Category: JCN Newswire

TOKYO & JAKARTA, Dec 6, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - JCB Co., Ltd., has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kobe Tourism Bureau to promote inbound tourism. This partnership will strengthen the response to inbound demand mainly from affluent customers, primarily in the rapidly growing Indonesian market as a trial.Partnership OverviewBased on this memorandum, JCB and the Kobe Tourism Bureau will develop comprehensive tourism promotion strategies.Specifically, JCB and the Kobe Tourism Bureau will begin marketing trial initiatives aimed at stimulating consumption in Kobe with JCB Cards issued in Indonesia in January 2025. The partnership will offer special benefit programs at luxury hotels and traditional Japanese restaurants in Kobe, and it will gradually introduce exclusive benefits for JCB cardmembers at famous tourist spots in Kobe. Through these efforts, JCB and the Kobe Tourism Bureau aim to create added value for Japanese enthusiasts in Indonesia and improve their satisfaction during their stay in Kobe.In addition, the partnership will conduct behavioral analysis of inbound tourists using statistical data* on the consumption patterns of JCB cardmembers. Based on this information, JCB and the Kobe Tourism Bureau will effectively promote Kobe's attractions to Indonesian JCB cardmembers and work to build a model that strengthens the response to inbound demand through collaboration between the local government and the private sector.*Statistical data includes information on JCB Cards issued in Indonesia and other overseas markets, including card usage areas, industries and the amount of card transactions made in Kobe City.Background of the MemorandumIn recent years, Indonesia has seen remarkable economic development with a rapidly growing affluent class and increasing interest in high-quality tourism to Japan. JCB has been developing unique services with the slogan "SUGOI JAPAN", including 3 categories "VISIT JAPAN", "JCB DAY", and "JAPAN DINING".This partnership will further develop these initiatives by combining the Kobe Tourism Bureau's tourism promotion strategies with JCB's payment platform. JCB will work closely with the Kobe Tourism Bureau to enhance convenience and stimulate consumption by tourists from Indonesia. By maximizing the knowledge and networks of both parties, JCB and the Kobe Tourism Bureau will contribute to Kobe's tourism promotion and sustainable economic development. In addition, JCB aims to become a leading payment brand by developing unique Japanese value propositions with the slogan "SUGOI JAPAN".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/ ContactAnna TakedaCorporate CommunicationsTel: +81-3-5778-8353Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO & JAKARTA, Dec 6, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - JCB Co., Ltd., has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kobe Tourism Bureau to promote inbound tourism. This partnership will strengthen the response to inbound demand mainly from affluent customers, primarily in the rapidly growing Indonesian market as a trial.Partnership OverviewBased on this memorandum, JCB and the Kobe Tourism Bureau will develop comprehensive tourism promotion strategies.Specifically, JCB and the Kobe Tourism Bureau will begin marketing trial initiatives aimed at stimulating consumption in Kobe with JCB Cards issued in Indonesia in January 2025. The partnership will offer special benefit programs at luxury hotels and traditional Japanese restaurants in Kobe, and it will gradually introduce exclusive benefits for JCB cardmembers at famous tourist spots in Kobe. Through these efforts, JCB and the Kobe Tourism Bureau aim to create added value for Japanese enthusiasts in Indonesia and improve their satisfaction during their stay in Kobe.In addition, the partnership will conduct behavioral analysis of inbound tourists using statistical data* on the consumption patterns of JCB cardmembers. Based on this information, JCB and the Kobe Tourism Bureau will effectively promote Kobe's attractions to Indonesian JCB cardmembers and work to build a model that strengthens the response to inbound demand through collaboration between the local government and the private sector.*Statistical data includes information on JCB Cards issued in Indonesia and other overseas markets, including card usage areas, industries and the amount of card transactions made in Kobe City.Background of the MemorandumIn recent years, Indonesia has seen remarkable economic development with a rapidly growing affluent class and increasing interest in high-quality tourism to Japan. JCB has been developing unique services with the slogan "SUGOI JAPAN", including 3 categories "VISIT JAPAN", "JCB DAY", and "JAPAN DINING".This partnership will further develop these initiatives by combining the Kobe Tourism Bureau's tourism promotion strategies with JCB's payment platform. JCB will work closely with the Kobe Tourism Bureau to enhance convenience and stimulate consumption by tourists from Indonesia. By maximizing the knowledge and networks of both parties, JCB and the Kobe Tourism Bureau will contribute to Kobe's tourism promotion and sustainable economic development. In addition, JCB aims to become a leading payment brand by developing unique Japanese value propositions with the slogan "SUGOI JAPAN".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/ ContactAnna TakedaCorporate CommunicationsTel: +81-3-5778-8353Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO and CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Dec 5, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. and Biogen Inc. announced today that the Federal Commission forthe Protection Against Sanitary Risk (COFEPRIS) in Mexico has approved humanized anti-soluble aggregated amyloid-beta (Aβ) monoclonal antibody “LEQEMBI®” (lecanemab) for the treatment of early Alzheimer’s disease (AD)*.LEQEMBI selectively binds to soluble Aβ aggregates (protofibrils**), as well as insoluble Aβ aggregates (fibrils) which are amajor component of Aβ plaques, thereby reducing both Aβ protofibrils and Aβ plaques in the brain. LEQEMBI is the first approved treatment shown to reduce the rate of disease progression and to slow cognitive and functional decline through this mechanism. LEQEMBI is also approved and being marketed in the U.S., Japan, China, South Korea, Hong Kong, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Great Britain.LEQEMBI’s approval is based on the large global Phase 3 Clarity AD study. In the Clarity AD study,LEQEMBI met its primary endpoint and all key secondary endpoints with statistically significant results.(1),(2)Approximately 1.3 million people in Mexico are estimated to suffer from AD, accounting for 60-70% of all dementia diagnoses.3 AD most commonly affects individuals over the age of 65.(3)Eisai serves as the lead of LEQEMBI development and regulatory submissions globally with both Eisai and Biogen co-commercializing and co-promoting the product and Eisai having final decision-making authority. Eisai and Biogen will co-commercialize and co-promote LEQEMBI in Mexico.*Collectively referred to mild cognitive impairment due to AD or mild AD dementia.**Protofibrils are believed to contribute to the brain injury that occurs with AD and are considered to be the most toxic form of Aβ, having a primary role in the cognitive decline associated with this progressive, debilitating condition.(4) Protofibrils cause injury toneurons in the brain, which in turn, can negatively impact cognitive function via multiple mechanisms, not only increasing the development of insoluble Aβ plaques but also increasing direct damage to brain cell membranes and the connections that transmit signals between nerve cells or nerve cells and other cells. It is believed the reduction of protofibrils may prevent the progression of AD by reducing damage to neurons in the brain and cognitive dysfunction.(5)About lecanemab (LEQEMBI®)Lecanemab is the result of a strategic research alliance between Eisai and BioArctic. It is a humanized immunoglobulingamma 1 (IgG1) monoclonal antibody directed against aggregated soluble (protofibril) and insoluble forms of amyloid-beta (Aβ).Lecanemab is approved and being marketed in the U.S., Japan, China, South Korea, Hong Kong, Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Great Britain for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) ormild dementia stage of disease (collectively referred to as early AD). The treatment’s approvals in these countries was based onPhase 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 The most common adverse events (>10%) in the lecanemab group were infusion reactions,ARIA-H (combined cerebral microhemorrhages, cerebral macrohemorrhages, and superficial siderosis), ARIA-E (edema/effusion), headache, and fall.Lecanemab is under regulatory review in 16 countries and regions, including the European Union. In November 2024, thetreatment received a positive opinion from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) recommending approval.Since July 2020 the Phase 3 clinical study (AHEAD 3-45) for individuals with preclinical AD, meaning they are clinically normaland have intermediate or elevated levels of amyloid in their brains, is ongoing. AHEAD 3-45 is conducted as a public-private partnership between the Alzheimer's Clinical Trial Consortium that provides the infrastructure for academic clinical trials in AD and related dementias in the U.S, funded by the National Institute on Aging, part of the National Institutes of Health, Eisai and Biogen. Since January 2022, the Tau NexGen clinical study for Dominantly Inherited AD (DIAD), that is conducted by Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network Trials Unit (DIAN-TU), led by Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is ongoing and includes lecanemab as the backbone anti- amyloid therapy.About the Collaboration between Eisai and Biogen for ADEisai and Biogen have been collaborating on the joint development and commercialization of AD treatments since 2014. Eisaiserves as the lead of lecanemab development and regulatory submissions globally with Eisai and Biogen co-commercializingand co-promoting the product and Eisai having final decision-making authority.About the Collaboration between Eisai and BioArctic for ADSince 2005, Eisai and BioArctic have had a long-term collaboration regarding the development and commercialization of AD treatments. Eisai obtained the global rights to study, develop, manufacture and market lecanemab for the treatment of AD pursuant to an agreement with BioArctic in December 2007. The development and commercialization agreement on the antibody lecanemab back-up was signed in May 2015.About Eisai Co., Ltd.Eisai's Corporate Concept is "to give first thought to patients and people in the daily living domain, and to increase the benefits that health care provides." Under this Concept (also known as human health care (hhc) Concept), we aim to effectively achieve social good in the form of relieving anxiety over health and reducing health disparities. With a global network of R&Dfacilities, manufacturing sites and marketing subsidiaries, we strive to create and deliver innovative products to target diseaseswith high unmet medical needs, with a particular focus in our strategic areas of Neurology and Oncology.In addition, we demonstrate our commitment to the elimination of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), which is a target (3.3) of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), by working on various activities together with global partners.For more information about Eisai, please visit www.eisai.com (for global headquarters: Eisai. Co., Ltd.), us.eisai.com (for U.S.headquarters: Eisai, Inc.) or www.eisai.eu (for Europe, Middle East, Africa, Russia, Australia and New Zealand headquarters:Eisai Europe Ltd.), and connect with us on X (global and U.S), LinkedIn (for global, U.S. and EMEA) and Facebook (global).About BiogenFounded in 1978, Biogen is a leading biotechnology company that pioneers innovative science to deliver new medicines to transform patients’ lives and to create value for shareholders and our communities. We apply deep understanding of human biology and leverage different modalities to advance first-in-class treatments or therapies that deliver superior outcomes. Our approach is to take bold risks, balanced with return on investment to deliver long-term growth.The company routinely posts information that may be important to investors on its website at www.biogen.com.Follow Biogen on social media – Facebook, LinkedIn, X, YouTube.Biogen Safe HarborThis news release contains forward-looking statements, about the potential clinical effects of lecanemab; the potential benefits, safety and efficacy of lecanemab; potential regulatory discussions, submissions and approvals and the timing thereof;the treatment of Alzheimer's disease; the anticipated benefits and potential of Biogen's collaboration arrangements with Eisai; the potential of Biogen's commercial business and pipeline programs, including lecanemab; and risks and uncertainties associated with drug development and commercialization. These statements may be identified by words such as "aim," "anticipate," "believe," "could," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "intend," "may," "plan," "possible," "potential," "will," "would" and other words and terms of similar meaning. Drug development and commercialization involve a high degree of risk, andonly a small number of research and development programs result in commercialization of a product. Results in early-stage clinical studies may not be indicative of full results or results from later stage or larger scale clinical studies and do not ensure regulatory approval. You should not place undue reliance on these statements.These statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in suchstatements, including without limitation unexpected concerns that may arise from additional data, analysis or results obtained during clinical studies; the occurrence of adverse safety events; risks of unexpected costs or delays; the risk of other unexpected hurdles; regulatory submissions may take longer or be more difficultto complete than expected; regulatory authorities may require additional information or further studies, or may fail or refuse toapprove or may delay approval of Biogen's drug candidates, including lecanemab; actual timing and content of submissions to and decisions made by the regulatory authorities regarding lecanemab; uncertainty of success in the development and potential commercialization of lecanemab; failure to protect and enforce Biogen's data, intellectual property and otherproprietary rights and uncertainties relating to intellectual property claims and challenges; product liability claims; and thirdparty collaboration risks, results of operations and financial condition. The foregoing sets forth many, but not all, of the factorsthat could cause actual results to differ from Biogen's expectations in any forward-looking statement. Investors should consider this cautionary statement as well as the risk factors identified in Biogen's most recent annual or quarterly report and in otherreports Biogen has filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. Biogen does not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements.References(1) Eisai presents full results of lecanemab Phase 3 confirmatory Clarity AD study for early Alzheimer's disease at Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease (CTAD) conference. Available at: www.eisai.com/news/2022/news202285.html(2) van Dyck, H., et al. Lecanemab in Early Alzheimer’s Disease. New England Journal of Medicine. 2023;388:9-21. www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2212948(3) Secretaría de Salud. Enfermedad de Alzheimer, demencia más común que afecta a personas adultas mayores. Oct 2021. https://tinyurl.com/ttv486xx(4) Amin L, Harris DA. Aβ receptors specifically recognize molecular features displayed by fibril ends and neurotoxic oligomers. Nat Commun. 2021;12:3451. doi:10.1038/s41467-021-23507-z(5) Ono K, Tsuji M. Protofibrils of Amyloid-β are Important Targets of a Disease-Modifying Approach for Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci. 2020;21(3):952. doi: 10.3390/ijms21030952. PMID: 32023927; PMCID: PMC7037706.MEDIA CONTACTSEisai Co., Ltd.Public Relations Department TEL : +81 (0)3-3817-5120INVESTOR CONTACTSEisai Co., Ltd.Investor Relations Department TEL: +81 (0) 3-3817-5122Biogen Inc.Jack Cox+ 1-781-464-3260public.affairs@biogen.comBiogen Inc.Stephen Amato+ 1-781-464-2442IR@biogen.com Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

