UK – and around the world reducing CO2 emissions and we are excited to be part of it.“TPE is dedicated to making our journeys greener by reducing our carbon footprint, creating resilience to climate change and improving local air quality.”Matthew Prosser, Asset Management Director at Angel Trains, said:“Following the success of one of our Class 802 trains running entirely in battery-mode at Newton Aycliffe, we're excited to see how this technology performs on the national rail network. This project represents a multimillion-poundjoint investment by Angel Trains and Hitachi in one of our newest fleets. It will both support and draw upon the skilled jobs and expertise at Hitachi's Newton Aycliffe facility and enable us to demonstrate how battery retrofit technology can help us decarbonise our railways."Paul Newlove, Head of Green Technologies Programme said:“After seeing the train running entirely in battery-mode at Newton Aycliffe, I can’t wait to see how this technology can reduce emissions, reduce fuel costs and improve air quality on the Transpennine route.“This part of the trial is going to be really exciting because we start to prove the benefits of this green technology for passengers, operators and policy makers.“It has been such a team effort, with colleagues in Japan, Italy and UK working together for years to finally reach this important stage.”This important project draws upon Hitachi’s global expertise which includes delivering the world’s first passenger battery train in Japan, and rolling out the Masaccio, Europe’s first battery hybrid train in Italy in 2022. The evolution of the technology continues at pace with Hitachi Rail recently unveiling its new intercity version of the train, and with atarget to roll out a EuroMasaccio in additional European markets, including Germany from 2026.The development of this battery is an important step for the rail industry both home and abroad. Hitachi Rail has an ambition to install this battery on trains around the world, potentially creating a UK export and improving energy efficiency.There are thousands of trains running across the world that are powered by diesel engines, which will need to be decarbonised to meet net zero targets. In Italy, the Masaccio has instantly cut CO2 emissions by 50% compared to thediesel trains it has replaced. The ability to replace diesel engines with a powerful battery, and unlock cheaper partial electrification, can create a low-cost pathway to decarbonise railways around the world.About Hitachi Rail:Hitachi Rail is connecting the future of mobility - helping every passenger, customer and community enjoy the benefits of more seamless, sustainable transport.With innovative technology and world-leading delivery capabilities, Hitachi Rail is a trusted partner to customers andconsortia partners globally. The company is an expert in every part of the railway: from train manufacturing and maintenance to digital signalling and smart mobility. Its pioneering products, such as the iconic high speed bullet train,enable billions of passenger journeys and the transport of millions of tonnes of freight, every year.Drawing on the powerful expertise of the wider Hitachi group companies, Hitachi Rail is uniquely placed to furtherenhance its offer to customers through pioneering new digital solutions and services.In FY22, Hitachi Rail had revenues of over €5bn. The company has around 15,000 employees in 38 countries, and it invests in its diverse and talented teams.Hitachi Rail’s business is local, but its reach is global. With deep roots in its communities, the company is committed to delivering sustainable progress for all.Find out more by visiting hitachirail.comAbout TransPennine Express:TransPennine Express is an intercity rail provider with a vision to Take the North Further. Following an investment of more than £500m including the introduction of new Nova trains, we are continuing to transform rail services through high levels of performance, investment in stations, enhanced accessibility, measures to improve sustainability andmore investment. We are owned by TransPennine Trains Ltd, a subsidiary of the Department for Transport’s public sector owning group, ‘DOHL.’ DOHL has responsibility for three other rail companies: Northern Trains Ltd (Northern), LNER and SE Trains (Southeastern).Our network is:North TransPennine – including Newcastle to Liverpool Lime Street, Redcar/Middlesbrough to Manchester Airport, Scarborough to York, Edinburgh to Newcastle and Hull to Liverpool Lime StreetSouth TransPennine – including Cleethorpes to Liverpool Lime Street via Doncaster, Sheffield to Liverpool Lime Street, and Manchester Airport to SheffieldAnglo Scottish – including Liverpool to Glasgow, and Manchester Airport to Edinburgh Destinations served by TransPennine Express include Liverpool, Manchester, Manchester Airport, Grimsby, Cleethorpes, Sheffield, Warrington, Birchwood, Irlam, Urmston, Stockport, Dore & Totley, Meadowhall, Doncaster, Scunthorpe, Barnetby, Habrough, Hull, York, Lea Green, Scarborough, Durham, Newton-Le-Willows, Gatley, Stalybridge, Mossley,Greenfield, Marsden, Slaithwaite, Huddersfield, Deighton, Mirfield, Ravensthorpe, Dewsbury, Batley, Morley, Cottingley, Leeds, Cross Gates, Garforth, Selby, Howden, Brough, Malton, Seamer, Thirsk, Northallerton, Darlington, Yarm, Thornaby, Middlesbrough, Redcar Central, Saltburn, Chester-Le-Street, Newcastle, Morpeth, Alnmouth For Alnwick, Berwick-Upon-Tweed, Reston, Dunbar, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Carlisle, Bolton, St Helens Central, Wigan, Preston, Lancaster, Oxenholme, Penrith, Lockerbie, Carstairs, Motherwell, Haymarket and East LintonAbout Angel Trains:Angel Trains is the UK’s largest rolling stock company. We have invested more than £1.5 billion in rolling stock and innovation projects in the last ten years.Helping to modernise and improve UK rail and meet the needs of today’s passengers. We collaborate with like-mindedcompanies to make our trains more accessible, comfortable and connected. Together, we are creating an environment where people can enjoy the journey as much as the destination.We invest in small and medium businesses who drive our innovation in new technologies. From battery and hydrogenpower systems to 3D printed parts and high-definition cameras. Our long-term outlook means we can support skilled jobs across the sector, from coast to coast, across the whole country.We will continue to reimagine our investments, to work with the talented people in our industry and to engineer a brighter, greener, more cost-effective future for UK Rail. www.angeltrains.co.uk Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HIROSHIMA, Japan, Aug 29, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mazda Motor Corporation's production and sales results for July 2024 are summarized below.I. Production BreakdownJul 2024Jan - Jul 2024UnitsYoYChange (%)UnitsYoYChange (%)DOMESTIC PRODUCTIONPassenger Vehicles78,529+8.7447,057-8.4Total78,529+8.7447,057-8.4 OVERSEAS PRODUCTIONPassenger Vehicles33,244+10.3256,706+14.4Total33,244+10.3256,706+14.4 GLOBAL PRODUCTIONPassenger Vehicles111,773+9.2703,763-1.2Total111,773+9.2703,763-1.21. Domestic ProductionMazda's domestic production volume in July 2024 increased 8.7% year on year due to increased production of passenger vehicles.[Domestic production of key models in July 2024]CX-5:29,947 units(down 0.1% year on year)CX-30:11,778 units(up 1.5%)MAZDA3:9,690 units(up 5.8%)2. Overseas ProductionMazda's overseas production volume in July 2024 increased 10.3% year on year due to increased production of passenger vehicles.[Overseas production of key models in July 2024]CX-30:10,212 units(down 12.4% year on year)CX-50:6,836 units(up 69.2%)MAZDA3:5,181 units(down 21.8%)II. Domestic Sales BreakdownJul 2024Jan - Jul 2024UnitsYoYChange (%)UnitsYoYChange (%)DOMESTIC SALESPassenger Vehicles10,622-24.774,132-30.9Commercial Vehicles808-18.05,962-20.3 Registration Total8,392-28.857,415-38.6Micro-mini Total3,038-8.222,679+6.6Total11,430-24.280,094-30.3Mazda's domestic sales volume in July 2024 decreased 24.2% year on year due to decreased sales of passenger and commercial vehicles.Mazda's registered vehicle market share was 3.2% (down 1.5 points year on year), with a 2.1% share of the micro-mini segment (down 0.5 points) and a 2.8% total market share (down 1.2 points).[Domestic sales of key models in July 2024]CX-5:1,826 units(down 15.3% year on year)CX-30:1,502 units(up 8.6%)MAZDA2:1,489 units(down 18.0%)III. Exports BreakdownJul 2024Jan - Jul 2024UnitsYoYChange (%)UnitsYoYChange (%)EXPORTSPassenger Vehicles62,452+12.7383,591-3.8 North America27,156+17.7168,226+2.9Europe14,215-7.687,912-11.4Oceania4,176-16.437,644-0.4Others16,905+41.389,809-8.6Total62,452+12.7383,591-3.8Mazda's export volume in July 2024 increased 12.7% year on year due to increased shipments to North America and other regions.[Exports of key models in July 2024]CX-5:24,696 units(down 3.7% year on year)MAZDA3:9,433 units(up 12.1%)CX-30:9,389 units(up 34.2%)IV. Global Sales BreakdownJul 2024Jan - Jul 2024UnitsYoYChange (%)UnitsYoYChange (%)GLOBAL SALESDomestic Sales11,430-24.280,094-30.3 U.S.A39,863+30.1242,350+13.0 China4,816-38.346,504+17.5 Europe12,052-10.4107,146-2.1 Others37,187+6.5249,818+1.1Overseas Sales93,918+8.2645,818+5.8Total105,348+3.4725,912+0.1Mazda's global sales volume in July 2024 increased 3.4% year on year due to increased sales in the U.S. and other regions.[Global sales of key models in July 2024]CX-5:28,538 units(down 0.8% year on year)CX-30:20,310 units(up 22.8%)MAZDA3:13,983 units(down 12.1%)*1) Overseas production figures indicate Mazda-brand units coming off the production line (excluding CKD units).*2) Global production figures are the sum total of domestic and overseas production volumes.*3) All information in this press release is as of the date of the publicity. No updates after that date are reflected. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Toyota City, Japan, Aug 29, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Toyota Motor Corporation announces its sales, production, and export results for July 2024 as well as the cumulative total from January to July 2024, including those for subsidiaries Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. and Hino Motors, Ltd.To view more information on the sales, production, and export results by country and region, including specific details on the reasons for any changes in results, data from the past 10 years of sales, production, and export results, and data concerning electrified vehicle sales and Lexus sales, please download the document titled "Detailed data" from the top of this page.This document also includes sales, production, and export results and data concerning electrified vehicles sales and Lexus sales for every month in the past two years.Click here for detailed sales, production, and export results ("Detailed data (Excel)") Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Aug 29, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi, Ltd. (“Hitachi”) and KDDI Corporation (“KDDI”) today announced the outline of a joint exhibition (“the Exhibition”), “Society 5.0 and Future City” at the “Future Life Expo: Future City” project (“the Future City”), a part of the Future Society Showcase Project Exhibition in Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan (“the Expo”).The concept of the Exhibition is “We can change the future.” Visitors can choose solutions for the future issues and experience how the city in the future will change through simulations.Hitachi and KDDI will work together with visitors to realize Society 5.0, a human-centered society where people live vibrantly, by combining the know-how and technologies of both companies, which have been cultivated as providers ofsocial infrastructure and platforms that support cities.Overview of Society 5.0 and Future CityThe exhibition consists of a “Theater Zone” and an “Action Zone.”