KARIYA, JAPAN, Dec 4, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - DENSO Corporation has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Canatu to advance the practical application of carbon nanotube technology. By strengthening their partnership, the two companies aim to deepen their collaboration to contribute to the advancement of autonomous driving technology and the realization of carbon neutrality.As autonomous driving technology continues to evolve, vehicles must accurately detect their surroundings using cameras and other sensors. However, issues such as frost and condensation can obstruct visibility and complicate detection. To address these challenges, DENSO is developing products that utilize transparent conductive films made from flexible, transparent materials. Carbon nanotube technology is key to these developments.Carbon nanotubes are carbon-based materials with extremely fine structures, characterized by high strength, light weight, and excellent electrical and thermal conductivity. They hold great promise for a wide range of applications. Canatu has innovative technology that enables the efficient production of high-purity carbon nanotubes using proprietary materials and has strengths in transparent conductive film formation.DENSO has been collaborating with Canatu by combining Canatu’s advanced transparent conductive film technology with DENSO’s expertise in automotive technology and mass production. In April this year, the companies successfully developed a reactor* at Canatu’s production facility in Finland, significantly enhancing the productivity of carbon nanotubes. They have also been jointly developing transparent heaters for vehicle cameras and windshields. Moving forward, DENSO and Canatu will continue to drive efforts toward the commercialization of transparent heaters while also expand their application to environmental technologies. Their goal is to establish technologies that contribute to carbon neutrality.Key Areas of CollaborationDENSO and Canatu will accelerate initiatives in the following three areas to achieve practical applications of carbon nanotube technology:1. Research and DevelopmentDevelop new applications, including transparent heaters and solar power technologies, utilizing carbon nanotubes.2. Mass Production TechnologiesCollaborate on improving manufacturing equipment and processes to achieve the quality required for mass production.3. Global Supply Chain DevelopmentBegin exploring the establishment of a reliable supply system to ensure the stable and consistent delivery of high-quality products.DENSO will continue advancing technology development in collaboration with partners across various fields, contributing to sustainable mobility for people and the planet.*Reactor: Equipment used for manufacturing carbon nanotubes. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Dec 3, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. and its rugby team, MIE Honda HEAT, today held a rally event at the Aoyama Welcome Plaza in the Honda Global Head Office in Tokyo, ahead of the NTT Japan Rugby League One 2024-2025 season, which begins on Saturday, December 21, 2024.At the event, Manabu Ozawa, a Managing Executive Officer of Honda concurrently serving as Executive Advisor of MIE Honda HEAT, introduced the Honda vision for its sports activities – to increase the number of people who take on challenges through sports activities and make the lives of all people more enjoyable. He also announced the MIE Honda HEAT team value – “BIND” All Dreams – which was newly established in the pursuit of the team’s vision to become “the strongest, most respected, most loved” team. The “team value” represents the team’s desire to “take on challenges and chase dreams together with all people involved with MIE Honda HEAT.”Other key staff members and players on the team who expressed their strong passion and commitment for the upcoming season included Head Coach Kieran Crowley, General Manager Yoshihito Maeda, the new captain Takumi Fujii, and other key players, including Lemeki Lomano Lava, who returned to the team for the first time in four years. The MIE Honda HEAT was founded in 1961, as the Honda rugby team based in the City of Suzuka, in Mie Prefecture, Japan. Since last season (2023-2024 season), the team has been taking on challenges competing in Division 1, the top division of the Japan Rugby League One. Working toward its goal to become the No. 1 team in Japan in three years’ time, the MIE Honda HEAT has been pursuing continuous initiatives to enhance its strength. In the meantime, in September of this year, the team announced its plan to relocate the base of activities to Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture sometime prior to the start of the 2026-2027 season, in order to offer more people the opportunity to see the team and get involved in its challenges toward its goal.Based on the company’s vision for its sports activities, Honda will continue to support various athletes who take on challenges toward the realization of their own dreams.Comment of Manabu Ozawa, Managing Executive Officer of Honda Motor Co., Ltd.“Honda sports teams, including the Honda Running Team, have inspired many people this year with their remarkable achievements, expanding their activities from Japan to the world. Our rugby team, getting ready for its second season with the new head coach Kieran Crowley, has built a team structure that reflects the strong will of Coach Crowley to achieve our goal to become the No. 1 team in Japan in three years’ time. We are committed to strengthening MIE Honda HEAT as a sports team that represents Honda corporate culture, demonstrating the collective strengths and teamwork of Honda. In two years, the team is relocating the base of its activities to Tochigi Prefecture, and will continue to strive for further growth. MIE Honda HEAT will continue to take on bold challenges and prove the power of believing in “The Power of Dreams” by playing matches that move people’s hearts. Thank you in advance for your continued support and cheers in the 2024-25 season.”Comment of Kieran Crowley, Head Coach of MIE Honda HEAT“The 2023-24 season, my first year as head coach, was a very difficult one, with only one win out of 16 games. Based on what I perceived as our challenges throughout the season, I brought in 14 new players during the off-season and also added new coaches. As a result of intense competition for positions within the team and the rigorous training experienced by all players, we have built a team with strong physical capability and the stamina to play 80 minutes at full strength. With a goal to be ranked sixth or above in the league, we will further improve our performance in the 2024-25 season, which will start soon. Please keep your expectations high for the great effort and performance of MIE Honda HEAT!”MIE Honda HEAT official website: https://www.honda-heat.jp/ (Japanese/English)Honda Sports Activity website:https://global.honda/jp/brand/sports/ (Japanese)JAPAN RUGBY LEAGUE ONE:https://league-one.jp/ (Japanese)https://league-one.jp/en/ (English) Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Dec 3, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, Ltd. (MHI Thermal Systems), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has received a Minister of the Environment Award for Climate Action 2024 for development of its JHT-Y/JHT-YI series of large-capacity centrifugal chillers adopting the HFO-1234yf refrigerant with a low GWP(1). The award, sponsored by the Japanese Ministry of the Environment, was presented in the Technological Development and Commercialization category. An awards ceremony took place in Tokyo on December 2.The Awards CeremonyThe Minister of the Environment for Climate Action Award program was renewed in 2020 to reflect recent trends in climate change measures and succeeded the Environment Minister's Awards for Global Warming Prevention Activity, which had been held since 1998. The awards are given annually to individuals or groups having made noteworthy contributions to climate change mitigation (measures to curb greenhouse gas emissions) and accommodation to climate change (measures to avert or reduce impacts from climate change). This 2024 award is MHI Thermal Systems' third to date: in 2019, the Company received an Environment Minister's Award for its high-efficiency centrifugal chiller ETI-Z series that adopt a low-GWP refrigerant(2); and in 2021, the Company garnered the award for development and promotion of an air-to-water type heat pump using a low-GWP refrigerant(3).The constant-speed JHT-Y and inverter-equipped JHT-YI are new series for large-capacity centrifugal chillers launched in June 2022. Both models in the series adopt the HFO-1234yf refrigerant with extremely low environmental impact (GWP below 1) and the capacities ranging from 300 to 5,400 refrigeration tons (RT)(4). The JHT-Y and JHT-YI are the first centrifugal chillers with capacities up to 5,400 RT commercially offered in Japan with a low-GWP refrigerant. With a newly designed compressor, outstanding efficiency has been achieved: the constant-speed model to achieve a maximum rated COP(5) of 6.4, the inverter-equipped model achieves an IPLV(6) of 8.8 and a maximum part load COP of 24.9. A smaller compressor size, together with the optimized centrifugal chiller structure layout, also contributes to the effective use of the space, enabling smooth installation from existing equipment. The replacement of an existing equipment using a higher-GWP HFC (hydrofluorocarbon) refrigerant with the JHT-YI can reduce annual energy consumption and CO2emissions by approximately 65%(7), contributing significantly to mitigating environmental impacts. The JHT-Y and JHT-YI models are also adaptable to a wide range of applications: air-conditioning, heating, as well as low-temperature and heating processes in beverage plants, etc.The HFO-1234yf refrigerant, which is also used in car air-conditioners and vending machines, has a GWP of below 1 and ODP(8) of zero, and is categorized as non-Freon refrigerant according to Japan's Revised Fluorocarbons Recovery and Destruction Law(9). For these reasons, it is not subject to this Law that regulates the Fluorocarbons' emissions into the atmosphere, recovery, and destruction after usage. Concerning an equipment with higher-GWP HFC refrigerant including HFC-134a, which was widely used before the revised legislation took effect, it has been made compulsory to reduce in both their production and usage volumes as it has a significant impact on global warming. In 2025 and onward, it is scheduled that the regulations on the supply of equipment with higher-GWP refrigerants to the market will be tightened further in the Japanese market, therefore, currently the demands for the equipment with low-GWP refrigerants, ex. the JHT-Y/JHT-YI series, are increasing and earlier upgrading is required in the market.MHI Thermal Systems is Japan's leading manufacturer of centrifugal chillers, having delivered numerous units for district cooling/heating, factory air-conditioning, etc. Going forward, the Company will continue to focus on developing high-performance products using low-GWP refrigerants covering - together with the small and medium-capacity ETI-Z series - a capacity span of 150 to 5,400 RT, as its way of contributing to environmental protection on a global scale.(1) GWP: global warming potential. CO2 is assigned a GWP of 1. The lower the GWP factor, the less impact on the environment.(2) For further information, refer to the following press release: https://www.mhi.com/news/191203.html(3) For further information, refer to the following press release: https://www.mhi.com/news/21112502.html(4) Capacity above 2,700 RT requires two compressors (parallel type).(5) COP: coefficient of performance as calculated based on Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS). The higher the COP, the higher the level of energy savings.(6) IPLV: integrated part load value, an indicator of the efficiency of an air-conditioner during part load operation. The higher the IPLV, the higher the level of energy savings.(7) Compared with our previous model (20 years ago)(8) ODP: ozone depletion potential, a coefficient expressing the relative amount of degradation to the ozone layer compared to trichlorofluoromethane (CFC-11), a refrigerant previously in wide use which has a fixed ODP of 1.0. The lower the ODP, the lower the destructive impact on the ozone layer.(9) This revised law, which took effect on April 1, 2015, stipulates rules for the rational use and proper management of fluorocarbons.JHT-Y/JHT-YI SeriesAbout 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.

KAWASAKI, Japan, Dec 3, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu today announced that it has spun out blue carbon services company BLUABLE Ltd. from its entrepreneurship program Fujitsu Innovation Circuit (FIC.) The company, established as a startup in October 2024, is the first company to be successfully generated by the program.BLUABLE has secured funding from Spinout Capital Fund No.1, a Japanese venture capital fund for corporate spinouts, in November 2024. The funds will be used to validate the product-market fit of the products and services developed.BLUABLE aims to promote carbon neutrality and contribute to the sustainability of the marine environment by providing services related to blue carbon, i.e., carbon captured and stored in the world's ocean and coastal ecosystems.A significant amount of blue carbon is stored in seaweed, and a rise in seawater temperatures has caused a loss of seaweed beds and damage to seawater quality and conditions.BLUABLE produces kits to encourage seaweed bed growth. The kits are made from a material which seaweed can easily adhere to and no heavy equipment is needed to place the kits in the ocean, saving resources as compared to current cultivation methods. In addition, BLUABLE measures the blue carbon secured through utilization of its kits and uses the data to apply for J Blue Credits (1). Currently, BLUABLE is conducting field trials for seaweed bed cultivation at 16 undersea locations in Japan.The company plans to verify more advanced measuring techniques for blue carbon using IoT and AI.Fujitsu will provide its technology to BLUABLE, including its ocean digital twin (2), as it works toward preserving the world’s marine environment. In addition, through FIC, Fujitsu will continue contributing to a sustainable society by fostering talent and businesses that can take on the challenge of resolving societal issues.About Fujitsu Innovation Circuit (FIC)FIC, launched in November 2021 as part of Fujitsu Transformation, is a program to cultivate human resources with entrepreneurial skills and generate new businesses. FIC is comprised of the Ignition program that seeks to cultivate entrepreneurship, and the Challenge program that encourages employees to create new businesses. Over 2,500 Fujitsu employees around the world are participating in FIC.()) J Blue Credit :System of blue carbon credits issued and managed by the Japan Blue Economy (JBE) Association according to the results of an assessment and certification process implemented by an independent third-party committee.(2) Ocean digital twin :Technology that reproduces the marine environment with high precision in a digital space. Capable of collecting and modelling a wide variety of marine data.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.