(1) About the Theater Zone- Facility Overview: This is a theater-style facility that can accommodate 120 visitors at a time and offers an interactive experience of choosing a solution for creating the city in the future using smart devices. It embodies a “cyber-physical system,” that uses advanced IT systems to link cyber space and physical space to analyze current conditions and predict the future in order to solve social issues. The environment providing similarexperience as the Theater Zone will be built on the Metaverse and will be available for visitors to experience from outside the venue of the Expo.- Story: The Theater Zone is set up as a cyber space where visitors can look into the future of 2035 andparticipate in solving problems. Visitors will receive SOS on familiar themes from a child living in the future in 2035. All 120 visitors will think together and choose a solution, while having fun and deepening theirunderstanding of future issues and options with a navigator.Visitors can experience how the city in the future will change with the solutions they choose as they guide thechild living in the future through a simulation in cyber space.(2) About the Action Zone•This is a gaming experience that children can enjoy participating in while moving their bodies. Visitors can experience how each action lead to solutions to urban issues and change the city in the future. Details will be announced later.The city in the future on a virtual platformKDDI will provide the city in the future on a virtual platform during the Expo. This city in the future will be built not onlyby KDDI but also by other sponsors of the Future City.Visitors can think about the future they want to live in bywalking around the city as an avatar and interacting with the sponsor's future technology and talking with the city's residents. Details will be announced later.Previous Press ReleasesAugust 2, 2023, Press ReleaseHitachi and KDDI to Jointly Exhibit in Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan’s “Future Life Expo: Future City,” a Project Showcasing a Future City www.hitachi.com/New/cnews/month/2023/08/230802b.htmlAbout Hitachi, Ltd.Hitachi drives Social Innovation Business, creating a sustainable society through the use of data and technology. We solve customers' and society's challenges with Lumada solutions leveraging IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products. Hitachi operates under the 3 business sectors of “Digital Systems & Services” – supporting our customers’ digital transformation; “Green Energy & Mobility” – contributing to a decarbonized society through energy and railwaysystems, and “Connective Industries” – connecting products through digital technology to provide solutions in variousindustries. Driven by Digital, Green, and Innovation, we aim for growth through co-creation with our customers. The company’s revenues as 3 sectors for fiscal year 2023 (ended March 31, 2024) totaled 8,564.3 billion yen, with 573 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 270,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at www.hitachi.com.About KDDI CorporationKDDI is a telecommunication service provider in Japan, offering multitude of services to individual customers through its “au”, “UQ mobile” and “pivo” brands, and to corporate customers through its “KDDI BUISNESS” brand.In May 2022, KDDI had stated “KDDI VISION 2030: The creation of a society in which anyone can make their dreams areality, by enhancing the power to connect”. Under this vision, KDDI is promoting its business strategy in the Mid-Term Management Strategy (FY2022–FY2025), defined as the “Satellite Growth Strategy”. With a focus on 5G communications, data-driven practices, and generative AI, KDDI will accelerate business growth by providing value-added services in the growth areas of DX, finance, energy, and life transformation (LX) which encompasses five areas of future growth (Mobility, Sports/Entertainment, Web3/Metaverse, Healthcare, and Space).Placing "sustainability management" at the core, KDDI will aim to achieve the sustainable growth of society and the enhancement of corporate value together with our partners, by harnessing the “Satellite Growth Strategy” and strengthening the management base. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Hitachi High-Tech Corporation ("Hitachi High-Tech") and Gencurix, Inc. ("Gencurix") have entered a strategic partnership (the Partnership) in the field of cancer molecular diagnostics(1). The Partnership aims to develop a testing service for the cancer molecular diagnostics by combining Hitachi High-Tech's core expertise in R&D and manufacturing of in vitro diagnostic products and digital technology, and Gencurix's technology and experience in biomarker(2) discovery for cancer diagnosis and development of molecular testing service. As a part of the Partnership, both companies concluded a Feasibility Study (FS) agreement to examine the feasibility of the business and completed the checkpoints defined in this FS agreement in June 2024. As the next step, Hitachi High-Tech and Gencurix are planning commercialization of testing services in Japan.In recent years, cancer treatments have begun to offer "personalized medicine," in which genes and proteins are examined in detail for precise diagnosis and treatment selection, and the treatment is tailored to the individual patient. As treatment modalities evolve, doctors and patients are facing with increasing opportunities to choose treatment, and clinical testing is becoming more important in supporting that choice. In the field of cancer diagnosis, where new drugs and treatments are rapidly being developed, there is a need to discover appropriate biomarkers, establish testing methods, and use digital technology to provide reports promptly with high medical value.Under these circumstances, Hitachi High-Tech, strengthening its molecular diagnostics business, and Gencurix, being specialized in biomarker discovery technology, will join forces to develop highly reliable testing services for cancer diagnosis.In April 2024, Hitachi, Ltd.("Hitachi") and Hitachi High-Tech consolidated Hitachi's Healthcare Business Division (radiation therapy, digital healthcare, etc.) to Hitachi High-Tech to promote the healthcare business based on "Diagnosis x Therapy x Digital" and create healthcare innovation. Especially in area of in vitro diagnostics area, we have contributed to improve quality and efficiency of testing with a product lineup that includes in vitro diagnostic equipment that analyzes blood and other specimens to support the diagnosis of diseases, and DNA sequencers. This Partnership is part of Hitachi High Tech's growth strategy of strengthening this molecular diagnostics business. Towards creating "a society without fear of cancer," Hitachi High-Tech aims to contribute to the improvement of people's QoL (Quality of Life) through "personalized medicine" and "sophisticated diagnosis of intractable diseases."Gencurix is a leading life science company established in 2011 in Seoul, Korea, engaged in the discovery of biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, the provision of testing services, and the sale of testing kits. Gencurix provides molecular diagnostic solutions across the cancer care process, from early detection to prognosis, companion diagnostics(3) and recurrence monitoring. Gencurix operates in Korea, Europe, and other countries around the world, and promotes joint development with pharmaceutical companies.Hitachi High-Tech and Gencurix will jointly develop cancer diagnostic tests required in clinical practice to promote personalized medicine in the oncology field and aim to provide highly reliable testing service solutions using digital technology. We will first jointly launch a testing service business in Japan and then in other countries.(1) Molecular diagnostics: Molecular diagnostic involves measuring biomolecules such as DNA, RNA, and protein contained in tissues and blood (body fluids) and provides information necessary for diagnosis or selection of therapeutic drugs to healthcare professionals.(2) Biomarker: A biomarker is a test item or biological substance that is an indicator of the presence or absence of a certain disease, a change in a disease status, or a therapeutic efficacy. Biomarkers are becoming increasingly important and enabling personalized medicine in specific disease areas such as cancer. In addition to being used as indicators to measure therapeutic efficacy, biomarkers are also expected to be used as indicators for disease prevention in the future.(3) Companion diagnostics: In vitro diagnostics to test the indication of a specific drug to improve the efficacy or safety of the drug.About GencurixGencurix is a molecular diagnostics company for cancer that provides digital PCR-based products and testing services based on a liquid biopsy, biomarker discovery and commercialization platform. Under the motto "Best in Class," Gencurix strives to solve clinical unmet needs with new technologies and testing products.Key products include GenesWell BCT, a breast cancer prognostic test, and Droplex's line of companion diagnostics for a wide range of cancers, including lung, colorectal and endometrial cancers. Gencurix has developed early diagnostic tests for major cancers, including liver and colorectal cancer, and is promoting clinical research. As written, Gencurix provides molecular diagnostic solutions across the cancer care process, from early detection to prognosis, companion diagnostics and recurrence monitoring.For further information, visit https://www.gencurix.com/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/Contact:Business Development Dept., Diagnostic System Business Strategy Planning Div.,Diagnostic System Business, Healthcare Business Group,Hitachi High-Tech Corporationwww.hitachi-hightech.com/global/en/contactus/#sec-2 Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Kawasaki and Osaka, Aug 28, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu Limited and the Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology at Osaka University (QIQB) today announced the joint development of two new technologies for the space-time efficient analog rotation quantum computing architecture (1) that will accelerate the realization of practical quantum computing.Fujitsu and QIQB have leveraged these new technologies, one that improves phase angle accuracy during phase rotation (2) and one that automatically generates efficient qubit operation procedures, to show that it is theoretically possible for a quantum computer to perform a calculation that would take a classical computer five years, in only ten hours. The two organizations found that the calculation, a material energy estimate, would be possible using only 60,000 qubits, significantly less than the amount typically thought to be required (3) for fault-tolerant quantum computation (FTQC) (4) to surpass the calculation speed of classical computers.These results demonstrate for the first time how quantum advantage, i.e., quantum computers being able to solve problems faster than current classical computers, can be achieved in the early-FTQC era (5), which is expected to arrive around 2030. Quantum computing is expected to accelerate technological innovations in various fields, including enabling a larger-scale analysis of the Hubbard model (6) for developing high temperature superconductors (7), which may improve the efficiency of electrical infrastructure, as well as lead to innovations in material development and drug discovery.The generation of efficient qubit operation procedures was achieved through the development of a quantum circuit generator. This system introduces a streamlined the process for converting logic gates, which are the fundamental operations of quantum computing, into physical gates, which operate the qubits. The system is also equipped with acceleration technology that minimizes computing time by dynamically changing the operational procedures of the qubits.The two organizations initially announced the quantum computing architecture on March 23, 2023 (8), but there were obstacles to practical applications including insufficient accuracy in phase rotation and the lack of an established physical gating procedure, a method of operating qubits suitable for specific calculation problems. These new technologies address these obstacles.Through their continued joint quantum computing initiatives, Fujitsu and QIQB aim to contribute to solving societal issues, addressing decarbonization and reducing the cost of new material development.AcknowledgementsThis research was supported by the following grants: Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST); the Program on Open Innovation Platforms for Industry-academia Co-creation (COI-NEXT), "Quantum Software Research Hub" (JPMJPF2014); JST Moonshot Goal 6 "Realization of a fault-tolerant universal quantum computer that will revolutionize economy, industry, and security by 2050", R&D project "Research and Development of Theory and Software for Fault-tolerant Quantum Computers" (JPMJMS2061); and Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology’s Quantum Leap Flagship Program (MEXT Q-LEAP) "Development of quantum software by intelligent quantum system design and its applications" (JPMXS0120319794).[1] Space-time efficient analog rotation quantum computing architecture :A quantum computing architecture that can significantly reduce the number of physical qubits needed for arbitrary phase rotation, An essential step in achieving practical quantum computing.[2] Phase rotation :An operation in which the arbitrary phase angle of a qubit rotates. An essential element in unlocking the true power of quantum computing.[3] One million qubits :The estimated number of qubits required to solve the FeMoco (enzyme active center) energy estimation problem with an error rate of 0.1% (source cited: Reiher, et. al., PNAS, 114 (29) 7555-7560 (2017)).[4] Fault-tolerant quantum computation (FTQC) :Fault-tolerant quantum computation achieved through the correction of quantum errors.[5] Early-FTQC era :An era in which quantum computers work with only a maximum of 100,000 physical qubits and FTQC is considered to be impossible to achieve.[6] Hubbard model :A theoretical model for calculating material properties. It is used to describe strongly correlated electron systems, including in high-temperature superconductivity.[7] High temperature superconductor :A material that exhibits a phenomenon which causes it to have zero electrical resistance when it reaches a temperature above the boiling point of liquid nitrogen.[8] Fujitsu and Osaka University develop new quantum computing architecture, accelerating progress toward practical application of quantum computerAbout the Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology at Osaka UniversityThe Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology consists of six research groups: Quantum Computing, Transdisciplinary Quantum Science, Quantum Information Devices, Quantum Communication and Security, Quantum Sensing, and Quantum Biology. QIQB promotes transdisciplinary research between each of these research groups and with other academic fields. The Center is an international research hub for quantum innovation by actively promoting international academic exchange and collaboration across borders. QIQB seeks to play a key role in nurturing future quantum leaders and specialists through education and training. For more information: https://qiqb.osaka-u.ac.jp/en/.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 Osaka UniversityOsaka University was founded in 1931 as one of Japan’s imperial universities through strong demand from political and business circles in Osaka, as well as the people of Osaka City and Prefecture. The spiritual roots of Osaka University can be found in Kaitokudo and Tekijuku, educational institutions of the Edo period. After its merger with Osaka University of Foreign Studies in 2007, Osaka University became a comprehensive university with its own School of Foreign Studies. Boasting 11 undergraduate schools, 15 graduate schools, and 6 affiliated research institutes excelling in the fields of the humanities and social sciences, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, science, and engineering, Osaka University is one of Japan’s premier comprehensive research universities.Osaka University will celebrate the 100th anniversary of its founding in 2031. We will contribute to the creation of a society where each member feels worth living through co-creation with diverse stakeholders to solve local and global challenges in accordance with the university's motto of “Live Locally, Grow Globally.”Press ContactsFujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiriesCenter for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology at Osaka UniversityQuantum Software Research HubE-mail: coi-next@qiqb.osaka-u.ac.jp Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Aug 27, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) and Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (JAL) have agreed to commence joint exploration of potential collaboration in the aircraft aftermarket business. The two companies have signed a memorandum on the matter.The aircraft aftermarket business includes services such as repairs, maintenance, parts supply, and refurbishment, which are essential for the maintenance and enhancement of aircraft's flight safety and operational efficiency.With the global recovery in aircraft demand, the need for maintenance services has also increased. JAL and MHI have begun exploring collaboration in this area in order to respond to the various issues currently affecting the aircraft aftermarket. JAL Group, as an aircraft operator, brings expertise and experience in aircraft operation and maintenance, while MHI Group, as an aircraft manufacture, contributes with its expertise and experience in aircraft design development, manufacture, certification, and MRO (maintenance, repair & overhaul) services particularly in North America.Within JAL Group, going forward the joint exploration of collaboration will be performed by JAL Engineering Co., Ltd. (JALEC), which is in charge of aircraft maintenance. Meanwhile JAL and MHI will continue their current exploration underway toward expanding cooperation in human resources development and technology development relating to the aircraft industry.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, Aug 27, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - TRENDE Inc., a renewable energy company that develops and provides renewable energy solutions to residential customers in Japan, today announced that it has been selected for Ehime Prefecture's "Digital Implementation Acceleration Project" under the Try Angle Ehime Initiative. TRENDE will collaborate with Toshiba Infrastructure Systems & Solutions Corporation (TISS) on a project to promote local production and consumption of renewable energy using V2X systems and P2P energy trading.V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) is a communication technology that connects vehicles to various devices and enables mutual collaboration. In this project, TISS will utilize V2X systems to efficiently utilize renewable energy and electric vehicles (EVs) at their Matsuyama factory. The EVs used by employees for commuting (6 vehicles) will serve as a source of adjustable power.P2P (Peer-to-Peer) energy trading is a model that allows producers of renewable energy, such as solar power, and stored energy to directly sell to nearby consumers. This enables households with solar panels and storage systems to sell surplus power at higher rates and businesses like the TISS factory to procure electricity at lower costs.The project aims to reduce CO2 emissions, keep energy spending within the prefecture, and lower electricity costs for local businesses and residents. TRENDE will leverage its P2P energy trading platform to facilitate transactions between TISS's Matsuyama factory, which will utilize solar panels, batteries, and electric vehicles (EVs), and approximately 30 local households with solar and storage systems. This will enable households to sell surplus power at higher rates and the factory to procure electricity at lower costs."We are excited to partner with Ehime Prefecture on this innovative project that showcases the potential of P2P energy trading to drive the adoption of renewable energy," said Masashi Nishio, CEO of TRENDE. "This is a major milestone for our company as we work to fulfill our mission of realizing a society that actively utilizes renewable energy."TRENDE plans to use this project as a springboard to accelerate the spread of P2P energy trading and further its goal of enabling a renewable energy-powered future.About TRENDETRENDE Inc. is a renewable energy company that develops and provides renewable energy solutions to residential customers in Japan via its Teraris (https://teraris.jp/) service website. TRENDE’s mission is to accelerate the widespread adoption of renewable energy and redefine the energy ecosystem in Japan with a customer-centric business model and innovative P2P platform. The company’s investors include Itochu, Idemitsu and Dubai Electricity and Water Authority. For more information, please visit http://trende.jp/.About Try Angle EhimeTry Angle Ehime aims to support people and businesses in Ehime Prefecture who are challenging the future by implementing digital solutions to solve local issues and realize a society where digital technology supports human connections. The project is being implemented as an initiative of the "Digital Implementation Acceleration Project" for the fiscal year 2024. For more details about the project, please visit https://dx-ehime.jp/.For inquiries, please contact:TRENDE Inc.Email: pr@trende.jp Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Aug 26, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501, "Hitachi") and the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (“AIST”) today announced that their jointly developed technology for redacting digitally signed documents (“redactable signature” technology) has passed final approval by the Joint Technical Committee 1 (JTC 1) of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO)/International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), gaining