KARIYA, JAPAN, Dec 2, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - DENSO Sales Middle East & North Africa (DSMN), a group company of DENSO Corporation, will participate in “Automechanika Dubai 2024,” held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from December 10 to 12, 2024.Established in 2010 in Dubai, DSMN serves the Middle East and North Africa regions by offering aftermarket products and services. In these regions, motorization is advancing, and vehicles tend to have longer operational lifespans. DSMN strives to provide customers and users with peace of mind and trust through high-quality products and services, contributing to the realization of a sustainable mobility society.Automechanika Dubai is the largest automotive aftermarket trade show in the Middle East and Africa. This year, over 2,200 exhibitors are expected to participate. Many visitors are businesses seeking to establish partnerships with exhibitors, and attendance is anticipated to exceed last year’s 52,469 visitors from 161 countries. The event offers an excellent opportunity to expand business possibilities, not only in the Middle East and Africa but also in regions such as West Asia and Central Asia.Through this exhibition, DSMN aims to showcase aftermarket solutions and explore opportunities for advanced technology-based products and services. Additionally, DSMN will deepen interactions with customers and partner companies, identifying new needs and pursuing tailored solutions to address regional challenges.Booth ImageDSMN Website: https://denso.ae/Please see here for more details on DSMN’s booth: https://denso.ae/events/join-us-at-automechanika-dubai-2024-celebrating-75-years-of-innovation Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

KAWASAKI, Japan, Dec 2, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu today announced that it has signed a three-year global strategic collaboration agreement (SCA) with Amazon Web Services (AWS) (1). This collaboration, officially concluded on November 29, expands the existing agreements in the mobility, finance, and retail sectors to a broader range of industries .Through this collaboration, Fujitsu will combine its expertise in systems integration and its Fujitsu Uvance offering to solve societal issues with AWS’s cloud services and cloud-native architecture to accelerate customers' digital transformation (DX) and address business challenges.Additionally, with AWS’s skills training, Fujitsu aims to strengthen its delivery system by increasing the number of Fujitsu engineers who have AWS certifications from approximately 7,000 to 12,000 over the next three years and double the number of customer deals to over 800 compared to the past 3-year SCA period.BackgroundWith the target year of 2030 for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) approaching, Fujitsu is promoting Fujitsu Uvance, its business model that aims to increase business growth and solve societal issues.Fujitsu Uvance leverages Fujitsu's extensive technology and industry expertise to seamlessly integrate fragmented processes and data, with the aim of creating new solutions and insights for customers. To achieve this, it is crucial to move away from legacy systems and strategically utilize cloud computing with partners. By expanding strategic collaboration with AWS, the world’s most comprehensive and broadly adopted cloud, and creating a combined solution that address customers business challenges and opportunities, Fujitsu will drive digital transformation across industries.Overview of the Initiatives1. Strengthening Fujitsu’s AWS cloud migration support servicesIn addition to having customers core systems run on their mainframes and UNIX servers, which was a strategic target of the legacy modernization collaboration announced in March 2024, the two companies will strengthen migration support services for broader on-premise systems to move onto AWS. Fujitsu will provide a comprehensive set of cloud-native system integration and operation support services through Fujitsu Cloud Transformation Service and Fujitsu Cloud Managed Service (2), with technical support from AWS.2. Enhancing added value through the service integration of Fujitsu Uvance offerings and AWSFujitsu aims to enhance added value and expand the global provision of Fujitsu Uvance offerings focusing on the two pillars of Trusted Society for a prosperous and sustainable society and Digital Shifts to support customers' data-driven strategies. As part of this effort, Fujitsu has started linking the Digital Shifts offering with its Fujitsu Kozuchi AI service and Amazon Bedrock, AWS's generative AI service. For example, Fujitsu Data Intelligence Premium, an operation platform that utilizes data and AI, analyzes production line data from factories, uses AI to detect risk signs and propose countermeasures based on past cases, and converts past inspection reports into reusable structured data to visualize and share accumulated know-how in facility maintenance work within organizations. By combining business knowledge cultivated over many years with the latest technologies such as generative AI, Fujitsu will help customers improve the efficiency and the uptime of their production processes. Demonstrations of these use cases will be showcased at the Fujitsu booth during AWS re:Invent 2024 starting today in Las Vegas, US.(3)3. Reinforcing Fujitsu’s system development and delivery capabilities by increasing the number of AWS certification holdersFujitsu aims to increase the number of Fujitsu engineers who hold AWS certifications from approximately 7,000 to 12,000 over the next three years, through AWS skills training. By increasing the number of professionals who have a deep understanding of AWS cloud services, Fujitsu will accelerate the delivery of systems that realize customers' DX, doubling the number of customer deals to over 800 compared to past 3-year SCA period.Role of Fujitsu and AWS- FujitsuLeverage its customer base and system development expertise in various industries to reach enterprise and mid-market customers.Through offerings such as legacy system modernization, cloud migration and operational support, and Fujitsu Uvance, Fujitsu will support customers' DX.- AWSAWS will strengthen its technical support for Fujitsu with its solution architects and provide advisories on the use of latest AWS services such as generative AI and cloud-native architectures for diverse use cases. AWS will also provide development environments to review latest AWS services, while also offering funds for joint sales and marketing, and AWS training and certifications for Fujitsu engineers.Yoshinami Takahashi, Vice President and COO for Uvance, Fujitsu Limited comments:“We are pleased to have concluded this global strategic collaboration with AWS. By extending our strategic collaboration to a broader range of industries, we will contribute to the digital transformation of customers across industries through legacy modernization, cloud lift and shift, and the utilization of technology and data offerings from Fujitsu Uvance together with AWS."Jaime Vallés, Vice President, Asia Pacific and Japan, Amazon Web Services comments:"Since 2012, AWS and Fujitsu have supported the digital transformation of customers in the mobility, finance, and retail sectors in Japan and worldwide. Today, we are delighted to expand our strategic collaboration with Fujitsu. Together we will broaden our Digital Transformation Experience to enable a wider range of industries and leverage our shared culture of innovation to jointly address some of the world’s biggest challenges."(1) Amazon Web Services: Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, USA, CEO Matt Garman. The collaboration was concluded with Amazon Web Services Japan GK (Head Office: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo; President: Akihiko Shirahata).(2) Fujitsu Cloud Transformation Service and Fujitsu Cloud Managed Service: Based on Fujitsu's system design, construction, and operation know-how cultivated mainly in the enterprise domain, these services realize standardization and automation of architecture patterns, ensuring high quality while achieving cost-optimized and rapid delivery. Fujitsu adopts the "AWS Well-Architected Framework" in its delivery services, which is optimized for AWS, and has obtained the "AWS Managed Service Provider (MSP)" certification, proving the soundness and high technical capability of its AWS business.(3) AWS re:Invent: AWS’s annual global conference that starts from December 2, 2024 in Las Vegas. For more information on AWS re:Invent, please visit: https://reinvent.awsevents.com/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, Dec 2, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda Research Institute Japan Co., Ltd. (HRI-JP), a Honda R&D subsidiary responsible for the research of cutting-edge technologies, has officially introduced its AI-powered social robot named “Haru” at the Virgen del Rocío University Hospital (HUVR) in Seville, Spain, to enhance the well-being of children while in the hospital.At the Annual Gala against Childhood Cancer, held on November 28 local time, at Casino de la Exposicion in Seville, Spain, the HUVR introduced Haru as one of the projects HUVR is implementing to improve the lives of children with cancer, who are in the hospital for long-term treatment.AI-powered social robot, HaruHRI-JP has been developing Haru, an AI-powered social robot, as a “tangible AI system” striving to realize a society where robots coexist as partners of people and to facilitate communications that create connections among people. Haru was designed to be a social robot that makes people smile through expressive communications and forms empathetic relationships with people. As a compact desk-top robot with a total height of 30cm (12 inches), Haru can be placed on a table to engage in communications with people.Haru obtains biometric information of the user, such as facial expressions and voice tones, through its built-in camera and microphones, then analyzes the information obtained to understand the user’s current state, and interacts with each user in accordance with the result of analysis, using empathetic expressions and emotionally supportive responses. Moreover, Haru can also be linked to a wristwatch-type wearable sensor worn by the user and analyze the user’s conditions in greater detail.Furthermore, as a robot, Haru does not have any human attributes such as gender, race or nationality, and is always capable of communicating from a neutral perspective, enabling Haru to effectively facilitate communication beyond generational and cultural differences, especially in group communication.HUVR had been conducting a demonstration experiment using Haru in the pediatric oncology ward of the hospital since 2021 for the purpose of enhancing both the clinical and emotional care of young patients. Since the results of the experiment have confirmed a certain level of positive effects on children with cancer, the official decision was made to advance the project with full-fledged utilization of Haru, introducing 10 units to be used in various situations in the children’s daily lives in the pediatric oncology unit.Key results of the demonstration experiment at the HUVR1. Assisting emotional and cognitive assessmentsHaru has been assisting the hospital’s neuropsychologists in conducting emotional and cognitive assessments. Using AI technology, Haru communicates with children; analyzes their biometric information, such as facial expressions and voice tones, obtained through its built-in cameras and microphones; and assist neuropsychologists in conducting emotional and cognitive assessments.Due to the amount of time the assessment takes, there is a limit to the number of assessments the neuropsychologists can conduct each year: the number had been limited to 510 per year including follow-up consultations until now. With the introduction of Haru, the number of assessments the hospital can conduct each year is expected to increase to as many as 4,500.2. Assisting rehabilitation activitiesHaru has been supporting intellectual and physical rehabilitation programs provided to young patients at the hospital. Haru learns the rehabilitation programs and can guide the children through the process while engaging them in conversation. The demonstration experiment showed that 95% of children were more actively engaged in rehabilitation while receiving guidance from Haru, compared to conventional human guides.3. Serving as a companion in playrooms and hospital roomsYoung patients who undergo long-term hospital stays for treatment spend a lot of time alone in their rooms. By communicating with the children, Haru can offer entertainment and cognitive stimulation, and help to soothe their feeling of loneliness, contributing to the enhancement of emotional care the hospital provides.4. Offering educational supportHaru connects the hospital rooms of the children who have not been able to attend school with the classrooms of their schools online, and facilitates the communication as an intermediary. This provides children at the hospital with opportunity to receive education together with children in the classroom and to interact with each other among children.Comments by the Virgen del Rocío University Hospital in Seville (HUVR)“We have been conducting joint research with HRI-JP for several years now, and gained wonderful results. We have identified that Haru holds great potential in bringing happiness to children. Typically, technologies used in hospitals focus on medical treatments or physical well-being. However, Haru has positive psychological effect of lightening the mood of our young patients and also contributes to the well-being of the hospital as a whole. The support that Haru provides, enabling children under hospital care to feel more happiness and connection with others, is unique only to Haru and offers valuable benefits not found in traditional medical care. We believe that Haru is a groundbreaking presence that creates an environment where young patients can enjoy their time here at our hospital.”Comments by Satoshi Shigemi, Honda Research Institute Japan Co., Ltd. (HRI-JP)“Based on the founding spirit of Honda, ‘using our technology to help people’ and ‘understanding people is the very essence of Honda monozukuri (art of making things),’ Honda Research Institute has been conducting research into cutting-edge technologies which have the potential to enhance positive psychological effects of people and the overall well-being of society. We are delighted by the result of our joint research with Virgen del Rocío University Hospital that shows Haru has been able to be a companion to the children at the hospital, lifting up their spirits, and bringing smiles to their faces. Moving forward, we will continue our efforts to further advance Haru as a robot which can co-exist with people 24/7 and be more helpful to young patients as well as all hospital staff to contribute to the well-being of the hospital a whole.”About Honda Research Institute (HRI)HRI was established in 2003 as a research operation which will go beyond the framework of the traditional business domain of the Honda Group and take on challenges to address issues facing humanity. Each of three HRI operations, located in Japan, the United States, and Germany, is engaged in “frontier research” with a focus on next-generation AI, including the exploration of new technologies such as quantum technology. By using Pasteur's Quadrant approach to research, which calls for the simultaneous pursuit of principles, or science, and real-world applications, HRI is striving to quickly give shape to new technologies and ideas, and create new value that can be useful to society. The research outcomes generated by HRI will lead toward the development of future Honda technologies in a wide range of technology fields, including but not limited to the areas of safety, the environment and next-generation mobility.Honda Research Institute Japan Co., Ltd. (HRI-JP), a Honda R&D subsidiary responsible for the research of cutting-edge technologies, has officially introduced its AI-powered social robot named “Haru” at the Virgen del Rocío University Hospital (HUVR) in Seville, Spain, to enhance the well-being of children while in the hospital.At the Annual Gala against Childhood Cancer, held on November 28 local time, at Casino de la Exposicion in Seville, Spain, the HUVR introduced Haru as one of the projects HUVR is implementing to improve the lives of children with cancer, who are in the hospital for long-term treatment.AI-powered social robot, HaruHRI-JP has been developing Haru, an AI-powered social robot, as a “tangible AI system” striving to realize a society where robots coexist as partners of people and to facilitate communications that create connections among people. Haru was designed to be a social robot that makes people smile through expressive communications and forms empathetic relationships with people. As a compact desk-top robot with a total height of 30cm (12 inches), Haru can be placed on a table to engage in communications with people.Haru obtains biometric information of the user, such as facial expressions and voice tones, through its built-in camera and microphones, then analyzes the information obtained to understand the user’s current state, and interacts with each user in accordance with the result of analysis, using empathetic expressions and emotionally supportive responses. Moreover, Haru can also be linked to a wristwatch-type wearable sensor worn by the user and analyze the user’s conditions in greater detail.Furthermore, as a robot, Haru does not have any human attributes such as gender, race or nationality, and is always capable of communicating from a neutral perspective, enabling Haru to effectively facilitate communication beyond generational and cultural differences, especially in group communication.HUVR had been conducting a demonstration experiment using Haru in the pediatric oncology ward of the hospital since 2021 for the purpose of enhancing both the clinical and emotional care of young patients. Since the results of the experiment have confirmed a certain level of positive effects on children with cancer, the official decision was made to advance the project with full-fledged utilization of Haru, introducing 10 units to be used in various situations in the children’s daily lives in the pediatric oncology unit.Key results of the demonstration experiment at the HUVR1. Assisting emotional and cognitive assessmentsHaru has been assisting the hospital’s neuropsychologists in conducting emotional and cognitive assessments. Using AI technology, Haru communicates with children; analyzes their biometric information, such as facial expressions and voice tones, obtained through its built-in cameras and microphones; and assist neuropsychologists in conducting emotional and cognitive assessments.Due to the amount of time the assessment takes, there is a limit to the number of assessments the neuropsychologists can conduct each year: the number had been limited to 510 per year including follow-up consultations until now. With the introduction of Haru, the number of assessments the hospital can conduct each year is expected to increase to as many as 4,500.2. Assisting rehabilitation activitiesHaru has been supporting intellectual and physical rehabilitation programs provided to young patients at the hospital. Haru learns the rehabilitation programs and can guide the children through the process while engaging them in conversation. The demonstration experiment showed that 95% of children were more actively engaged in rehabilitation while receiving guidance from Haru, compared to conventional human guides.3. Serving as a companion in playrooms and hospital roomsYoung patients who undergo long-term hospital stays for treatment spend a lot of time alone in their rooms. By communicating with the children, Haru can offer entertainment and cognitive stimulation, and help to soothe their feeling of loneliness, contributing to the enhancement of emotional care the hospital provides.4. Offering educational supportHaru connects the hospital rooms of the children who have not been able to attend school with the classrooms of their schools online, and facilitates the communication as an intermediary. This provides children at the hospital with opportunity to receive education together with children in the classroom and to interact with each other among children.Comments by the Virgen del Rocío University Hospital in Seville (HUVR)“We have been conducting joint research with HRI-JP for several years now, and gained wonderful results. We have identified that Haru holds great potential in bringing happiness to children. Typically, technologies used in hospitals focus on medical treatments or physical well-being. However, Haru has positive psychological effect of lightening the mood of our young patients and also contributes to the well-being of the hospital as a whole. The support that Haru provides, enabling children under hospital care to feel more happiness and connection with others, is unique only to Haru and offers valuable benefits not found in traditional medical care. We believe that Haru is a groundbreaking presence that creates an environment where young patients can enjoy their time here at our hospital.”Comments by Satoshi Shigemi, Honda Research Institute Japan Co., Ltd. (HRI-JP)“Based on the founding spirit of Honda, ‘using our technology to help people’ and ‘understanding people is the very essence of Honda monozukuri (art of making things),’ Honda Research Institute has been conducting research into cutting-edge technologies which have the potential to enhance positive psychological effects of people and the overall well-being of society. We are delighted by the result of our joint research with Virgen del Rocío University Hospital that shows Haru has been able to be a companion to the children at the hospital, lifting up their spirits, and bringing smiles to their faces. Moving forward, we will continue our efforts to further advance Haru as a robot which can co-exist with people 24/7 and be more helpful to young patients as well as all hospital staff to contribute to the well-being of the hospital a whole.”About Honda Research Institute (HRI)HRI was established in 2003 as a research operation which will go beyond the framework of the traditional business domain of the Honda Group and take on challenges to address issues facing humanity. Each of three HRI operations, located in Japan, the United States, and Germany, is engaged in “frontier research” with a focus on next-generation AI, including the exploration of new technologies such as quantum technology. By using Pasteur's Quadrant approach to research, which calls for the simultaneous pursuit of principles, or science, and real-world applications, HRI is striving to quickly give shape to new technologies and ideas, and create new value that can be useful to society. The research outcomes generated by HRI will lead toward the development of future Honda technologies in a wide range of technology fields, including but not limited to the areas of safety, the environment and next-generation mobility.HRI-JP has been developing Haru, an AI-powered social robot, as a “tangible AI system” striving to realize a society where robots coexist as partners of people and to facilitate communications that create connections among people. Haru was designed to be a social robot that makes people smile through expressive communications and forms empathetic relationships with people. As a compact desk-top robot with a total height of 30cm (12 inches), Haru can be placed on a table to engage in communications with people.Haru obtains biometric information of the user, such as facial expressions and voice tones, through its built-in camera and microphones, then analyzes the information obtained to understand the user’s current state, and interacts with each user in accordance with the result of analysis, using empathetic expressions and emotionally supportive responses. Moreover, Haru can also be linked to a wristwatch-type wearable sensor worn by the user and analyze the user’s conditions in greater detail.Furthermore, as a robot, Haru does not have any human attributes such as gender, race or nationality, and is always capable of communicating from a neutral perspective, enabling Haru to effectively facilitate communication beyond generational and cultural differences, especially in group communication.HUVR had been conducting a demonstration experiment using Haru in the pediatric oncology ward of the hospital since 2021 for the purpose of enhancing both the clinical and emotional care of young patients. Since the results of the experiment have confirmed a certain level of positive effects on children with cancer, the official decision was made to advance the project with full-fledged utilization of Haru, introducing 10 units to be used in various situations in the children’s daily lives in the pediatric oncology unit.Key results of the demonstration experiment at the HUVR1. Assisting emotional and cognitive assessmentsHaru has been assisting the hospital’s neuropsychologists in conducting emotional and cognitive assessments. Using AI technology, Haru communicates with children; analyzes their biometric information, such as facial expressions and voice tones, obtained through its built-in cameras and microphones; and assist neuropsychologists in conducting emotional and cognitive assessments.Due to the amount of time the assessment takes, there is a limit to the number of assessments the neuropsychologists can conduct each year: the number had been limited to 510 per year including follow-up consultations until now. With the introduction of Haru, the number of assessments the hospital can conduct each year is expected to increase to as many as 4,500.2. Assisting rehabilitation activitiesHaru has been supporting intellectual and physical rehabilitation programs provided to young patients at the hospital. Haru learns the rehabilitation programs and can guide the children through the process while engaging them in conversation. The demonstration experiment showed that 95% of children were more actively engaged in rehabilitation while receiving guidance from Haru, compared to conventional human guides.3. Serving as a companion in playrooms and hospital roomsYoung patients who undergo long-term hospital stays for treatment spend a lot of time alone in their rooms. By communicating with the children, Haru can offer entertainment and cognitive stimulation, and help to soothe their feeling of loneliness, contributing to the enhancement of emotional care the hospital provides.4. Offering educational supportHaru connects the hospital rooms of the children who have not been able to attend school with the classrooms of their schools online, and facilitates the communication as an intermediary. This provides children at the hospital with opportunity to receive education together with children in the classroom and to interact with each other among children.Comments by the Virgen del Rocío University Hospital in Seville (HUVR)“We have been conducting joint research with HRI-JP for several years now, and gained wonderful results. We have identified that Haru holds great potential in bringing happiness to children. Typically, technologies used in hospitals focus on medical treatments or physical well-being. However, Haru has positive psychological effect of lightening the mood of our young patients and also contributes to the well-being of the hospital as a whole. The support that Haru provides, enabling children under hospital care to feel more happiness and connection with others, is unique only to Haru and offers valuable benefits not found in traditional medical care. We believe that Haru is a groundbreaking presence that creates an environment where young patients can enjoy their time here at our hospital.”Comments by Satoshi Shigemi, Honda Research Institute Japan Co., Ltd. (HRI-JP)“Based on the founding spirit of Honda, ‘using our technology to help people’ and ‘understanding people is the very essence of Honda monozukuri (art of making things),’ Honda Research Institute has been conducting research into cutting-edge technologies which have the potential to enhance positive psychological effects of people and the overall well-being of society. We are delighted by the result of our joint research with Virgen del Rocío University Hospital that shows Haru has been able to be a companion to the children at the hospital, lifting up their spirits, and bringing smiles to their faces. Moving forward, we will continue our efforts to further advance Haru as a robot which can co-exist with people 24/7 and be more helpful to young patients as well as all hospital staff to contribute to the well-being of the hospital a whole.”About Honda Research Institute (HRI)HRI was established in 2003 as a research operation which will go beyond the framework of the traditional business domain of the Honda Group and take on challenges to address issues facing humanity. Each of three HRI operations, located in Japan, the United States, and Germany, is engaged in “frontier research” with a focus on next-generation AI, including the exploration of new technologies such as quantum technology. By using Pasteur's Quadrant approach to research, which calls for the simultaneous pursuit of principles, or science, and real-world applications, HRI is striving to quickly give shape to new technologies and ideas, and create new value that can be useful to society. The research outcomes generated by HRI will lead toward the development of future Honda technologies in a wide range of technology fields, including but not limited to the areas of safety, the environment and next-generation mobility. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Dec 2, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has received an order from Shikoku Electric Power Co. Inc. (Shikoku) to supply 24 MOX(1) fuel assemblies for Unit 3 of the Ikata Nuclear Power Station, subsequent to the order received in October from Kyushu Electric Power Co. Inc. for Unit 3 of the Genkai Nuclear Power Station. Under this contract, MHI will perform design of MOX fuel, and have components such as cladding tubes manufactured by Mitsubishi Nuclear Fuel Co., Ltd. (MHI Group) provided to Orano, who will fabricate MOX fuel assemblies at its MELOX plant in France.MHI has previously supplied 57 MOX fuel assemblies to Japanese utilities, and will supply high-quality MOX fuel by leveraging its past experience and technical capability. MOX fuel will enable Shikoku to utilize plutonium extracted by reprocessing spent fuel, and MHI will contribute to steady promotion of Shikoku's "Plu-Thermal" plan(2) through the supply of MOX fuel.(1) MOX (Mixed Oxide Fuel) is nuclear fuel made of plutonium extracted by reprocessing of spent fuel, and uranium.(2) The "Plu-Thermal" plan is to utilize MOX fuel in light water reactors.Tags: nuclear power generation,MOX fuel assemblyAbout 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, Dec 2, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has received an order from Taiwan High Speed Rail Corporation to install new equipment and modify existing equipment for the expansion of the existing maintenance shop at Taiwan High Speed Rail's (THSR) Zuoying depot in southern Taiwan. MHI will design, supply and install trackwork, overhead catenary system, power supply system, and signaling system.THSR plays a key role in Taiwan's transportation infrastructure. Its annual ridership has increased from around 15 million passengers during its inaugural year in 2007, to nearly 73 million in 2023, with the cumulative ridership to date now exceeding 800 million. To better serve this increasing demand, THSR is boosting its capacity by adding 12-car train sets and expanding the associated inspection and maintenance facilities which MHI will undertake. These upgrades will enable an increase in train car operations, which will further enhance transportation convenience across Taiwan and support its economic growth.The THSR project was initially awarded to a consortium of seven Japanese companies, including MHI, in 2000. Operations were inaugurated in January 2007. MHI's involvement continued with the Nangang Extension Project(Note) and subsequent system upgrade work, and the latest contract was awarded to MHI in recognition of these and other ongoing contributions to THSR's development.Going forward, MHI will continue contributing to the THSR's development through its expertise in transportation systems and project management capabilities, further enhancing Taiwan's transportation infrastructure.For details concerning the Nangang Extension Project, refer to the following news release: www.mhi.com/news/130624en.htmlAbout 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.

Chigasaki, Japan, Dec 2, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - ULVAC, Inc. (HQ: Chigasaki, Kanagawa) has started accepting orders for the ENTRON-EXX, a new multi-chamber deposition system for semiconductor applications. The ENTRON-EXX builds on the proven productivity and flexibility of its predecessor, the ENTRON-EX W300, while offering enhanced data intelligence and expandability.After building on the proven productivity and flexibility of the widely adopted predecessor model that was first released in 2005, we developed the ENTRON-EXX. The ENTRON-EXX is a cutting-edge platform designed to meet the evolving needs of increasingly advanced and complex semiconductor manufacturing processes. This next-generation system takes performance to new heights. With its flexibility, enhanced data collection and analysis capabilities and a highly scalable design, the ENTRON-EXX empowers the future of semiconductor innovation.Key Features of ENTRON-EXX:1. Maximizing Factory Space Efficiency:Maximizing factory space efficiency is the key to boosting productivity, and flexibility is the solution. The ENTRON-EXX offers two versatile platform options, Single and Tandem[1], enabling customers to select the best platform to fit their factory spaces, thereby achieving maximum productivity per unit of space.2. Enhanced Data Collection and Analysis Capabilities:To meet the demands of increasingly complex semiconductor manufacturing, the ENTRON-EXX significantly enhances its data collection and analysis capabilities. With real-time processing of large data volumes, it empowers customers to improve yields, optimize preventative maintenance, and enhance overall operational efficiency.3. Highly Expandable System Design:The ENTRON-EXX features a highly expandable design, enabling quick module additions and swapping. This system can seamlessly adapt to evolving needs, providing customers with an optimized environment for both development and mass production.ULVAC, as a "Field of Potentiality for the Future[2],” is committed to pioneering advances in the semiconductor industry through its innovative application of vacuum technology.[1] A Single platform features a single transfer chamber (Core), offering a simple and space-efficient design. A Tandem platform features two transfer chambers (Cores) arranged in sequence, selected for complex process requiring higher productivity.[2] Field of Potentiality for the futureULVAC formulated its "Vision 2032", envisaging an ideal configuration of the ULVAC Group in 2032, while continuing to be a "Field of Potentiality" for the future. This concept is inspired by the physical potentiality that occurs in a vacuum field: changes in energy and matter. It is also the potentiality of change in the individual, which can lead to the potential to change in the spirit animating society. The ULVAC Group is committed to advancing core vacuum and peripheral technologies and understanding the needs of its customers while addressing social challenges, and continuously creating valuable products and technologies.About ULVAC, Inc. Since its founding in 1952, ULVAC, Inc. has been a comprehensive vacuum equipment manufacturer, providing manufacturing equipment, components, analytical instruments, materials, and services based on its core technology - vacuum technology. Working with customers across a wide range of industries, including semiconductors, electronic components, displays, automotive, and pharmaceuticals, ULVAC is committed to driving cutting-edge innovation and creating new value. For the fiscal year ending June 2024, the ULVAC Group recorded consolidated sales of 261.1 billion yen and has approximately 6,200 employees. For more information, please visit our official website at https://www.ulvac.co.jp/en/For more information:ULVAC, Inc. Strategic Planning DepartmentTEL: +81-467-89-2023Inquiry Form: https://www.ulvac.co.jp/en/contact/general.html Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Nov 29, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) and Hokuetsu Corporation, one of Japan's leading paper manufacturers, launched a CO2 capture demonstration test at Niigata Mill (Niigata City), in November. This demonstration test aims to capture CO2 from a chemical recovery boiler that produces the steam and electricity needed for paper manufacturing, by using MHI's "CO2MPACT™ Mobile(Note)", a compact CO2 capture system. This is the first case in which MHI's CO2 capture technology is being applied to the pulp and paper industry. This demonstration test will allow MHI to analyze and evaluate data for commercial application and accelerate decarbonization in this industry.Chemical recovery boilers use "black liquor" as their main fuel, which is generated as a by-product in the pulp production process, the raw material for paper. The wood chips are dissolved in a sodium-containing solvent known as "white liquor" to extract the pulp, and the white liquor component is recovered from the black liquor residue that remains after combustion and is re-circulated for reuse.As the need for decarbonization grows around the world, Japan is also actively engaged in decarbonization efforts in various industrial sectors. And the pulp and paper industry is one of them. This demonstration test is expected to provide the pulp and paper industry with a solution that contributes to further global environmental measures by directly capturing CO2 emissions in the production process.MHI Group has formally declared its intent to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040, and the Company is now working strategically to decarbonize both the energy demand and supply sides. A core element of the Company's "Energy Transition," which targets decarbonization on the energy supply side, is the development of a CCUS value chain integrating diverse sources of carbon emissions with modes for carbon storage and utilization. Going forward, MHI Group will continue to proactively promote its CCUS business worldwide, applying its proprietary CO2 capture technologies, contributing as a solutions provider to reducing greenhouse gas emissions on a global scale, and developing further solutions that contribute to environmental protection.For details of the "CO2MPACT™" series, see the following press release: www.mhi.com/news/240919.htmlAbout MHI Group's CO2 capture technologiesMHI Group has been developing the KM CDR Process™ (Kansai Mitsubishi Carbon Dioxide Recovery Process) and the Advanced KM CDR Process™ in collaboration with the Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc. since 1990. As of