adoption in international standard ISO/IEC 23264-2. The two newly standardized schemes provide means for ensuring the authenticity (absence of falsification) of digitally signed documents when they are made public in partially redacted form.The redactable signature schemes use digital technology to realize partial disclosure of documents while enabling detection of unauthorized alteration or falsification. The two newly standardized schemes provide an efficient means for partial disclosure of public documents, while enabling the authenticity of data related to product development, in fields such as pharmaceuticals and finance, to be guaranteed, without loss of data use convenience, even when adocument has undergone sanitization (anonymization) for privacy protection reasons. They are thus expected to contribute toward a safe data-utilization society.Background to the StandardizationNow that digital technology has come into wide use, proceedings that used to involve printed documents are being replaced by digital processes, giving all the more importance to digitalsignature technology able to detect data alterations or falsification and guarantee data authenticity. As a current way ofofficial document management, it is sometimes necessary to redact (erase or blank out) certain information for privacy or other reasons before publication or disclosure. With conventional digital signing technology, however, the act ofredaction itself is regarded as falsification, invalidating the digital signature and making it difficult to guarantee the authenticity of a redacted document.In addressing this issue, ISO/IEC JTC 1*1 drew up international standard ISO/IEC 23264, “Information security—Redaction of authentic data” relating to the application of digital signature technology, with its expanding uses. To promote this standardization, Hitachi and AIST, starting some twenty years earlier, engaged in pioneering research anddevelopment on a digital signature technology for realizing redaction of documents by digital means (redactable signature technology). As a result of this joint development, two redactable signature schemes (MHI06 and MIMSYTI05) were adopted in international standard ISO/IEC 23264-2.Features of the Standardized TechnologyUsing the redactable signature schemes, a signer can set redactable data blocks in advance at the time of creating adocument and set each block as either disclosable or non-disclosable before public release. Moreover, the digital signature applied when a document is created can be used to verify a document that is partially non-disclosable, and to confirm that the document has undergone only legitimate editing. Furthermore, the redactable signature schemes adopted in the new ISO/IEC 23264-2 standard each have different additional security properties; and in the case of MHI06 and MIMSYTI05 jointly developed by Hitachi and AIST, both have the property of allowing documents to be edited multiple times and are able to control the disclosure scope divided into multiple levels.MHI06 has the property of enabling multiple signed documents or data to be merged, within the scope specified in advance (Mergeability), and enabling the information in redacted fields to be hidden (Undetectability of redactions). This scheme is suited to uses in which the scope of signed data to disclose should be dynamically and efficiently changed, depending on the privacy protection policy and status.MIMSYTI05 can add redactable signature functionality using any kind of digital signing method. It can be combined not only with such methods as RSA signature*2 or ECDSA*3 but also with quantum-safe signature methods. In addition, this scheme is suited to applications where documents are sorted by whether they contain redactions since it can detect the fact of redactions.Looking AheadThe redactable signature schemes were initially developed as digital technology for protection of public documents but are expected to find wider application not limited to that purpose, including for verification of the originality of partially released data. By combining this technology with sanitization technology, for example, it is expected to find wide use as technology achieving both privacy protection and data authentication. Hitachi and AIST will continue engaging in research and development on redactable signature and other cryptographic technologies, along with promoting their implementation in products and services, thereby contributing to realization of a safe digital society.(1) ISO/IEC JTC 1: JTC 1: Joint Technical Committee 1 of the ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission)(2) RSA signature: A digital signature method relying for its security on the difficulty of integer factorization problem(3) ECDSA (Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm): A digital signature method relying for its security on the difficulty of the elliptic curve discrete logarithm problemAbout Hitachi, Ltd.Hitachi drives Social Innovation Business, creating a sustainable society through the use of data and technology. We solve customers' and society's challenges with Lumada solutions leveraging IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products. Hitachi operates under the 3 business sectors of “Digital Systems & Services” – supporting our customers’ digital transformation; “Green Energy & Mobility” – contributing to a decarbonized society through energy and railwaysystems, and “Connective Industries” – connecting products through digital technology to provide solutions in variousindustries. Driven by Digital, Green, and Innovation, we aim for growth through co-creation with our customers. The company’s revenues as 3 sectors for fiscal year 2023 (ended March 31, 2024) totaled 8,564.3 billion yen, with 573 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 270,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at www.hitachi.com.About the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST)The National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) is a national research institute with 12research bases in Japan and approximately 2,300 researchers. It is one of the largest public research institutes inJapan that conducts research and development of science and technology. AIST's mission is to "solve social problems" and "strengthen industrial competitiveness." For this, our core technologies are bundled together in its 5fields and 2 centers to demonstrate comprehensive capabilities, and it conducts R&D from a central and pioneering position in the national innovation system based on the national strategies formulated bearing in mind the changing environment regarding innovation. For more information, please visit the AIST website (https://www.aist.go.jp/index_en.html).Contacts:Hitachi, Ltd.Research & Development Group: www8.hitachi.co.jp/inquiry/hqrd/news/en/form.jspNational Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) Cyber Physical Security Research CenterContact Page: www.aist.go.jp/aist_e/contact/index.html Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Singapore, Tokyo, Aug 26, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Singtel and Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on next-generation data centers and GPU Cloud in Japan and potentially the wider Asia Pacific region under the lead of Singtel's Digital InfraCo unit. The strategic partnership will combine Singtel’s extensive data center and connectivity expertise and technology platforms with Hitachi’s differentiating capability that enables end-to-end data center integration including green power solutions, cooling systems, storage infrastructure and data management. Together, the companies intend to sustainably enhance data center performance and capabilities, thereby accelerating AIadoption and digital transformation of enterprises.Notably, the agreement expands on a partnership announced by the companies in June 2024*1 to trial and integrate Singtel’s Paragon, the all-in-one orchestration platform for 5G, edge computing and cloud, with Hitachi’s AI applications for Hitachi’s manufacturing operations as well as enterprise customers. Through Singtel’s Paragon platform and Hitachi’s deep AI expertise, both companies aim to address the complexities faced by customers when deploying AI capabilities.Mr. Bill Chang, CEO of Singtel’s Digital InfraCo, said, “Our strategic partnership with Hitachi, a leader in digital systems and services fields, opens up new opportunities in a strategically important and expanding Japanese market. Building a strong ecosystem of partners has always been a priority at Singtel to better serve our customers and broaden our global reach. We look forward to bringing our collective expertise, digital assets and solutions to help more enterprises innovate and transform their businesses and operations through the cloud and AI. As we scale our digital capabilities with our partners like Hitachi, we aim to become a leader in the Asia Pacific region.”Singtel carved out Digital InfraCo in mid-2023 to serve as a catalyst for innovation and economic growth for AsiaPacific’s digital economies. Digital InfraCo’s portfolio includes Nxera, its regional data center arm, subsea cable and satellite businesses, and Paragon platform which are all crucial to advancing AI in the region. Digital InfraCo plans to launch GPU-as-a- Service (GPUaaS) later this year to better support enterprise AI adoption.Mr. Toshiaki Tokunaga, Executive Vice President and Executive Officer at Hitachi, said, “Since its inception, Hitachi’scorporate philosophy has centered on addressing the challenges faced by customers and society. As generative AI continues to drive new innovations, the issues of environmental impact due to rising electricity demand is becomingmore prominent. Striking a balance between these two factors is a significant mission for Hitachi’s Social Innovation Business. We are delighted to embark on this mission through our strategic alliance with Singtel. By combiningSingtel's expertise in the development and operation of sustainable data centers with the comprehensive capabilities of the Hitachi Group, ranging from green power solutions to facility and data management, we aim to enable companiesto utilize data centers in an intelligent and environmentally conscious manner; ultimately achieving continuous innovation while promoting sustainability.”AI-driven data center expansion is a major opportunity for Hitachi’s Social Innovation business expansion and its group businesses such as Hitachi Digital Services, Hitachi Energy and others as the expansion calls for the successfulintegration of all areas where Hitachi uniquely excels: information technology, operational technology and products.The key areas covered by the MOU are:Explore next-generation data center collaboration in Japan and Asia Pacific to address AI demand: Nxera andHitachi will explore opportunities to develop data centers across Japan and the rest of the Asia Pacific region. With the continued growth in cloud and AI momentum, it is important to operate smart and environmentally sustainable data centers through high efficiency, high quality data center management. Such an initiative would draw on Nxera’s expertise in data center design, building and operation along with Hitachi’s expertise in the production and delivery of data-center-focused equipment, next-generation energy solutions and advanced IT systems management that ensure stable operations within data center environments.Nxera is developing a platform of sustainable, hyper-connected AI-ready data centers in the region with a total capacity of more than 200MW in addition to 62MW of existing capacity in Singapore.Combine Singtel's GPU platform with Hitachi's AI expertise to develop enterprise applications: Hitachi will explore using Singtel’s GPUaaS for its internal AI applications and workloads. This effort would allow Hitachi to verifycomplementary Singtel-based benefits that can enhance Hitachi’s high-performance machine learning, generative AI, and other digital technologies and solutions. Subsequently, it would provide an opportunity for both companies to define more power-efficient methodologies that could advance any enterprise’s sustainability goals.Based on the results of Hitachi’s internal GPUaaS verification, the companies may also explore the co-creation ofenterprise-grade applications that combines Hitachi's expertise, including its generative AI technologies and platform,with Singtel's GPU cloud and Paragon platform. The aim is to further reduce customer development and deployment times as well as management and deployment overhead for AI applications.