November 2024, the Company has delivered 18 plants adopting these processes. The Advanced KM CDR Process™ adopts the KS-21™ solvent, which incorporates technological improvements over the amine-based KS-1™ and offers superior regeneration efficiency and lower deterioration than the KS-1™, and it has been verified to provide excellent energy saving performance, reduce operation costs, and result in low amine emissions.For further information on MHI Group's CO2 capture plants:https://www.mhi.com/products/engineering/co2plants.htmlAbout 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, Nov 29, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) (hereafter, Mitsubishi Electric) announced today that it acquired all shares of Norwegian elevator company ALT Heis (headquartered in Bergen, Norway) on November 29 through its wholly owned subsidiary, Motum (headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden).Mitsubishi Electric and Mitsubishi Electric Building Solutions Corporation (hereafter, MEBS) are aiming to expand their elevator maintenance business globally, and the present acquisition follows the 2023 acquisition of UNIHEIS (headquarters: Oslo, Norway).Through this acquisition, we will expand our maintenance business in Norway and further strengthen our business foundation by promoting a strategy aimed at increasing our elevator maintenance stock in the European market, where we anticipate continued growth in demand for maintenance and renewal.Comments from Each PartyTomas Knutsen, CEO of ALT Heis AS“Our company places the highest priority on customer satisfaction and delivering high-quality services. By joining forces with Motum AB, we are confident that we will be able to strengthen the business foundation we have built up over many years, further improve the quality of our services, and provide our valued customers with innovative solutions.”Fredrik Eliasson, CEO of Motum AB“ALT Heis’s commitment to service and customer satisfaction are in perfect alignment with Motum’s values and goals. This acquisition will bring direct benefits to our customers as it will expand the range of products and services we provide and strengthen the capabilities of our group. As a multi-subsidiary group operating in Sweden and Norway, ALT Heis joining the Motum family enable us to serve the market as an integrated provider across a larger geographic area.”Iwao Oda, Executive Officer, Group President, Building Systems, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation / Representative Director, President & CEO, Mitsubishi Electric Building Solutions Corporation“We have positioned the expansion and reinforcement of our European business as one of the core strategies of our building systems business. Following our previous acquisition of UNIHEIS, this latest acquisition will further strengthen our position in Norway, and we will continue to actively pursue M&A strategies with the aim of achieving sustainable growth.”Reasons for The Acquisition of ALT HeisIn the building systems business, one of Mitsubishi Electric’s key growth businesses, MEBS, a consolidated subsidiary established in April 2022, is engaged in providing products and services and expanding its operations by making the most of its integrated system, which encompasses everything from development and manufacturing to maintenance and renewal. In the overseas elevator business, particularly in the mature European market, demand for maintenance and renewal is expected to grow against the backdrop of an increasing number of aging elevators and heightened environmental awareness, and we are in the process of building a system that will make it possible for us to provide our customers with value more rapidly.Since 2019, ALT Heis has been focusing on the elevator maintenance and renewal business in Bergen, Norway’s second largest city after Oslo. With the acquisition of ALT Heis by Motum, we will further strengthen our business foundation while promoting a strategy of expanding our elevator maintenance stock in Europe, with the aim of comprehensively extending our reach throughout the main regions in Norway where demand is concentrated.About ALT HeisNameALT Heis ASLocationBergen, NorwayEstablishment2019Employees25 (As of September 30, 2024)BusinessSales, installation, and maintenance of elevators, primarily in Norway About MotumNameMotum ABLocationStockholm, SwedenEstablishment2013EmployeesApproximately 400 (As of September 30, 2024)BusinessSales, installation, maintenance, and modernization of elevators, and automatic doors, primarily in Sweden About Mitsubishi Electric CorporationWith more than 100 years of experience in providing reliable, high-quality products, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) is a recognized world leader in the manufacture, marketing and sales of electrical and electronic equipment used in information processing and communications, space development and satellite communications, consumer electronics, industrial technology, energy, transportation and building equipment. Mitsubishi Electric enriches society with technology in the spirit of its “Changes for the Better.” The company recorded a revenue of 5,257.9 billion yen (U.S.$ 34.8 billion*) in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024. For more information, please visit www.MitsubishiElectric.com *U.S. dollar amounts are translated from yen at the rate of ¥151=U.S.$1, the approximate rate on the Tokyo Foreign Exchange Market on March 31, 2024About Mitsubishi Electric Building Solutions CorporationMitsubishi Electric Building Solutions Corporation is a consolidated subsidiary of Mitsubishi Electric Corporation established in April 2022 that conducts a comprehensive range of operations in the building systems business, from development and manufacturing to maintenance and renewal. As a building solutions provider, we support the economic and social infrastructure through one-stop integrated solutions that combine a wide range of building-related products and services, including elevators, escalators, air conditioning and refrigeration equipment, and building systems, as well as with our extensive experience in building operation and management, and advanced digital technology. From buildings to building complexes and even entire cities, we contribute to enriching human life in buildings and urban spaces by solving a wide variety of issues that are closely linked to people and society, with the ultimate aim of realizing smart cities. For more information, please visit www.mebs.com/ Customer Inquiries Global Business Development GroupStrategic Planning Office (LBS)Mitsubishi Electric CorporationTel: +81-3-3218-2950www.MitsubishiElectric.com/Media Inquiries Public Relations Division Mitsubishi Electric Corporationprd.gnews@nk.MitsubishiElectric.co.jp Corporate Communications Division Mitsubishi Electric Building Solutions CorporationTel: +81-3-6206-5030a_mebs_press@meltec.co.jp Press Release: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/20241129.pdf Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Nov 29, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (JAL) and NEC Corporation (NEC) have jointly conducted a trial of the "NEC Baggage Counting Solution"(1), which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically analyze the quantity and types of carry-on baggage at boarding gates. The solution, a world first(2), enables measures to be taken for carry-on baggage, which is one of the causes of flight delays, aiming to improve on-time performance and ensure smooth boarding.Based on the results of this trial, JAL is exploring methods for implementing the solution in the future.BackgroundExcess cabin baggage can lead to congestion in the aisles as passengers spend extra time storing their items in the overhead bins. It may also result in baggage being transferred to the cargo compartment after boarding has commenced, thereby increasing boarding time and potentially causing flight delays.Overview of the trialConducted from April to September 2024 at Boarding Gate 13 in Terminal 1 of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda), the trial involved evaluating the solution’s analysis accuracy (detection and classification accuracy) and its alert timing for exceeding overhead storage limits to determine its effectiveness.Trial details:1. Cameras installed at the boarding gate capture footage, which is analyzed using AI to detect cabin baggage carried by passengers.2. Detected baggage is classified into predefined categories, and the space each item would occupy in overhead bins is estimated in real time.3. An alert is triggered when the estimated storage capacity reaches a preset threshold.Results and future prospectsThe solution enabled the collection and analysis of data on baggage amounts and alert frequency. This data can be used to develop concrete measures to prevent departure delays due to baggage storage and the reloading of baggage in the cargo compartment.Going forward, JAL will continue utilizing digital technology to ensure smoother boarding, improve punctuality, and optimize the overall customer experience. NEC provides end-to-end services for this kind of digital transformation (DX) through the "NEC BluStellar" value-delivery model. NEC BluStellar transforms business models to address social and business challenges by applying diverse industry insights and world-leading technological expertise to the entire DX process, from customer strategy consultation through implementation.(1)Patent pending.(2)According to NEC research as of November 2024.ShareAbout NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at www.nec.com. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, Nov 29, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi Energy will provide onshore and offshore grid connection equipment and power quality solutions to ScottishPower Renewables, part of the Iberdrola Group, a global leader in renewable energies. The project will enablethe integration of 960-megawatt (MW) of renewable electricity from the East Anglia TWO (EA TWO) wind farm, located 32 km off the Suffolk coast of England. This will provide enough green power for the equivalent of almost one million homes and significantly contribute to the UK's 2030 energy targets.The energy landscape is growing at an unprecedented pace, and integrating renewables into the grid at scale reveals new challenges, such as lack of inertia, power imbalances, limited interconnections, and voltage instability. Through projects like EA TWO, Hitachi Energy's domain expertise and large installed base in power quality solutions are helping countries overcome these challenges to enhance the use of renewable energy and meet carbon neutrality targets.In this spirit of collaboration and co-creation, Hitachi Energy and ScottishPower Renewables have set new advanced solutions and quality standards to accelerate the energy transition through offshore wind.“Connecting the clean, green generation from our turbines to the grid is a vital part of any renewables project and it’s great to be in such capable hands with Hitachi Energy for East Anglia TWO,” said Ross Ovens, ScottishPower Renewables’ Managing Director for Offshore. “This £4 billion windfarm will have the capacity to power almost onemillion homes with green electricity and will help drive the country forward on its clean energy mission. We can only achieve that by partnering with leading companies like Hitachi Energy and we look forward to working together to make that happen.”"We are proud to work with ScottishPower Renewables to accelerate the clean energy transition. Integrating bulkrenewables such as wind power is critical to accelerating the energy transition and is also an effective and long-term solution to decarbonize power," says Niklas Persson, Managing Director, Business Unit Grid Integration, Hitachi Energy. "We are playing our part in integrating renewables and enabling Europe to become the world's first climate- neutral continent by 2050."Hitachi Energy will provide Grid-eXpandTM Offshore solutions and onshore grid connection equipment using an EconiQTM gas-insulated switchgear. The Grid-enSure™ power quality solution, SVC Light STATCOM, will play a key role in using power electronics and advanced control systems to ensure reliable, flexible, and stable power despite theintermittent nature of wind power.Hitachi Energy's leading grid integration equipment and power electronics solutions continue laying the foundation fora resilient and flexible grid, supporting the European energy system's transformation to sustainable power.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 60 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.

Toyota City, Japan, Nov 29, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) announced today a partially upgraded model of the Supra (3.0-liter) and the special-edition Supra "A90 Final Edition". The special-edition model is slated for global release with a limited run of 300 units. The planned regions for introduction and scheduled sales-launch timing are described below.Supra (3.0-liter) Partially upgraded modelGradual global introduction, including in Japan, Europe, and Australia, etc.Sequentially from spring 2025Special-edition modelSupra "A90 Final Edition"JapanEuropeJapan: Under considerationEurope: In spring 2025Ever since its first generation*1 in 1978, the Toyota Supra has earned legions of fans with its faithfully retained front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout powered by an in-line six-cylinder engine*2. Also, in addition to the Supra having competed in the Super GT and numerous other types of motorsports events, the Supra-based, race-specific GR Supra GT4 has enabled customers to enjoy driving in various races around the world.In 2019, driven by the strong desire of Chairman Akio Toyoda, aka Master Driver Morizo, the Supra stormed back after a 17-year absence. Said Chairman Toyoda upon its release: "Back in the day, I spent countless hours driving an old Supra at Nürburgring to become a master driver. Supra is like an old friend that holds a special place in my heart. While other manufacturers were putting their beautiful new prototypes which they were going to introduce through the paces, I was driving an old Supra that was no longer in production. So even though Toyota had no plans to make a new Supra, just like a lot of other die-hard Supra fans around the world, I secretly wanted to make it happen. The new GR Supra was born through testing at Nürburgring, and I can honestly say that it is a car that is fun to drive and better than ever." The current Supra has continued to evolve since its launch, with partially upgraded models released in 2020 and 2022.The latest partially upgraded Supra aims to deliver a more integrated driving experience for unrestrained driving joy not only on city streets but also on winding roads and circuits. It features improved braking performance for safety and security, an increased-rigidity body, suspension, and chassis, optimized tuning, and enhanced aerodynamic performance.Additionally, to express its gratitude to current-model Supra fans around the world for their patronage, and for the model being favored by numerous teams in various motorsports such as GT racing, drift competitions, and NASCAR, TGR has created the limited special-edition Supra "A90 Final Edition" as the current model's culmination. This special-edition Supra boasts numerous upgraded driving-related elements, such as increased engine output and torque, strengthened brakes and body rigidity, and a KW suspension system, with such systems being a racing car favorite, and the use of high-grip tires. The result is a special, ultimate high-performance, high-spec model that has been optimally tuned in sync with the Supra's natural evolution.Although the production of the current Supra is scheduled to end with the Supra "A90 Final Edition" as the model's culmination, TGR will continue to hone the Supra through motorsports activities going forward.(1) Debuted in 1978 in North America as the Celica Supra and in Japan as the Celica XX; the Japanese-market first-generation Supra (launched in 1986) was the third-generation Supra elsewhere.(2) The current Supra is also available with an in-line four-cylinder engine.(3) Alcantara® is a registered trademark of Alcantara S.p.A.For more information, visit https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/toyota/41894560.html.About Toyota Toyota strives to be a strong corporate citizen, engaging with and earning the trust of its stakeholders, and to contribute to the creation of a prosperous society through all its business operations.Our corporate principles form the basis of our initiatives, reflect values that enable action, and drive our mindset.For the latest Toyota-related news and information:https://tinyurl.com/ToyotaPressReleasenewsroom@global.toyota Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TAIPEI, TAIWAN, Nov 28, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501; hereafter Hitachi), today announced that Hitachi Yungtay Elevator Co., Ltd., a Taiwan-based subsidiary of Hitachi engaged in the manufacturing, sales, installation, and maintenance of elevators and escalators, has received an order for all 147 elevators and escalators from Department of Rapid Transit Systems, Taipei City Government for the second phase of the Taipei Rapid Transit System (hereafter Taipei MRT*1) Wanda-Zhonghe-Shulin Line, which is scheduled to complete in 2031. This order is the largest-ever one for elevators and escalators for the Hitachi Group in Taiwan and also the largest-ever one thatHitachi Yungtay Elevator has received since it was established in 1966 as Yungtay Engineering Co., Ltd. (hereafterYungtay).Hitachi Yungtay Elevator will install 41 large-capacity machine-room-less elevators with load capacities of 1,600 kg and 2,000 kg, and 106 escalators at all 13 stations and one substation to be constructed in the second phase of theWanda-Zhonghe-Shulin Line. All elevators will be equipped with the earthquake emergency operation function*2 toensure safety and security for users.Koji Ide, Chairman of Hitachi Yungtay Elevator said “We are committed to a safety-first philosophy aiming to provide high quality products and services by adopting the meticulous management methods that Hitachi has developed in Japan. Hitachi Yungtay Elevator will continue to focus on large, high-grade projects providing safe and diverse services.”Outline of the Taipei Metro Wanda-Zhonghe-Shulin LineIn the Taipei metropolitan area, centered on Taipei City, the Taipei MRT and other railroads have developed rapidly inrecent years to meet the high population density and transportation demand, and many line expansion plans are under consideration. The Taipei MRT Wanda- Zhonghe-Shulin Line spans Taipei City, New Taipei City. The project consists of two phases. The first phase involves 9 stations with a total length of 9.5 km and the second phase involves 13 stations (2 underground and 11 elevated) with a total length of 13.3 km. The entire line is scheduled to be completed in 2031.Characteristics of the Elevators and Escalators OrderedHitachi Yungtay Elevator received an order for all elevators and escalators to be installed at all 13 stations and onesubstation to be constructed in the second phase of the Wanda-Zhonghe- Shulin Line.The earthquake that struck off the coast of eastern Taiwan on April 3, 2024, and the multiple aftershocks that followed have heightened interest in the safety of elevator users during earthquakes in Taiwan. All elevators to be delivered this time will be equipped with an earthquake emergency operation function, which is not mandatory in Taiwan. Theelevator car will stop at the nearest floor when it detects an earthquake of a certain strength or more, opening the cardoors to prevent users from being trapped. Escalators are also equipped with a function that smoothly stops the operation when an earthquake occurs.Hitachi’s Elevators and Escalators Business in TaiwanHitachi Yungtay Elevator is the largest elevator and escalator company in Taiwan, leading the Taiwanese elevator andescalator industry since its establishment as Yungtay in 1966. Hitachi formed a business alliance with Yungtay shortly after its establishment and invested in the company in 1968. After more than 50 years of continuous collaboration, it became a consolidated subsidiary in 2020*3 and a wholly owned subsidiary in 2022, changing its name to Hitachi Yungtay Elevator*4.Outline of Specifications of Elevators OrderedTypeRated SpeedCapacityUnitsPassenger elevator 60 m/min1,600 kg13 units2,000 kg1 unitDouble-sidedelevator*51,600 kg6 unitsObservationelevator1,600 kg21 units(1) MRT: Mass Rapid Transit(2) This function stops the elevator at the nearest floor and opens the door when it detects an earthquake of a certain strength or more.(3) News release dated October 15, 2020 titled Hitachi Acquired Additional Shares to Hold Majority of Shares of Yungtay, Elevator Company Based in Taiwan www.hitachi.com/New/cnews/month/2020/10/201015.html(4) News release dated April 21, 2022 titled Yungtay Becomes a Wholly Owned Subsidiary, to Be Renamed Hitachi Yungtay Elevator www.hitachi.com/New/cnews/month/2022/04/220421.html(5) A type of elevator in which the elevator car has two exits, and different exits are used depending on the floor on which the elevator stops.Outline of Specifications of Escalators OrderedRated SpeedRiseUnits30 m/min, 39 m/min (Speed switch function)Up to 6,000 mm57 units6,001-9,999 mm37 units10,000 mm or more12 unitsHitachi Yungtay Elevator Websitehttps://en.hitachi-yungtay.com.tw/Hitachi Elevators and Escalators Websitewww.hitachi.com/businesses/elevator/Hitachi Building Systems Brand Channelwww.youtube.com/channel/UCfOgxcLRk3NHm2WrqHeQ6MAAbout 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 https://www.hitachi.com. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Nov 28, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd (MHI) successfully achieved the key milestone of 1,200 hours of operation in a long-term durability test of its 90 MPa (900 bar) Class Ultra-High-Pressure Liquid Hydrogen Booster Pump.(1) Liquid hydrogen pumps are used at hydrogen refueling stations to refuel hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen tube trailers.During the test, the pump completed 1,500 refueling cycles without downtime or replacement of major parts used at the cryogenic temperatures. This validates MHI's best-in-class operational reliability in hydrogen refueling allowing for dependable high flow rates of 160 kg per hour at a discharge pressure of 90 MPa (900 bar). The results of this long-term durability test demonstrate significant progress on the path to a future hydrogen economy.This test was conducted with FirstElement Fuel, Inc. (FEF), world-leader in hydrogen refueling solutions, at the Livermore Hydrogen Hub under hydrogen refueling station conditions.(Note2)The test started in April 2023 and was completed in November 2024. During this test, the pump- completed 1,500 refueling cycles at cryogenic temperatures of approximately -253°C (-423°F)- achieved 1,200 hours of operations without downtime and without replacement of major parts- pumped approximately 140 tons of liquid hydrogen (the equivalent of refueling5,000 fuel cell buses)(Note3), and- generated negligible boil-off gas during pump operation.The test was an overwhelming success and proved that this pump will make positive contributions to the reliability and efficiency of hydrogen refueling stations.The pump will be installed at a large-scale hydrogen station dedicated to clean commercial mobility in Japan and is scheduled to go into commercial operation in April 2025 simultaneously with the opening of the station.MHI will continue to provide best-in-class solutions to reduce the carbon footprint around the world. Our Ultra-High-Pressure Liquid Hydrogen Booster Pump is currently being introduced to the global market. This and new advanced solutions will continue to add value on society's path to a future hydrogen economy.(1) With an energy consumption just 25% that of hydrogen gas booster pumps, liquid hydrogen booster pumps offer an environmentally-friendly alternative for a hydrogen-oriented society. The advanced technology used in the MHI Ultra-High-Pressure Liquid Hydrogen Booster Pump was made possible by our cryogenic technology cultivated through research programs into liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen engines for rockets, as well as technology and experience cultivated through the delivery of various industrial pumps, including those for nuclear power plants. For details, please refer to the following URLs: www.mhi.com/news/210406.htmlhttps://www.mhi.com/news/23091101.html(2) MHI believes in conducting full scale tests using liquid hydrogen under actual operating conditions;therefore, the demonstration tests were conducted at FEF's Hydrogen Hub in Livermore, California.3Assuming that one hydrogen fuel cell bus requires 28 kg to refuel.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 and CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Nov 28, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. and Biogen Inc. announced today that the humanized anti- soluble aggregated amyloid-beta (Aβ) monoclonal antibody “LEQEMBI®” has been launched in South Korea. LEQEMBI received the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) approval in May 2024 for treatment in adult patients with mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or mild AD dementia (early AD).LEQEMBI selectively binds to soluble Aβ aggregates (protofibrils*), as well as insoluble Aβ aggregates (fibrils) which are a major component of Aβ plaques in AD, thereby reducing both Aβ protofibrils and Aβ plaques in the brain. LEQEMBI is the first approved treatment shown to reduce the rate of disease progression and to slow cognitive and functional decline through this mechanism.It is estimated there were approximately 900,000 dementia patients in South Korea in 2021,1 with one in ten people over the age of 65 suffering from dementia,1 and one in five from mild cognitive impairment (MCI).2 It is reported that Alzheimer’s dementia patients account for about 70% of all dementia patients.2 The average annual nursing care/medical costs per dementia patient is estimated to be 21.1 million South Korean Won (KRW), while the cost for patients with severe dementia reaches 33.1 million KRW.1Eisai serves as the lead of LEQEMBI development and regulatory submissions globally with both Eisai and Biogen co-commercializing and co-promoting the product and Eisai having final decision-making authority. In South Korea, Eisai Korea Inc. will distribute the product and conduct information provision activities.Eisai Korea Inc. has been a pioneer in the field of dementia for many years, focusing on activities such as raising disease awareness. In recent years, Eisai Korea Inc. has been working with various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, academic societies, patient groups, care centers, health checkup companies, and diagnostic companies, to create a dementia ecosystem that promotes AD awareness and early diagnosis/treatment. Eisai Korea Inc. will first launch this drug in the private market, including the establishment of a Patient Assistance Program, to deliver lecanemab to patients awaiting the treatment, aiming to make an impact not only on patients but also on their caregiving families and South Korean society.* Protofibrils are believed to contribute to the brain injury that occurs with AD and are considered to be the most toxic form of Aβ, having a primary role in the cognitive decline associated with this progressive, debilitating condition.3 Protofibrils cause injury to neurons in the brain, which in turn, can negatively impact cognitive function via multiple mechanisms, not only increasing the development of insoluble Aβ plaques but also increasing direct damage to brain cell membranes and the connections that transmit signals between nerve cells or nerve cells and other cells. It is believed the reduction of protofibrils may prevent the progression of AD by reducing damage to neurons in the brain and cognitive dysfunction.4About LecanemabLecanemab is the result of a strategic research alliance between Eisai and BioArctic. It is a humanized immunoglobulin gamma 1 (IgG1) monoclonal antibody directed against aggregated soluble (protofibril) and insoluble forms of amyloid-beta (Aβ).Lecanemab is approved in the U.S., Japan, China, South Korea, Hong Kong, Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Great Britain for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) or mild dementia stage of disease (collectively referred to as early AD). The treatment’s approvals in these countries was 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. The most common adverse events (>10%) in the lecanemab group were infusion reactions, ARIA-H (combined cerebral microhemorrhages, cerebral macrohemorrhages, and superficial siderosis), ARIA-E (edema/effusion), headache, and fall.Lecanemab is marketed in the U.S., Japan, China, Great Britain and others, and is under regulatory review in 17 countries and regions, including the European Union. In November 2024, the treatment received positive opinion from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) recommending approval.Since July 2020 the Phase 3 clinical study (AHEAD 3-45) for individuals with preclinical AD, meaning they are clinically normal and have intermediate or elevated levels of amyloid in their brains, is ongoing. AHEAD 3-45 is conducted as a public-private partnership between the Alzheimer's Clinical Trial Consortium that provides the infrastructure for academic clinical trials in AD and related dementias in the U.S, funded by the National Institute on Aging, part of the National Institutes of Health, Eisai and Biogen. Since January 2022, the Tau NexGen clinical study for Dominantly Inherited AD (DIAD), that is conducted by Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network Trials Unit (DIAN-TU), led by Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is ongoing and includes lecanemab as the backbone anti-amyloid therapy.About the Collaboration between Eisai and Biogen for ADEisai and Biogen have been collaborating on the joint development and commercialization of AD treatments since 2014. Eisai serves as the lead of lecanemab development and regulatory submissions globally with both companies co-commercializing and co-promoting the product and Eisai having final decision-making authority.About the Collaboration between Eisai and BioArctic for ADSince 2005, Eisai and BioArctic have had a long-term collaboration regarding the development and commercialization of AD treatments. Eisai obtained the global rights to study, develop, manufacture and market lecanemab for the treatment of AD pursuant to an agreement with BioArctic in December 2007. The development and commercialization agreement on the antibody back-up was signed in May 2015.About Eisai Co., Ltd. Eisai's Corporate Concept is "to give first thought to patients and people in the daily living domain, and to increase the benefits that health care provides." Under this Concept (also known as human health care (hhc) Concept), we aim to effectively achieve social good in the form of relieving anxiety over health and reducing health disparities. With a global network of R&D facilities, manufacturing sites and marketing subsidiaries, we strive to create and deliver innovative products to target diseases with high unmet medical needs, with a particular focus in our strategic areas of Neurology and Oncology. In addition, we demonstrate our commitment to the elimination of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), which is a target (3.3) of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), by working on various activities together with global partners. For more information about Eisai, please visit www.eisai.com (for global headquarters: Eisai Co., Ltd.), and connect with us on X, LinkedIn and Facebook. About Biogen Founded in 1978, Biogen is a leading biotechnology company that pioneers innovative science to deliver new medicines to transform patients’ lives and to create value for shareholders and our communities. We apply deep understanding of human biology and leverage different modalities to advance first-in-class treatments or therapies that deliver superior outcomes. Our approach is to take bold risks, balanced with return on investment to deliver long-term growth. The company routinely posts information that may be important to investors on its website at www.biogen.com. Follow Biogen on social media – Facebook, LinkedIn, X, YouTube. Biogen Safe Harbor This news release contains forward-looking statements, about the potential clinical effects of lecanemab; the potential benefits, safety and efficacy of lecanemab; potential regulatory discussions, submissions and approvals and the timing thereof; the treatment of Alzheimer's disease; the anticipated benefits and potential of Biogen's collaboration arrangements with Eisai; the potential of Biogen's commercial business and pipeline programs, including lecanemab; and risks and uncertainties associated with drug development and commercialization. These statements may be identified by words such as "aim," "anticipate," "believe," "could," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "intend," "may," "plan," "possible," "potential," "will," "would" and other words and terms of similar meaning. Drug development and commercialization involve a high degree of risk, and only a small number of research and development programs result in commercialization of a product. Results in early-stage clinical studies may not be indicative of full results or results from later stage or larger scale clinical studies and do not ensure regulatory approval. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. These statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in such statements, including without limitation unexpected concerns that may arise from additional data, analysis or results obtained during clinical studies; the occurrence of adverse safety events; risks of unexpected costs or delays; the risk of other unexpected hurdles; regulatory submissions may take longer or be more difficult to complete than expected; regulatory authorities may require additional information or further studies, or may fail or refuse to approve or may delay approval of Biogen's drug candidates, including lecanemab; actual timing and content of submissions to and decisions made by the regulatory authorities regarding lecanemab; uncertainty of success in the development and potential commercialization of lecanemab; failure to protect and enforce Biogen's data, intellectual property and other proprietary rights and uncertainties relating to intellectual property claims and challenges; product liability claims; and third party collaboration risks, results of operations and financial condition. The foregoing sets forth many, but not all, of the factors that could cause actual results to differ from Biogen's expectations in any forward-looking statement. Investors should consider this cautionary statement as well as the risk factors identified in Biogen's most recent annual or quarterly report and in other reports Biogen has filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. Biogen does not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements. References (1) Korean dementia observatory 2022: National Institute of Dementia (Korean) (2) Korean dementia observatory 2021: National Institute of Dementia (Korean) (3) Amin L, Harris DA. Aβ receptors specifically recognize molecular features displayed by fibril ends and neurotoxic oligomers. Nat Commun. 2021;12:3451. doi:10.1038/s41467-021-23507-z (4) Ono K, Tsuji M. Protofibrils of Amyloid-β are Important Targets of a Disease-Modifying Approach for Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci. 2020;21(3):952. doi: 10.3390/ijms21030952. PMID: 32023927; PMCID: PMC7037706.MEDIA CONTACTSEisai Co., Ltd.Public Relations DepartmentTEL: +81 (0)3-3817-5120Eisai Inc. (U.S.)Julie Edelman+1 201-753-1945INVESTOR CONTACTSEisai Co., Ltd.Investor Relations Department TEL: +81 (0)70-8688-9685Biogen Inc.Jack Cox+1 781-464-3260public.affairs@biogen.com Biogen Inc.Stephen Amato+1 781-464-2442IR@biogen.com Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Nov 28, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi High-Tech Corporation ("Hitachi High-Tech") announced today the launch of its DCR(1) Etch System 9060Series. This system, which leverages Hitachi High-Tech's plasma etching(2) technology and expertise, has been developed to achieve precise control over the horizontal (isotropic) etching process in dry environments, aimed at applications such as the high-aspect(3) three-dimensional structures used in advanced semiconductor devices.With the 9060 Series, Hitachi High-Tech will support manufacturing process advancements for cutting-edge semiconductor devices, which are becoming increasingly minute and more complex, and will help customers toovercome the challenges they face, from R&D through to mass production.Product Development BackgroundSemiconductor devices have become increasingly miniaturized over the past half century and beyond, with the processing dimensions of integrated circuits now at nanometric levels. This, in turn, necessitates controllability over the etching process at the atomic-layer (angstrom) level. In addition, the likes of 3D-NAND(4) and 3D-DRAM*5structures are used for semiconductor memory devices to improve density by making the elemental structure three- dimensional. As a result, the dry etching process used to manufacture semiconductor memory devices requires isotropic (horizontal, even) etching, which is precisely controlled at the atomic-layer level, in addition to conventional anisotropic (vertical) etching.The 9060 Series maintains the low-damage, high-precision plasma etching technology cultivated by Hitachi High-Tech over many years while achieving isotropic etching at the atomic-layer level, thereby helping our customers whomanufacture advanced semiconductors with highly integrated three-dimensional structures by shortening development periods, reducing costs, and improving productivity.Key Features1. Achieves high throughput processing and low equipment footprint*6Typically, when performing isotropic etching in dry environments, it is necessary to alternate between low temperatures for adsorption of radicals*7 and high temperatures for thermal desorption, which means time is requiredfor heating and cooling. To resolve this problem, the 9060 Series incorporates a unique wafer-cooling mechanism andinfrared lamp within a single vacuum reactor, enabling the temperature of the wafer being etched to quickly alternate between low and high temperatures. This enables high-throughput isotropic etching of various materials and lowers the footprint of the equipment.2. Achieves high-precision isotropic processingIn addition to isotropic processing through heating and cooling via the wafer-cooling mechanism and infrared lamp, the system also utilizes plasma etching technology—one of Hitachi High-Tech's strengths—to achieve isotropic processing with high surface reaction speed and highly precise control. This makes it possible to control the shape of the openings and bottom of the wafer pattern at the atomic level, which is essential to fabricate detailed three-dimensional structures.With the 9060 Series as well as our other high-performance etch systems and technology, Hitachi High-Tech iscontinuing to respond to our customers' various manufacturing needs for the development and mass production of semiconductor devices.We will continue to provide innovative and digitally enhanced solutions to our products for the upcoming technology challenges, and create new value together with our customers, as well as contributing to cutting-edge manufacturing.