(1) Press release (June 27, 2024) ”Singtel and Hitachi Digital Partner to Accelerate Industrial AI Solutions” https://www.hitachi.com/New/cnews/month/2024/06/240628a.htmlWith the rapidly growing demand for AI and cloud services, Japan has become one of the largest and fastest growing data center markets in the Asia Pacific region. The market is expected to achieve a compound annual growth rate of9.8% and reach US$5 billion by 2028*2.(2) Structure Research, Japan (Tokyo & Osaka) DCI Report 2023: Data Centre Colocation, Hyperscale Cloud & InterconnectionAbout SingtelSingtel is a leading Asian communications technology group, operating next-generation connectivity, digital infrastructure and digital businesses including regional data centre arm Nxera and regional IT services arm NCS. TheGroup has presence in Asia, Australia and Africa and reaches over 780 million mobile customers in 21 countries.For consumers, Singtel delivers a complete and integrated suite of services, including mobile, broadband and TV. Forenterprises, Singtel offers a complementary array of workforce mobility solutions, data hosting, cloud, networkinfrastructure, analytics and cyber security capabilities.Singtel is dedicated to continuous innovation, harnessing technology to create new and exciting customerexperiences, support enterprises in their digital transformation and shape a more sustainable, digital future.For more information, visit www.singtel.com.About Hitachi, Ltd.Hitachi drives Social Innovation Business, creating a sustainable society through the use of data and technology. We solve customers' and society's challenges with Lumada solutions leveraging IT, OT (Operational Technology) andproducts. Hitachi operates under the business structure of “Digital Systems & Services” - supporting our customers’ digital transformation; “Green Energy & Mobility” - contributing to a decarbonized society through energy and railway systems, and “Connective Industries” - connecting products through digital technology to provide solutions in various industries. Driven by Digital, Green, and Innovation, we aim for growth through co-creation with our customers. The company’s consolidated revenues for fiscal year 2022 (ended March 31, 2023) totaled 10,881.1 billion yen, with 696 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 320,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at https://www.hitachi.com. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

DAMMAM, SAUDI ARABIA, Aug 26, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Power, a power solutions brand of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), announced today that it has received an order from Samsung C&T Corporation Saudi Arabia to provide its M501JAC combined-cycle (CCGT) hydrogen-ready gas turbine for a new industrial steam and electricity cogeneration plant project in Saudi Arabia developed by a consortium led by Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), one of the largest listed integrated utility companies in Europe, the Middle East and Africa and JERA Co., Inc., Japan's largest power generation company. The new plant will produce electricity and steam for a petrochemical complex located in Jubail in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.The new, 475 megawatt (MW) cogeneration power plant will be developed by a special purpose entity owned by TAQA (51%) and JERA (49%) and it will power the Saudi Aramco Total Refining and Petrochemical Company (SATORP) Strategic Expansion. SATORP is a joint venture between Saudi Aramco and TotalEnergies. The SATORP Strategic Expansion petrochemical complex is expected to house one of the largest mixed-load steam crackers in the Gulf region.In a historic milestone for Mitsubishi Power, the M501JAC will be the first Mitsubishi Power heavy duty gas turbine assembled in the Kingdom at Mitsubishi Power Saudi Arabia's assembly center in Dammam, aligning with Saudi Arabia's localization targets set out in Vision 2030. The 17,200 square meter facility also provides services for key gas turbine components and features a majority of Saudi employees, in line with Mitsubishi Power’s Saudi National program, which provides Saudi talent with rewarding careers pathways, and empowers them with advanced technical skills, through on the job training and knowledge exchange programs.One of the world's leading gas turbines in reliability, with an efficiency rate of more than 64%, Mitsubishi Power's JAC gas turbine is equipped to blend hydrogen with natural gas and will provide the SATORP Strategic Expansion power plant with flexibility, faster startup times, and load-following capabilities to help balance electricity supply and demand, ensuring a stable low-carbon power supply and supporting Saudi Arabia's industrial growth and decarbonization targets.In addition, Mitsubishi Power signed a long-term service agreement with the TAQA and JERA-led consortium for the provision of parts, repairs and services, to ensure high availability and sustained reliability of the equipment, which will be supported by Mitsubishi Power's service center in Saudi Arabia, located close to the plant site, enabling localized support as well as fast response time.Dr. Frank Possmeier, Chief Business Development Officer, TAQA's Generation business, said: "TAQA and its partners are pleased to partner with Mitsubishi Power to harness the efficiencies and benefits of its J-class gas turbine technology to drive operational excellence and sustainability in our new plant, which, once operational, will provide highly efficient power and steam for the SATORP Strategic Expansion petrochemical complex. Developing the most efficient and reliable utility projects is a priority for TAQA; as we look to offer best-in-class generation plants for our partners and build on our existing track record of success. We believe that the Najim Cogeneration Plant will exemplify a world-class facility once it is operational."Izumi Kai, Managing Executive Officer, Head of the Platform Business Division, JERA said: "JERA is excited to partner with Mitsubishi Power for the SATORP's Strategic Expansion. This new cogeneration plant, based on advanced J-class gas turbine technology, is designed to optimize energy efficiency, and reduce environmental impact. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, we believe that the plant will ensure reliable and efficient power and steam generation, setting new standards in operational performance and sustainability."Khalid Salem, President of Middle East & North Africa, Mitsubishi Power said: "We are proud to partner with TAQA and JERA on this landmark project which will play a pivotal role in the Kingdom's ambition to fast track its economic growth and meet its decarbonization goals, aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. Today heralds a new milestone in our journey of growth with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With the provision of Mitsubishi Power's cutting edge CCGT technology that will be assembled for the first time locally in the Kingdom, we are accelerating our ability to deliver clean, reliable and efficient power generation solutions that support our customers in powering the lives of communities in Saudi Arabia and across the region."With a rich heritage in Saudi Arabia spanning over fifty years, Mitsubishi Power works with key energy stakeholders including the Ministry of Energy, Saudi Aramco, the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC), and the Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC). The company began operations in Saudi Arabia with its first supply of boilers to Aramco in Abqaiq in the 1960s and has since been active in power projects with major utilities and industrial companies in the Kingdom. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Aug 26, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Repsol Honda Team rider Toni Bou (Spain, 37 years old) has won the 2024 FIM* Trial World Championship. He has clinched his 18th consecutive title, extending his own record, by winning the Round 6 in France, held on August 25.This year’s Trial World Championship is contested over seven rounds (12 trials). Bou was off to a good start to the season by winning both trials at the TrialGP of Japan, held for the first time as a season-opener, at Mobility Resort Motegi. Although he dominated Round 2 in Andorra, and was victorious in the first trial of the following TrialGP of Italy, Bou’s second place finish in Trial 2 put an end to his winning streak. Undeterred, he dominated Round 4 in Germany for his third perfect GP of the season, and Round 5 in Belgium. Going into Round 6, the TrailGP of France, Bou had already amassed 8 wins out of 9 trials in pursuit of his 18th consecutive TrailGP title. Once again Bou was victorious, and with a sufficient point gap to his closest contender, teammate Gabriel Marcelli (Spain, 24 years old), was crowned champion with one round remaining.Since clinching his first world championship title in 2007 on HRC’s Montesa COTA 4RT factory bike, Bou has increased his unparalleled consecutive outdoor championship titles to 18, and has also won his 17th consecutive X Trial World Championship, an indoor competition raced on artificially prepared sections. He currently leads the 2024 indoor championship which resumes in October, aiming to claim his 18th consecutive title.Toni Bou | Repsol Honda Team“First of all, I would like to thank the team for the incredible work they have done this season. When there is a chance to win the title, there is always more pressure and the possibility of best and we got a great victory. If we can win the title by winning the race, then it's even better. It has been a very good season in which we have worked very well. It is one of the best seasons of my professional career and I am very happy.”Takahisa Fujinami | Repsol Honda Team Manager“It was an incredible day and I want to congratulate Toni for the victory and the title. He has once again shown how great his talent is and the effort he puts in race after race to achieve the best results. I am also happy with Gabri’s race. It will be important to continue at this level in Ripoll to achieve the runner-up position. I want to thank HRC, all the sponsors and the team for supporting us on the way to the title and making it possible once again.”Koji Watanabe, President of Honda Racing Corporation“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Toni Bou on his unprecedented 18th consecutive win in the Trial World Championship. He has dominated this season with a series of victories since the opening round in Japan, and we look forward to him extending his records in the future. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to our team manager Takahisa Fujinami, the entire team staff, and the many sponsors who support our racing activities. Last but not least, I would like to thank once again all the trial fans around the world who have always given us their enthusiastic support!”About Toni BouBirth Date: October 17, 1986 (37 years old)Birthplace: SpainCareer Highlights:2003Trial World Championship debut2007Joins Repsol Montesa HRC, Wins his first Trial World Championship and X-Trial World Championship2008 - 2023Wins every Trial World Championship & X-Trial World Championship (17 each, 34 total)2024Wins his 18th Trial World ChampionshipMontesa COTA 4RT OverviewEngine: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke OHC single-cylinder engineFrame: Aluminum twin-tubeTires: 21-inch (front) 18-inch (rear)*FIM: Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