(1) DCR (dry chemical removal): A method used to advance both vertical and horizontal etching by utilizing chemical reactions in a dry environment.(2) Plasma etching: A technique used to fabricate detailed patterns using ions and chemical reactions by separating gases in a vacuum chamber.(3) High-aspect: Generally, refers to the aspect ratio of a rectangle. Here, it refers to the ratio of depth to width (depth/width) of patterns to be etched on wafers. A high aspect means this ratio is a high value, which makes it very difficult to manufacture and measure.(4) 3D-NAND structure: A type of non-volatile flash memory. Refers to a NAND flash memory in which memory cells are arranged vertically as well as horizontally to increase storage density.(5) 3D-DRAM structure: A type of volatile memory. A structure in which bits are stored vertically to achieve high density.(6) Footprint: The amount of space taken up by a piece of equipment.(7) Radical: An atom or molecule with unpaired electrons. Characterized by high reactivity.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, visithttps://www.hitachi-hightech.com/global/en/ContactKazuki HigashiyamaProcess Marketing & Planning Dept., Semiconductor ManufacturingSystems Div., Nano-Technology Solution Business Group, Hitachi High-Tech CorporationE-mail: kazuki.higashiyama.wt@hitachi-hightech.com Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Nov 28, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has completed the delivery of the final trainset of the "2020 Series" Automated Guideway Transit (AGT) system (Note1) for the "New Shuttle" transportation system operated by Saitama New Urban Transit Co., Ltd. in Saitama Prefecture. A total of six trainsets of the 2020 Series have entered service to date.From FY2015 to FY2020, MHI delivered the first five trainsets of the 2020 Series (six cars per trainset, for a total 30 cars) to replace the existing cars of "New Shuttle". In this sixth and final trainset, inspired by the concept of the 2020 Series, "Bringing brilliance along the railway line with seven jewels," MHI added Blue Sapphire and Chrysoberyl as line colors on the side of the car and on the roof, for a total of seven colors depicting the transport line's radiant future.In addition to superior design that won the Japan Institute of Design Promotion's Good Design Award in 2016 (Note2), MHI has also incorporated improvements such as the addition of wheelchair spaces, enhanced ventilation and heating capabilities to create an even more comfortable riding experience. Furthermore, MHI has made it easier to operate and maintain the carriages, reflecting the opinions of operators collected through the extensive AGT system deliveries in Japan and around the world. By delivering carriages that combine excellent design and environmental performance, MHI will contribute to improve the image of the line.Building on the successful completion of the 2020 Series AGT, MHI Group will continue to deliver AGT systems with excellent design, economic efficiency and capability to reduce CO2 emissions to transportation systems around the world. MHI Group aims to provide solutions to regional issues including economic development and improved transportation convenience, while contributing to the realization of a carbon-neutral society. In addition, as a trusted partner, MHI will continue to provide exceptional solutions combining intelligence and technology.About Saitama New Urban TransportationSaitama New Urban Transit Co., Ltd. is a third-sector enterprise backed primarily by Saitama Prefecture and East Japan Railway Company (JR East). The New Shuttle line was inaugurated in December 1983. It currently encompasses 13 stations (Omiya in Saitama City to Uchijuku in Ina Town) spanning some 13 kilometers. As a transport system linking these suburbs with hospitals, schools and businesses in central Tokyo, the New Shuttle is playing an ever more important role in the lives of local residents. An unusual feature of the New Shuttle line is its minimum turning radius of only 25 meters, enabling S-curve operation through intersections without affecting ambient buildings. The adoption of rubber tires enables low noise and vibration-for minimal impact on the surrounding environment.(1) For more details on the 2020 series AGT System, please refer to the following press www.mhi.com/news/190212.html(2) For details on the 2016 Good Design Award, please refer to the following press release. www.mhi.com/news/1609292012.htmlTags: transportation systemAbout 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, Nov 26, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) is set to take on the upcoming Dakar Rally with a strong six-car team, combining the expertise and talent of both TOYOTA GAZOO Racing and TOYOTA GAZOO Racing South Africa (TGRSA). Along with TEAM LAND CRUISER TOYOTA AUTO BODY (TLC) and HINO TEAM SUGAWARA, they are ready for the challenge of the 2025 Dakar Rally.TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR)This year, for Dakar 2025, the team’s approach consists of two distinct components. The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing crew, representing Toyota Motor Europe, features rising stars Lucas Moraes with co-driver Armand Monleon, and Seth Quintero with co-driver Dennis Zenz. This youthful duo embodies TGR’s philosophy of nurturing young talent, providing them with unparalleled experience and opportunities to develop in the world of rally-raid.Building on their success in the 2024 World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC), where Lucas Moraes and Seth Quintero contributed to Toyota’s victory in the Manufacturer’s Championship, the team heads to the Dakar with a determination to carry the momentum from the W2RC win forward into the new year. As the opening round of the 2025 W2RC season, the Dakar Rally is critical to setting the tone for the championship, making a strong result vital for the team’s title aspirations.The 2025 Dakar Rally also marks a strengthened partnership with Repsol, who remains a key sponsor to TGR. This partnership reflects TGR’s dedication to sustainable innovation. Repsol demonstrates its expertise in renewable fuels playing a key role in Toyota’s multi-path technology strategy. Supporting a future towards carbon neutrality in motorsports. The Repsol brand will be proudly displayed on the TGR cars and team apparel, symbolizing a shared vision for sustainable motorsport that drives forward the pursuit of renewable energy solutions.TOYOTA GAZOO Racing South Africa (TGRSA)TOYOTA GAZOO Racing South Africa (TGRSA) will field a four-car team, including Giniel de Villiers partnered with Dirk von Zitzewitz, Henk Lategan with co-driver Brett Cummings, Guy Botterill with co-driver Dennis Murphy, and Saood Variawa with co-driver Francois Cazalet.Combining the TGR and TGRSA teams brings a comprehensive six-car line-up and forms one of the most versatile and balanced teams to the 2025 Dakar Rally, combining youthful energy with decades of experience in a single outfit.For the full press release, visit https://toyotagazooracing.com/dakar/release/2024/1126-01/.About Toyota Toyota strives to be a strong corporate citizen, engaging with and earning the trust of its stakeholders, and to contribute to the creation of a prosperous society through all its business operations.Our corporate principles form the basis of our initiatives, reflect values that enable action, and drive our mindset.For the latest Toyota-related news and information:https://tinyurl.com/ToyotaPressReleasenewsroom@global.toyota Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Nov 26, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. and Biogen Japan Ltd. announced today that Eisai has entered into a research collaboration agreement with the National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry to conduct apolipoprotein E (APOE) genetic testing in the dementia research and development program, “Development and Analysis of a National Clinical Registry of Disease-Modifying Therapies for Alzheimer’s Disease” (“AD-DMT Registry”). The research will be implemented by the Japan Agency forMedical Research and Development (AMED), with NCNP as the lead research institution.The APOE gene is known to be a risk factor for the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and is also associated with the frequency of amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) in anti-amyloid β antibody treatments such as lecanemab (LEQEMBI®).(1)In Japan, at present, APOE genetic testing is not available for routine clinical practice under National Health Insurance. For thisreason, by using APOE genetic information collected in the AD-DMT Registry, Eisai and NCNP can further study the relationship between the APOE genotype and the safety and efficacy of treatment with lecanemab.Based on this research collaboration agreement with NCNP, Eisai will cover the cost of the APOE genetic testing conducted in the AD-DMT Registry. The findings, along with data collected from the lecanemab-specific post-marketing surveillance (all-casesurveillance), will be part of the reexamination of lecanemab’s application by the Japanese Pharmaceuticals and MedicalDevices Agency (PMDA) to ensure the label reflects the latest scientific understanding with the goal of improving patientoutcomes.Eisai and Biogen Japan will continue to contribute to the advancement of Alzheimer’s disease treatment through ongoing collaboration with academia.Eisai serves as the lead of lecanemab development and regulatory submissions globally with both Eisai and Biogen Inc. (U.S.)co-commercializing and co-promoting the product and Eisai having final decision- making authority. In Japan, Eisai and Biogen Japan will co-promote lecanemab, with Eisai distributing the product as the Marketing Authorization Holder.(1) Foley KE and Wilcock DM (2024). Three major effects of APOEε4 on Aβ immunotherapy induced ARIA. Front. Aging Neurosci. 16:1412006. doi: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1412006About the “Development and Analysis of a National Clinical Registry of Disease-Modifying Therapies for Alzheimer’s Disease”The National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP) is the lead research institution for the dementia research and development program “Development and Analysis of a National Clinical Registry of Disease-Modifying Therapies for Alzheimer’s Disease” under the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED). The research is being conducted with the aim of collecting clinical information and test data obtained from routine medical care using treatments including anti-amyloid β antibody drugs such as lecanemab, evaluate the efficacy and safety of these drugs, and perform blood sampling for APOE genotyping and measurement of other biomarkers in patients receiving the drugs. Some of theseresults will be reported to the participating patients, and the safety and efficacy of the drugs will be examined based on APOE genotype and other factors. Eisai plans to conduct large-scale and efficient research by sharing data of patients who have given their consent from the specific post-marketing surveillance.For more details on AMED's dementia research and development program, please visit the AMED website.About EisaiEisai's Corporate Concept is "to give first thought to patients and people in the daily living domain, and to increase thebenefits that health care provides." Under this Concept (also known as human health care (hhc) Concept), we aim toeffectively achieve social good in the form of relieving anxiety over health and reducing health disparities. With a global network of R&D facilities, manufacturing sites and marketing subsidiaries, we strive to create and deliver innovative products to target diseases with high unmet medical needs, with a particular focus in our strategic areas of Neurology, Oncology and Global Health.Theoria technologies Co., Ltd., a member of the Eisai Group, operates the dementia portal site "Theotol" (https://theotol.soudan-e65.com/), which provides easy-to-understand contents and services for the general public aboutMCI and various types of dementia, their causes, treatments, as well as caregiving methods and personal experiences. (Japanese only)About Biogen JapanFounded in 1978, Biogen is a leading biotechnology company that pioneers innovative science to deliver new medicines to transform patients’ lives and to create value for shareholders and our communities. We apply deep understanding ofhuman biology and leverage different modalities to advance first-in-class treatments or therapies that deliver superior outcomes. Our approach is to take bold risks, balanced with return on investment to deliver long-term growth.We routinely post information on Biogen Japan that may be important to investors on our website at https://www.biogen.com/ and social media Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, LINE.Media Contacts:Eisai Co., Ltd.Public Relations Department TEL: +81 (0)3-3817-5120Biogen Japan, Ltd.Corporate AffairsTEL: ＋81-70-1501-4315E-mail: Japan-PA@biogen.com Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

KAWASAKI, Japan, Nov 26, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu today announced that it has developed Policy Twin, a new digital twin technology to simulate the social impact of local government policies. Fujitsu will start offering Policy Twin to support effective and efficient service delivery in municipal preventive healthcare services on December 6, 2024 via the Fujitsu Research Portal (1), Fujitsu’s environment that offers users the opportunity to try out Fujitsu's advanced technologies.Fujitsu’s newly developed technology recreates previously successful local government policies on a digital twin and uses data to generate new policy candidates and gauge effectiveness.During field trials in preventive healthcare projects, the new technology enabled the creation of policy candidates that doubled both the medical expense cost-savings and the improvement of health indicators achieved through health guidance compared to the previous year, while meeting resourcing requirements. This demonstrated the technology’s ability to create policies that achieve multiple objectives simultaneously, potentially shortening planning times and facilitating consensus building.Fujitsu aims to launch a service for the healthcare and medical sector in Japan utilizing the newly developed digital twin technology by fiscal year 2025. Furthermore, by leveraging this technology in its Uvance Wayfinders consulting services, Fujitsu aims to digitalize stakeholder initiatives and contribute to solving societal challenges, inlcuding service restructuring to address workforce shortages, disaster prevention and mitigation, and enhancing supply chain resilience.Policy Twin OverviewFujitsu has been developing Social Digital Twin (2), a group of technologies that incorporate the latest insights from behavioral economics into ICT, including AI, to support solutions for complex societal challenges. This involves developing digital rehearsal technology capable of accurately recreating human behavior on a digital twin and predicting the effect/impact of policies.Building on this digital rehearsal technology, Policy Twin leverages empirical economics, the science of using data to understand how to best allocate resources, to preemptively assess and compare the effectiveness of digitally recreated local government policies on a digital twin, enabling effectiveness maximization and comparative analysis.The process of using Policy Twin to identify effective policies is as follows:1) Convert written policies into flowchart format: Assisted by large language models (LLMs), publicly available municipal policy documents are converted into a machine-readable flowchart format (Figure 1). This format includes the services provided (health guidance, clinic visit recommendations, etc.) and uses conditional branches to narrow down the target recipients (i.e., conditions related to blood glucose levels or kidney disorders). This allows for comparison of the flow differences between policies of multiple similar municipalities, taking into account geographical characteristics and demographic composition.2) Generate new policy flowchart candidates: As shown in Figure 2, new flowchart candidates are reconfigured by referencing the flowcharts of successful policies from multiple municipalities and combining parts of the conditional branches and services provided. During this process, the resource allocation examination process of empirical economics is referenced, and the combination of flowcharts is selected based on constraints such as the limited allocation range of resources (i.e., service usage capacity).3) Simulate service provision: For each generated flowchart candidate, a simulation is run using techniques including machine learning that considers human behavioral choices (proprietary behavioral choice model) (3) and past data to determine which conditional branches people pass through and what services are ultimately provided. Furthermore, it calculates how target indicators, such as health indicators, medical costs, and resources, will change for the municipalities. When the accuracy of the simulation was verified for a preventive healthcare project in a certain municipality, it was confirmed that the number of health guidance cases calculated by the Policy Twin based on Japanese National Health Insurance data matched the actual values within a 5% margin of error. In this way, multiple indicators are simulated for each of the multiple flowchart candidates, and the flowchart candidate with the maximum indicators is selected.Future ImpactFujitsu anticipates that utilizing the Policy Twin for more effective preventive healthcare policy making allows municipalities to simultaneously achieve improvements in resident health, cost savings, and disease prevention, ultimately contributing to improved well-being. As the Policy Twin can also demonstrate the rationale behind the proposed policies, it can facilitate consensus-building among diverse stakeholders and support its implementation in society. Furthermore, employing this technology across multiple municipalities is expected to lead to best practice creation, mutual referencing of policies between municipalities, and application towards the standardization of policies.(1) Fujitsu Research Portal :Portal site that has been open to the public since June 2023 to provide registered users access to trial versions of Fujitsu’s advanced technologies.(2) Social Digital Twin :Group of technologies to digitally recreate not only the states of both people and objects, but also economic and social activities, based on real-world data. The Social Digital Twin aims to facilitate the understanding of the mechanisms that cause societal problems and solve increasingly complex and diverse issues.(3) Behavioral choice model :The technology combines prospect theory, one of the leading theories in behavioral economics, and machine learning. It can express differences in choices among people while maintaining behavioral characteristics common to many people.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.

Toyota City, Japan, Nov 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team has presented its line-up for the 2025 FIA World Rally Championship season as it further strengthens its squad of drivers with a mix of young talent and title-winning experience.After winning eight out of 13 rallies in 2024 and claiming a fourth consecutive manufacturers’ championship at the season-ending Rally Japan, TGR-WRT will enter 2025 with the mission to defend its crown and fight for the drivers’ and co-drivers’ titles. It will be able to count on an expanded line-up of cars and drivers, with four or five GR Yaris Rally1 entries set to appear on each event.Joining the team to start his first full season at the highest level will be Sami Pajari, following an impressive 2024 season in which he won the WRC2 drivers’ championship driving the GR Yaris Rally2 car and performed well in his first three outings in Rally1 machinery in Finland, Chile and Central Europe. The 22-year-old from Finland’s promotion demonstrates TGR-WRT’s commitment to developing young drivers as well as the GR Yaris Rally2’s role in providing a pathway to the top of the sport.Pajari, who will confirm the identity of his co-driver in due course, is one of four drivers who are set to feature on every rally.Double world champions Kalle Rovanperä and Jonne Halttunen will return to competing full-time with the team in 2025 after taking four wins from seven starts during a partial campaign this year. Elfyn Evans and co-driver Scott Martin, winners of last weekend’s Rally Japan, continue for their sixth successive season with the team, with Takamoto Katsuta and Aaron Johnston also returning for another year. Eight-time world champion Sébastien Ogier and co-driver Vincent Landais will once more contest a partial schedule of selected events after scoring three victories this season.TGR-WRT is pleased to confirm that Jari-Matti Latvala will continue in the role of Team Principal. In the last four seasons, in addition to overseeing numerous victories and championship titles, Latvala has been a trusted associate for the team’s drivers while also helping to identify and develop new talent such as Pajari.As part of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s driver-first approach, Latvala has also been given the opportunity by Akio Toyoda, TGR-WRT Chairman, to continue pursuing his first love of driving alongside his duties of Team Principal – for example, competing in Rally Finland with a GR Yaris Rally1 in 2023 and GR Yaris Rally2 in 2024. This will continue in 2025 when Latvala will drive one of the most successful Toyota rally cars – the Celica ST185 – in the FIA European Historic Rally Championship. He will do so in the colours of TGR, helping to connect the eras of Toyota participation in WRC and further share its passion for rallying with fans.In order to best support the team and ensure the continuation of the successful driver-first approach, Juha Kankkunen will take up the role of Deputy Team Principal. A four-time world champion, who won the last of his titles driving the Toyota Celica ST185 in 1993, Kankkunen will bring considerable experience of success to share with the drivers and other team members. He already knows the team well, having attended several events in an ambassadorial role over the past few years.Team nameTOYOTA GAZOO Racing WRT (World Rally Team)ChairmanAkio ToyodaTeam PrincipalJari-Matti Latvala (Finland)Deputy Team PrincipalJuha Kankkunen (Finland)VehicleGR Yaris Rally1 (length 4207mm; width 1875mm)EngineGI4BTyresHankookDriver/Co-driverDriverElfyn Evans (UK)Co-driverScott Martin (UK)DriverSébastien Ogier (France)Co-driverVincent Landais (France)DriverKalle Rovanperä (Finland)Co-driverJonne Halttunen (Finland)DriverTakamoto Katsuta (Japan)Co-driverAaron Johnston (Ireland)DriverSami Pajari (Finland)Co-driverTBCQuotes:Jari-Matti Latvala (Team Principal):“The 2024 season presented new challenges for our team, but we continued to perform at a high level and kept fighting until the final day to successfully retain our manufacturers’ title. For 2025, we are really happy to continue with the same drivers who have been performing strongly for us over recent seasons, and to have more drivers strengthening our efforts for the full championship. It’s also great to welcome Sami Pajari to our line-up thanks to the investment that we are making to develop young drivers. Sami has made great steps this year and we are confident that he’s ready to move up to the highest level. Personally, I’m very excited to have the opportunity to combine my role as Team Principal with my passion for driving, competing with the legendary Toyota Celica, and I’m really pleased that Juha Kankkunen will take on the role of Deputy Team Principal to support me and the team on WRC events: he knows the team well and brings a lot of experience to the role.”Juha Kankkunen (Deputy Team Principal):“It is a great pleasure for me to take on this role with the team. During my career I drove with many different teams but I had nine years in total with Toyota: it was the first manufacturer to give me an opportunity in the WRC, and I believe it is probably the best team in the world. There are very good people and the cooperation has always been excellent between Europe and Japan. This team spirit and teamwork is very important and everybody is pushing together. I have a good relationship with Akio Toyoda, having been driving together with him in demonstration events in the last few years, and also with Jari-Matti, who is a great person and very easy to talk with. I’m really happy to work more closely with them and to help the team where I can.”Elfyn Evans:“I’m very happy to continue with TGR-WRT next year. Since 2020 we’ve had some great seasons together, and although 2024 could have been even more successful, I know that there’s still a lot of potential in the team and I feel I have plenty more to give as well. So I’m looking forward to continuing our partnership. We know that we need to keep working hard together and hopefully we can achieve more good results in the future.”Kalle Rovanperä:“I’m really excited that I will be driving in the full WRC season again next year. This year has been quite different for me, driving a few different cars and still winning some rallies at the same time. It’s been a nice year, but it’s also given me a lot of motivation to return for the full season, to push together with Jonne for the drivers’ and co-drivers’ titles and do our best with the team to win the manufacturers’ championship too.”Sébastien Ogier:“It’s really exciting to remain with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing for 2025. We have already had five very fantastic seasons together with a lot of victories and success and I’m really looking forward to continuing this story. Once again my main goal is to give my support to the team in the manufacturers’ championship in a partial programme, and hopefully we can manage to win all three titles. Let’s keep pushing the limits together.”Takamoto Katsuta:“I’m really happy that I will continue driving with the team in 2025. It has been a challenging season for me this year, and I want to thank the team and everyone who has been supporting me in the difficult moments. I feel I have shown my speed on most of the rallies, so the confidence is growing and I just need to find the right rhythm through every rally: this is my main target next year. If everything goes well, I’m sure I can fight for more podiums.”Sami Pajari:“This is a dream come true for me and I’m really grateful to TOYOTA GAZOO Racing and the team for giving me this amazing opportunity. There have also been many important people who have been helping me and making this possible. It has been an incredible year for us in the GR Yaris Rally2 and in our first events in the Rally1 car, and although we have now reached the place we were aiming for, I also know that this is where the hard work really starts to learn and to push for good results in the future.”TGR WRC Challenge ProgramThe TGR WRC Challenge Program started in 2015 aiming to develop professional rally drivers who can compete on the world stage, following in the footsteps of Takamoto Katsuta. The program’s second-generation drivers Hikaru Kogure and Yuki Yamamoto will both continue in 2025. It will be their second season driving the GR Yaris Rally2 car on events, including WRC2 rounds, after gaining valuable experience this year.A third generation of drivers, Shotaro Goto and Takumi Matsushita, were selected to join the program ahead of 2024. Having now taken part in their first rallies in Europe in Rally4 cars, they will continue their training in 2025 with a step up to four-wheel drive Rally3 machinery.The process to select a fourth intake of young drivers is underway. Following an initial selection event at Fuji Speedway, seven drivers will take part in the final selection in Finland in December.DriverHikaru Kogure (Japan)DriverYuki Yamamoto (Japan)DriverShotaro Goto (Japan)DriverTakumi Matsushita (Japan) Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Nov 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) has submitted a progress report on measures to prevent recurrence of model certification application issues to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) today in light of the correction order the ministry issued on July 31. This report, summarizing actions taken to date, is the first of a series of quarterly reports.Response to the correction orderWe are reviewing our mechanisms and systems to increase legal compliance awareness among all employees and to enable them to do their work in a correct manner. This incident prompted management to make more frequent visits to the genba. Through this process, we found that we were not taking the necessary steps at the necessary times, including decisions on managing aging equipment. Going forward, management will make swift decisions on actions required in the medium to long term and will share that information with all employees. Through a series of such initiatives, we aim to be the company of choice for our customers.Specific progress of measures to prevent recurrenceWe are promoting on-site management to drive development and certification work. We have also implemented measures to remedy any issues identified through that process.- To be able to take appropriate actions immediately when abnormalities are found, management is visiting the genba in person to learn about the actual situation to create the appropriate environments and allocate resources needed for Human Development, Monozukuri and Strengthening Foundations.- We have reviewed responsibilities and processes so that appropriate management can be made at each stage of development and certification application.- We have introduced education programs to improve management's understanding of certification rules and its awareness of compliance.- The Legal Supervisor is attending internal certification tests and shares audit results with management.- We have established means for appropriate storage and handling of certification-related data.- We are using digital technology to automatically generate test results (to reduce human errors and workloads, etc.).- We are pursuing improvement of compliance awareness in development and certification departments using educational environments, including the Quality Learning Center, and by offering e-learning opportunities to all employees.Through Toyota's company-wide TPS training program for Certification Work, we are also working to develop a corporate culture across the Toyota Group to address fundamental challenges in development. We are treating this as an opportunity to review not only our development and certification operations but the way we work in every process, from planning to sales. In this regard, we are currently conducting kaizen activities, fully considering the effect on prior to and post processes.To once again gain the trust of our stakeholders, we will make company-wide efforts to prevent the recurrence of these issues.About Toyota Toyota strives to be a strong corporate citizen, engaging with and earning the trust of its stakeholders, and to contribute to the creation of a prosperous society through all its business operations.Our corporate principles form the basis of our initiatives, reflect values that enable action, and drive our mindset.For the latest Toyota-related news and information:https://tinyurl.com/ToyotaPressReleasenewsroom@global.toyota Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Nov 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, Ltd. (MHI Thermal Systems), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has received an order from Aisan Industry Co., Ltd. (Obu-shi, Aichi Prefecture) for a large-scale Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) system for the company's new Anjo Plant (tentative name). The project will be the first practical application of an ATES system in the Chubu region. MHI Thermal Systems' ATES system, including heat pump-type centrifugal chillers, is highly regarded for its energy-saving performance, optimal control technology, and operational performance. The order was placed through Obayashi Corporation, which is responsible for the construction of the plant. This project will be MHI Thermal Systems' first practical application of an ATES system outside of the Kansai region, and the fifth implementation site in Japan, including demonstration testing and social implementation.Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) systemThe ETI-Z25.HP heat pump-type centrifugal chiller to be utilized for this system has a cooling capacity of 234 refrigeration tons (RT)(Note1) (823 kW) per unit, and can provide both hot and cold water supply. The refrigerant used is HFO-1233zd(E), which has a Global Warming Potential (GWP)(Note2) of 1 (one), giving it an extremely low environmental impact. The ATES system will be used for air conditioning at the plant, and is scheduled to start operations in the winter of 2025. Compared to conventional air conditioning systems, the adoption of high-efficiency centrifugal chillers, along with the utilization of control technologies such as automatic switching of optimal operating modes, can be expected to reduce annual CO2emissions by approximately 50%.(Note3) Recognition of these features led to the selection of the system by Ministry of the Environment for the Fiscal 2023 (Supplementary Budget) Subsidy for CO2 Emission Control Measures Project Expenses.(Note4)An ATES system uses gravel and groundwater stored in aquifers deep underground as an enormous heat storage tank, allowing for the effective use of energy by enabling the circulation of heat across seasons, such as using the cold waste heat from winter heating for summer cooling, and the warm waste heat from summer cooling for winter heating. MHI Thermal Systems' ATES system received the "Energy Conservation Center, Japan Chairman's Award" in the "Best Practice Category" at the 2021 Energy Conservation Grand Prize,(Note5) and the "HPTCJ Promotion Award" at the 2022 "Demand Side Management Awards".(Note6)Aisan Industry's new Anjo Plant (tentative name) aims to 1) achieve carbon neutrality for the entire plant, 2) establish a high value-added work style that furthers the realization of DX, and 3) provide new value. The plant is also pursuing innovative manufacturing, such as the building and operation of fully automated lines that run 24 hours a day, including logistics, highly efficient production activities with collaborative robots in which workers and robots work alongside each other, and quality assurance that makes full use of digital data and IoT. In this context, MHI Thermal Systems will support the company's energy circulation initiatives aimed at achieving carbon neutrality, from the standpoint of utilizing natural energy with an optimally controlled ATES system.MHI Thermal Systems has delivered many centrifugal chillers for district heating and cooling and factory air conditioning, and boasts the top market share in Japan in these fields. Going forward, MHI Thermal Systems will continue to respond to customer needs, and through the delivery of centrifugal chillers and air conditioning systems that have a low impact on the global environment, contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral world.(1) refrigeration ton = approx. 3.516 kW(2) Global Warming Potential (GWP) is a coefficient, with CO2 fixed at a GWP of 1.0. Smaller values indicate greater environmental performance.(3) Compared to a gas absorption cold/hot water heater with similar capacity.(4) As part of the Fiscal 2023 (Supplementary Budget) Subsidy for CO2 Emission Control Measures Project Expenses (Projects to Promote the Mainstreaming of Renewable Energy and Strengthening of Resilience by Private Companies), selected from among projects to promote the introduction of renewable energy and cost reductions using new methods for Projects to Support Cost Reductions in the Use and Generation of Renewable Energy Heat "Equipment Introduction Project B."(5) For further information regarding the receipt of the "Energy Conservation Center, Japan Chairman's Award" sponsored by the Energy Conservation Center, Japan (ECCJ), see the following press release. www.mhi.com/news/211222.html(6) For further information regarding the receipt of the "HPTCJ Promotion Award" at the 2022 "Demand Side Management Awards" sponsored by the Heat Pump & Thermal Storage Technology Center of Japan (HPTCJ), see the following press release. www.mhi.com/news/22060301.htmlAbout 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, Nov 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Max Verstappen, driver for Oracle Red Bull Racing, for which Honda is a team partner, clinched his fourth consecutive F1 drivers’ world championship on Sunday, November 23 local time in the Las Vegas Grand Prix(1), the 22nd round of the 2024 FIA*2 Formula One (F1) World Championship. For this season, as a team partner, Honda has been providing technical support and cooperating in marketing activities with Oracle Red Bull Racing and Visa Cash App RB. As part of the technical support, Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) is manufacturing and supplying all power unit (PU) components except for the ESS*3 to Red Bull Powertrains*4 and supporting the operations of the PUs throughout the season.(1) Official event name: Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix 2024*2 Fédération Internationale de lʼAutomobile.*3 Energy Storage System, the battery system that stores recovered electric energy.*4 A Red Bull Group company that produces F1 power units. For the current version of the PUs, PBPT is responsible for producing and operating the ESS.Comment of Koji Watanabe, President of Honda Racing Corporation (HRC)“Max, congratulations on your fourth consecutive Drivers’ Championship! It has been five years since your first victory with the Honda power unit at the 2019 Austrian Grand Prix. On top of your ‘fast’ and ‘strong’ driver capability, you have certainly added “toughness” that turns critical situations into opportunities. The remarkable achievement of winning former race at the São Paulo Grand Prix from the 17th grid truly endorses your development. Honda and HRC are proud to be able to support your fourth consecutive title, and HRC will continue to be dedicated to providing support to you, Max, and both the Oracle Red Bull Racing and Visa Cash App RB Formula One Team while aiming at even greater heights in the future.”Max VerstappenDate of Birth30 September 1997 (age 27)NationalityDutchPlace of BirthBelgiumHeight181 cmWeight72 kgRacing Career20143rd in FIA European Formula 3 Championship2015Debut F1 as the youngest F1 driver ever (17 years and 166 days.) 12th in Formula One Drivers’ Championship20165th in Formula One Drivers’ Championship. First win in Rd.5 Spain marked youngest win in F1 history (18 years and 228 days)20176th in Formula One Drivers’ Championship20184th in Formula One Drivers’ Championship20193rd in Formula One Drivers’ Championship. Win in Rd.9 Austria marked 1st win for Honda in Hybrid Era20203rd in Formula One Drivers’ Championship2021Formula One World Drivers’ Champion. Brought the first drivers’ title for Honda for the first time in 30 years since 19912022Formula One World Drivers’ Champion2023Formula One World Drivers’ Champion2024Formula One World Drivers’ Champion Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.