KAWASAKI, Japan, Aug 26, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu today announced that it will begin initiatives to attract global clinical trials to Japan and tackle the ‘drug loss’ issue by working with pharmaceutical companies and medical institutions to build a new medical data ecosystem. The efforts come under the Fujitsu Uvance Healthy Living, which aims to improve people’s well-being.In July 2024, Fujitsu formed a strategic partnership with Paradigm Health, Inc., a US startup that provides one of the world’s most advanced clinical trial platforms. Through utilizing this platform, Fujitsu’s Healthy Living Platform, and the Fujitsu Kozuchi AI service, Fujitsu and Paradigm will facilitate the collection and processing of data stored at medical institutions and speed up the clinical trial planning process.In addition, starting today, Fujitsu will release Patient-centric Clinical Trials, a new service for automatically creating clinical trial documents using Fujitsu’s proprietary large language model (LLM). This service will be positioned in the company’s Healthy Living portfolio.Fujitsu will continue to expand its support to include not only clinical trial planning, but also implementation, and will work to solve issues throughout the entire clinical trial process. Through these efforts, Fujitsu aims to secure 20.0 billion yen in revenue in fiscal 2030, as well as contribute to achieving a society in which patients can quickly obtain the medicine they need and choose the treatment that best suits them.BackgroundIn Japan, patients who participate in clinical trials are dispersed across multiple hospitals making the process costly and time consuming. There has been an increasing number of cases in which Japan is excluded from regions targeted for global clinical trials. The impact of Japan’s drug pricing policy is also contributing to this situation.As a result, the number of drugs that are in use outside of Japan but are not approved for use in Japan had risen to 143 as of March 2023 (source: the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan).Overview of the Initiatives1. Accelerating Digitization in the Area of Clinical Trials through Fujitsu’s Partnership with ParadigmFujitsu will work with Paradigm, a US startup that provides pharmaceutical companies and medical institutions with one-stop support for the clinical trial process, to develop a new clinical trial data ecosystem that utilizes medical data. Paradigm’s clinical trial platform, which hosts many global clinical trials and has a long track record of success, will be combined with Fujitsu’s operational support expertise and cutting-edge technologies in the area of healthcare and life sciences in Japan.Clinical data, such as medical data and genomic data, will be collected from medical institutions through Fujitsu’s Healthy Living Platform. Fujitsu’s AI service, Fujitsu Kozuchi, will process this data so that it is compliant with the necessary laws and regulations, and it will be provided to Paradigm. In addition, Paradigm will use its clinical trial platform to analyze the data and provide pharmaceutical companies with the insight needed to plan and conduct clinical trials. This will allow pharmaceutical companies to better understand the situation at the medical institutions as well as the distribution of patients during the planning phase of the clinical trial, and significantly optimize the clinical trial design process.Medical institutions will also be able to quickly access information about clinical trials in which patients are able to participate through Paradigm’s clinical trial platform, making it easier for medical institutions to encourage patients to participate in clinical trials at the appropriate time.Fujitsu will launch these solutions starting in September 2024, beginning with providing support to core clinical research hospitals.2. Providing Patient-centric Clinical Trials, a New Offering for Optimizing Clinical Trial Workflows through a Specialized LLMIn Japan, the hundreds of clinical trial-related documents that pharmaceutical companies need to produce to develop a new drug are still being created and managed manually. However, by using its LLM specialized for clinical trials, Fujitsu will offer a service that can automatically create these documents and ensure that they are in compliance with regulations. This service will be provided in Japan as the Patient-centric Clinical Trials offering as part of its Healthy Living portfolio.In conducting a PoC of this offering with a pharmaceutical company, the LLM was able to automatically create approximately 80% of each document. According to Fujitsu’s estimates, this is expected to lead to a reduction in the total time required to create documentation of up to 50%. Through this offering, Fujitsu aims to make a significant contribution to optimizing the clinical trial planning and implementation workflow.Future PlansFujitsu will work to accelerate the digitalization of the clinical trial environment in Japan by providing total support for the entire clinical trial process, including planning and implementation. Through these efforts, Fujitsu aims to create the groundwork for increasing the number of global clinical trials conducted in Japan, solve the issue of drug loss and contribute to achieving a society in which all individuals can choose to live their lives in the way that suits them.Statement from Kent Thoelke, CEO of Paradigm Health, Inc.Paradigm is excited to be partnering with Fujitsu to maximize clinical trial efficiency in Japan. This collaboration will modernize the clinical trial model and provide unprecedented access to clinical trials for patients across Japan. The partnership will leverage Paradigm’s industry leading Platform and Fujitsu’s expansive healthcare solutions to increase clinical trial patient accrual, decrease overall drug development timelines and costs, while working to eliminate drug loss in Japan. We believe that this collaboration will establish Japan as an essential part of the global clinical trials and drug development ecosystem while ensuring that Japanese patients have equitable access to the best possible care options.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, Aug 26, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - TRENDE Inc., a renewable energy company that develops and provides renewable energy solutions to residential customers in Japan, announced plans to acquire ONE Energy Corporation’s renewable energy business. The acquisition includes ONE Energy’s battery storage rental, solar leasing, and rooftop solar generation businesses. The transaction is expected to close on October 1, 2024.Considering the numerous environmental risks posed by climate change, the transition to renewable energy sources is advancing with the goal of creating a low-carbon society. However, one significant challenge remains: stabilizing the electricity supply generated from renewable sources. To address this issue, battery storage systems are emerging as a vital solution, enabling the widespread adoption of renewable energy. This development underscores the need for more competitive and efficient energy services to support this transition.TRENDE is developing a battery storage and solar power system leasing business called "Teraris." The company anticipates synergies in providing similar services to ONE Energy's customers, leading to the decision to acquire the business. TRENDE plans to introduce ONE Energy's customers to the "Teraris" solar power system leasing, as well as the home battery storage system series "Smart Star." The "Smart Star" system enables remote charge and discharge control using AI "Grid Share" technology.In the future, TRENDE aims to introduce peer-to-peer (P2P) electricity trading technology. This innovative approach allows customers to buy and sell excess solar energy directly with each other, creating a decentralized energy marketplace. By incorporating P2P trading, TRENDE can further optimize the use of renewable energy and provide additional value to its customers.The acquisition of ONE Energy's business and the integration of "Teraris" and "Smart Star" systems will enable TRENDE to offer a comprehensive suite of renewable energy solutions to a wider customer base. This strategic move aligns with the growing demand for clean energy and energy storage systems, driven by the need for sustainable and reliable power sources.About TRENDETRENDE Inc. is a renewable energy company that develops and provides renewable energy solutions to residential customers in Japan via its Teraris (https://teraris.jp/) service website. TRENDE’s mission is to accelerate the widespread adoption of renewable energy and redefine the energy ecosystem in Japan with a customer-centric business model and innovative P2P platform. The company’s investors include Itochu, Idemitsu and Dubai Electricity and Water Authority. For more information, please visit http://trende.jp/.For inquiries, please contact:TRENDE Inc.Email: pr@trende.jp Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Toyota City, Japan, Aug 23, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing aims to maintain momentum in its challenge for FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) titles when the 2024 season moves to Austin, Texas for the Lone Star Le Mans at the Circuit of the Americas on 1 September.An accomplished victory in São Paulo in the last round sees TOYOTA GAZOO Racing just four points behind leaders Porsche in a hard-fought battle for the manufacturers’ World Championship heading to the United States for round six of the season.Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi and Nyck de Vries showed the pace of their #7 GR010 HYBRID by earning pole position and leading the early stages in São Paulo before a technical issue saw them finish fourth. They will challenge for their second victory of the year in Austin, where the team has yet to win in six attempts.Out front in Brazil, reigning World Champions Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley and Ryo Hirakawa won for the first time this season in their #8 GR010 HYBRID. That victory ensured Sébastien, who is tied with Brendon with the most titles on four, set a new record of 25 WEC race wins.The heat of a Texan summer awaits the team and drivers at the 5.513km Circuit of the Americas in the six-hour Lone Star Le Mans race, which returns to the WEC calendar for the first time since 2020.TOYOTA GAZOO Racing has a best finish of second place in its six visits so far to Texas, achieved in 2013 and 2020, while Brendon has won the race three times. Although the team has yet to taste victory in Austin, it has achieved two wins in the United States, at Sebring in 2019 and 2023.The Circuit of the Americas is, like Interlagos last time out, an anti-clockwise track, characterised by the steep hill up to turn one followed by a sequence of sweeping, fast corners which create a spectacular opening sector.The team made an early start to its preparations for next week’s race with a three-day test in Austin at the end of July. Preparations step up a gear when track action starts on Friday 30 August with three hours of free practice in the afternoon split over two sessions. After a one-hour final practice on Saturday morning, the starting order will be decided during qualifying and Hyperpole, starting at 3.40pm local time (10.40pm CEST). The seventh Lone Star Le Mans race starts at 1pm (8pm CEST) on Sunday 1 September.For more information, visit https://toyotagazooracing.com/wec/release/2024/rd06-preview/. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, Aug 23, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi Energy, a global technology leader, is launching a new technology that will tackle emissions of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), 80 percent of which come from the power sector.Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) is widely used in switchgear, the critical components protecting our power grids anddelivering the energy transition in a time of extraordinary grid expansion. It is 24,300 times more climate-hostile than CO2 and remains in the atmosphere for over a thousand years – much longer than CO2, which lasts less than 200years. Overall, it makes up 220 million tons of CO2 equivalent or 0.6 percent of global emissions. To put it intoperspective, this exceeds the equivalent of 50 typical coal power plants.While high industry standards mean that leaks are minor and accidental releases of SF6 rare, private stakeholders and regulators alike are reluctant to continue using SF6, a gas they see as a significant environmental threat and liability.To help the power sector tackle this huge problem, Hitachi Energy has launched the world's highest voltage SF6-freeswitchgear – the EconiQTM 550 kV circuit breaker that can be used in gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) or dead tankbreakers (DTB) and the EconiQ 420 kV Live Tank Breaker (LTA).This equipment will replace SF6 switchgear around the world, including in China, which is the source of 57 percent of the global SF6 emissions. Each new 550 kV GIS substation using EconiQ eliminates the carbon equivalent of 170 fully booked jumbo jets flying from Paris to New York while retaining the size, performance, and reliability levels oftraditional switchgear.Markus Heimbach, Executive Vice President and Managing Director of the High Voltage Products business unit at Hitachi Energy said: "It's hard to overstate the critical role that this little-known gas plays in keeping the lights on – it has been as central to building our modern world as steel and concrete.""This makes SF6 exceptionally challenging to phase out. The industry can only overcome the dual challenges of strict SF6 regulations and rising transmission demands with solutions that eliminate this gas without sacrificing size or performance. Our new EconiQ technology is the first to meet this critical need. Hitachi Energy is the first to have come up with sustainable products for this voltage level, where the largest portion of SF6 is used.”"As the world shifts to a sustainable energy future, so must power systems. With switchgear typically in service for 40years, it's important to act fast, as decisions taken today will determine the success of Net Zero in 2050."As the industry's only SF6-free solution for these voltage ratings, Hitachi Energy's new offerings maintain the samefootprint, dimensions, compatibility, lifespan, safety, reliability, and efficiency as traditional SF6 equipment. This allowsutilities and operators to plan SF6 phaseout roadmaps, enabling them to swap components, retrofit or replace oldswitchgear and install new ones with no new construction requirements, and with only minor technical changes and minor new training needs.Around 1,300 tons of SF6 is used in the UK's network of substations alone, with more than 10,000 tons used in the European Union. This leaves power grid operators to focus on two pressing challenges: delivering the energy transition and addressing climate change. The former demands a rapid expansion of grid infrastructure like switchgear, while the latter necessitates an urgent phaseout of SF6.The European Union has already implemented a strict phaseout and banned SF6 in medium and high-voltage switchgear by 2030 and 2032, respectively. The UK and USA are preparing similar regulations.SF6-free switchgear in actionBoth new EconiQ products have pilot orders confirmed and form part of ambitious climate commitments from utilities, demonstrating the need for SF6-free products at this voltage.TenneT, the Dutch-German transmission system operator responsible for over 25,000 km of high-voltage lines and cables, has placed an order for Hitachi Energy's new EconiQ 420 kV LTA. TenneT plans to use the new infrastructureto support its ambition of reducing grid losses, along with the climate impact of its own operations.SSEN Transmission, one of Europe’s fastest growing network businesses with ambitious plans to invest £20 billion inthe north of Scotland electricity transmission network to support UK and Scottish energy security and clean powertargets, has placed an order for the new generation EconiQ 420 kV LTA. The new order supports the company's strategy to no longer install equipment containing SF6 wherever viable. These are part of the company’s wider decarbonization ambitions, having been the world’s first transmission network accredited by the Science Based Target initiative for its carbon reduction targets, which are consistent with Net Zero pathways.Rob McDonald, Managing Director of SSEN Transmission, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Hitachi Energyand order some of the world's first SF6-free 420 kV AIS circuit breakers, which is a testament to our position as a leader in the adoption of SF6 alternatives. The use of the technology is a key enabler to ensure we meet our ambitious grid expansions plans for 2030 and beyond, as well as our science-based carbon reduction target. The equipment will be used for a substation upgrade project in the north of Scotland which will reinforce the local network and allow for the connection of several onshore wind farms, contributing to UK Net Zero targets."In North America, where the 550 kV voltage is common, two customers have also placed orders for the new EconiQ 550 kV DTB, Hydro One and Wesco.Hydro One Limited, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, is Ontario's largest electricity transmission anddistribution provider with approximately 1.5 million valued customers,approximately $32.8 billion in assets as of December 31, 2023, and annual revenues in 2023 of approximately $7.8 billion. Hydro One expects this partnership to contribute to its climate change mitigation initiatives to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.Wesco is based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and has remained committed to powering progress around the world since the rise of electrification in the early 1900s to the digital revolution of today, delivering ingenuity and expertise to approximately 150,000 customers worldwide. The EconiQ eco-efficient 550 kV dead tank breaker will enable Wesco to fulfill its customers ambitious sustainability goals for 2030 and beyond.Jim Cameron, Wesco’s Executive Vice President and General Manager of its Utility and Broadband Solutions business unit, emphasized Wesco’s dual commitment to sustainability. He stated, “We are dedicated to minimizing the environmental impact of our operations and assisting our customers in achieving their sustainability goals. Thegroundbreaking technology of Hitachi Energy’s EconiQ 550 breaker, which reduces SF6 emissions, aligns perfectly with our corporate sustainability charter. We are proud to be part of the first installation in North America.”About Hitachi EnergyHitachi Energy is a global technology leader that is advancing a sustainable energy future for all. We are advancing the world’s energy system to be more sustainable, flexible and secure and we collaborate with customers and partners to enable a sustainable energy future – for today’s generations and those to come. Hitachi Energy has a proven track record and unparalleled installed base in more than 140 countries, serving customers in utility, industry, transportation, data centers and infrastructure sectors. With innovative technologies and services including the integration of more than 150 gigawatts of HVDC links into the power system, we help make the energy value chain more efficient, making electricity more accessible to all. Together with stakeholders across sectors and geographies, we enable the digital transformation required to accelerate the energy transition towards a carbon-neutral future. Headquartered in Switzerland, we employ around 45,000 people in 90 countries and generate business volumes of around $13 billion USD.www.hitachienergy.com www.linkedin.com/company/hitachienergyhttps://twitter.com/HitachiEnergyAbout Hitachi, Ltd.Hitachi drives Social Innovation Business, creating a sustainable society through the use of data and technology. We solve customers' and society's challenges with Lumada solutions leveraging IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products. Hitachi operates under the 3 business sectors of "Digital Systems & Services" – supporting our customers' digital transformation; "Green Energy & Mobility" – contributing to a decarbonized society through energy and railwaysystems, and "Connective Industries" – connecting products through digital technology to provide solutions in variousindustries. Driven by Digital, Green, and Innovation, we aim for growth through co-creation with our customers. The company's revenues as 3 sectors for fiscal year 2023 (ended March 31, 2024) totaled 8,564.3 billion yen, with 573 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 270,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at www.hitachi.com. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Aug 22, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi High-Tech Corporation announced today the global launch of TM4000PlusIII and TM4000III Tabletop Microscopes equipped with support features for automation and stable operation.The TM Series shrinks the electron microscope to a size capable of being mounted on a tabletop. Thanks to theircompact size and ease of installation, desktop microscopes are widely used not only for R&D, but also in quality controlat manufacturing sites, science education at schools, and other purposes. In manufacturing environments in particular, there is a need to increase the efficiency of observation tasks and streamline operations so that even users with limited expertise can easily observe a large number of samples.The TM4000PlusIII is equipped with automation support features that enable users to create recipes for numerous conditions. Recipes can control functions such as stage position adjustment and magnification, which previouslyneeded to be manually configured every time for each sample. In addition, they come equipped with maintenance features designed to facilitate consistent observation. One such function is a monitoring system that checks the condition of the tungsten filament* and graphically reports its condition. Since tungsten filaments require regular replacement, this function allows users to track the filament lifetime and plan ahead with maintenance tasks to allow for smooth and consistent operation of the tool.*Tungsten filaments: A single part used in the electron gun of an electron microscope. They are typically made by bending a thin wire made of tungsten (element symbol: W), which is a highly heat-resistant metal, into a hairpin-like shape and connecting it to an electrode. The tungsten filament emits an electron beam when heated.Product Development BackgroundBecause the TM Series makes it possible to conduct high-precision observation and analysis, even when installationspace is limited, it has come to be a critical tool during the development and quality control of new materials. Recently, the TM Series has contributed to conserving the environment and maintaining people’s health by being used to develop environmentally friendly materials and their manufacturing processes, as well as analyze harmful substances in the atmosphere. In manufacturing environments, the trend of decreasing feature size and stricter quality control has led to an increase in the number of SEM users. However, not all new users have specialized knowledge and operatingskills. Amidst this trend, we developed the TM4000PlusIII and TM4000III to have this sought-after optimization and simplification of observation tasks for the purposes of enabling the acquisition of high-precision data without any variability, regardless of who is operating the microscope or their level of expertise.Key Features1. Making Tasks More EfficientThe automation support feature with the TM4000PlusIII allows for observation procedures, such as stage movement, magnification changes, and imaging, to be saved as recipes. They can then be executed to run automatically with a single click. This makes operations more efficient and standardizes techniques among users. This is beneficial for those looking to automate routine tasks and for users who are concerned about having to manually configure observation conditions.The TM4000PlusIII also features a setting for high-current mode which enables faster operations due to the increasedobservation signal. For example, in particle analysis a large number of measurement points are required which can bevery time consuming to collect. The high-current function shortens measurement time for each location while reducing the overall time involved in such tasks.2. Plan Ahead with the Filament Monitoring FunctionThe microscopes come equipped with new support features to ensure they can be used with peace of mind at all times. One example is the filament indicator feature, which allows users to track the filament life on screen, preventinginstances of observations being interrupted due to filament replacements occurring mid-observation.3. Ideal for Educational PurposesThe TM Series is equipped with low-vacuum and high-sensitivity backscattered electron detectors, which eliminate the need for complicated pretreatment processes. This makes it possible to conduct observations on a variety of sampleswith ease, enabling the TM Series to be utilized in educational settings.Additionally, as digital skill development becomes a critical subject in educational settings, the TM4000PlusIII allowusers to experience and learn important programming concepts such as “sequential execution,” “repetition,” and “conditional branching” via the automation support features.The TM4000PlusIII and TM4000III will be exhibited at JASIS 2024 at the Makuhari Messe International ExhibitionHalls in Chiba, Japan, from September 4 through September 6, 2024.Hitachi High-Tech aims to ship a target total of 6,000 TM Series units across the global market as quickly as possible to contribute to manufacturing worldwide. Hitachi High-Tech will continue to refine our core analysis technologies, and provide measurement and inspection solutions that support R&D and quality control operations in a wide range of fields, in order to help improve people's QoL (Quality of Life) and to resolve social issues related to the environment, resilience, and security and safety.About Hitachi High-TechHitachi High-Tech, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is engaged in activities in a broad range of fields, includingmanufacture 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 www.hitachi-hightech.com/global/en/Business Contact:Takeshi KamimuraGlobal Sales Planning Dept.Beam Technology & Analytical Systems Business Div., Core Technology & Solutions Business GroupHitachi High-Tech CorporationEmail: takeshi.kamimura.jj@hitachi-hightech.com Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO and CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Aug 22, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. and Biogen Inc.announced today that the humanized amyloid-beta(Aβ) monoclonal antibody “Leqembi®” (brand name, generic name: lecanemab) has been granted a Marketing Authorization by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in Great Britain.1 Lecanemab is indicated for the treatmentof mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in adult patients that are apolipoprotein Eε4 (ApoE ε4)* heterozygotes or non-carriers.1 Lecanemab becomes the first treatment for early AD (MCI and mild dementia due to AD)2 that targets an underlying cause of the disease, to be authorized in a country in Europe.1Lecanemab selectively binds to Aβ aggregate species, with preferential activity for toxic Aβ protofibrils** (as well as fibrils, which are a major component of Aβ plaques).2,3,4 It binds to these aggregate Aβ species to neutralize and clear them from the brain.2,3,4The approval was primarily based on Phase 3 data from Eisai’s global, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group, randomized Clarity AD clinical trial, in which the medicine met its primary endpoint (change from baseline in the Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes [CDR-SB]† at 18 months) and all key secondary endpoints with statistically significant results.2 Inthe indicated population in Great Britain, the most common adverse reactions were infusion-related reaction, amyloid-related imaging abnormalities with hemorrhage (small spots of bleeding) (ARIA-H)‡, fall, headache and amyloid-related imaging abnormalities with cerebral edema (build-up of fluid) (ARIA-E)‡‡.1In the United Kingdom, it is estimated that 982,000 people are living with dementia,5 and AD is the cause in 60-70% of people with dementia.6 These numbers are expected to rise, as the population ages.5,6Eisai is working collaboratively with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) and the National Health Service (NHS) to make this medicine available to eligible people living with early AD as soon as possible.Eisai serves as the lead for lecanemab’s development and regulatory submissions globally with Eisai and Biogen co-commercializing and co-promoting the product and Eisai having final decision-making authority. In Great Britain, Eisai and Biogen will co-promote the medicine, with Eisai distributing the product as the Marketing Authorization holder.*Apolipoprotein E is a protein involved in the metabolism of fats in humans. It is implicated in AD.**Protofibrils are thought to be the most toxic Aβ species that contribute to brain damage in AD and play a major role in the cognitive decline of this progressive and devastating disease. Protofibrils can cause neuronal damage in the brain, which can subsequently adversely affect cognitive function through multiple mechanisms. 7 The mechanism by which this occurs has been reported not only by increasing the formation of insoluble Aβ plaques, but also by directly damaging signaling between neurons and other cells. It is believed that reducing protofibrils may reduce neuronal damage and cognitive impairment, potentially preventing the progression of AD.8†CDR-SB is a commonly used diagnostic tool, which can help to stage dementia due to AD.9 It is a global cognitive and functional scale that measures six domains of functioning, including memory, orientation, judgement and problem solving, community affairs, home and hobbies, and personal care.9‡ARIA-H: amyloid-related imaging abnormalities with hemorrhage (microhemorrhages, and superficial siderosis).‡‡ARIA-E: amyloid-related imaging abnormalities with oedema (edema/effusion).More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval.MEDIA CONTACTSEisai Co., Ltd.Public Relations Department TEL: +81 (0)3-3817-5120Eisai Europe, Ltd.EMEA Communications Department+44 (0) 7974-879-419Emea-comms@eisai.netBiogen Inc.Jack Cox+ 1-781-464-3260public.affairs@biogen.comEisai Inc. (U.S.)Libby Holman1-201-753-1945Libby_Holman@eisai.comINVESTOR CONTACTSEisai Co., Ltd.Investor Relations Department TEL: +81 (0) 3-3817-5122Biogen Inc.Chuck Triano+ 1-781-464-2442IR@biogen.comAbout lecanemab (Leqembi®)Lecanemab is the result of a strategic research alliance between Eisai and BioArctic. It is a humanized immunoglobulin gamma1 (IgG1) monoclonal antibody directed against aggregated soluble (protofibril) and insoluble forms of amyloid-beta (Aβ).2,3Lecanemab’s approval in Great Britain was primarily based on Phase 3 data from Eisai’s global Clarity AD clinical trial, in which it met its primary endpoint and all key secondary endpoints with statistically significant results.1,2 Clarity AD was a Phase 3global, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group, randomized study in 1,795 patients with early AD (MCI or milddementia due to AD, with confirmedpresence of amyloid pathology), of which 1,521 were in the indicated population in the label in Great Britain (ApoE ε4heterozygotes or non-carriers).1 Of the total number of patients randomized 31% were non-carriers, 53% were heterozygotes and 16% were homozygotes.1 The treatment group was administered lecanemab 10 mg/kg bi-weekly, with participants allocated in a 1:1 ratio to receive either placebo or lecanemab for 18 months.1The primary endpoint was the global cognitive and functional scale, CDR-SB.1 In the Clarity AD clinical trial, treatment with lecanemab, in the indicated population in Great Britain (ApoE ε4 heterozygotes or non-carriers), reduced clinical decline on CDR-SB by 33% at 18 months compared to placebo.1 The mean CDR-SB score at baseline was approximately 3.2 in both groups.1 The adjusted least-squares mean change from baseline at 18 months was 1.15 with lecanemab and 1.73 with placebo(difference, −0.58; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.81 to −0.34; P