Furuya Metal and Asahi Kasei Embark on Demonstration Trial Regarding Recycling of Metals for Chlor-alkali Electrolysis Cells and Electrodes JCN Newswire

Furuya Metal and Asahi Kasei Embark on Demonstration Trial Regarding Recycling of Metals for Chlor-alkali Electrolysis Cells and Electrodes

April 23, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 23, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Furuya Metal Co., Ltd. (Head office: Toshima-ku, Tokyo; President: Takahito Furuya; “Furuya Metal”) and Asahi Kasei Corp. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President and Representative Director: Koshiro Kudo; “Asahi Kasei”) have, in collaboration with Nobian Industrial Chemicals B.V. (Head office: Amersfoort, the Netherlands; Chief Executive Officer: Michael Koenig; “Nobian”) and Mastermelt Ltd (Head office: London, United Kingdom; Chief Executive Officer: Rick Reidinger; “Mastermelt”), embarked on a demonstration trial regarding the recycling of metals used for chlor-alkali*1 electrolysis cells and the electrodes within those cells (hereinafter, “cells and electrodes”). Through this initiative, Furuya Metal will strive to build an ecosystem in the chlor-alkali industry using rare metal recycling.Concept of cell and electrode metal recycling process undertaken through the four companies' collaborationRare metals such as iridium and ruthenium are used in the electrodes of chlor-alkali electrolysis cells. Excellent in aspects such as heat resistance, chemical resistance, and electrical conductivity, iridium and ruthenium are expanding in application as industrial materials in various industries, such as electronics, semiconductor, and even industries such as green hydrogen and energy. Furuya Metal has been handling these metals over a span of 40 years, from raw material procurement to ultra-high-purity refining technologies, as well as sophisticated processing technologies and recycling technologies and capabilities. This allows the company to supply many customers, gaining a high global share. Demand for iridium and ruthenium is rising year after year, and due to their high rarity, so far, Furuya Metal has been working on efficient use through recycling over many years to achieve stable supply of these metals.In the chlor-alkali industry, securing a stable supply of rare metals and efficient reuse are becoming issues of growing importance. Furuya Metal will contribute toward the establishment of a precious metal recycling process in the chlor-alkali industry through this initiative.In this initiative, first, Asahi Kasei will collect electrodes that have reached the end of their service life from Nobian. Next, at Mastermelt and Furuya Metal, separation of catalysts from electrodes and processing of separated catalysts in preparation for the next process will be carried out, and precious metals will be extracted from the separated catalysts and purified to a higher level. Then, Asahi Kasei will manufacture electrodes coated with catalysts that use these precious metals as raw materials (hereinafter, “recycled-catalyst electrodes”). Nobian will carry out chlor-alkali electrolysis using these recycled-catalyst electrodes, allowing resource circulation in the manufacturing of caustic soda and chlorine. In this way, the four companies will collaborate to promote the establishment of a recycling process that recovers and reuses metals—including precious metals—from used cells and electrodes.Furuya Metal will continue to provide an efficient and stable supply of iridium and ruthenium and expand the applications of iridium and ruthenium in even more industries to contribute to the development of a digital society and a green society.About Asahi Kasei Corp.For 50 years since commercializing its membrane process for chlor-alkali electrolysis in 1975, Asahi Kasei has earned a strong reputation among customers for offering superior operating performance and reliability as a supplier of all technological elements of the process. Global demand for chlor-alkali in 2024 was approximately 100 million tons*2, and Asahi Kasei’s chlor-alkali process has been adopted at more than 160 plants in 30 countries as of December 2024, with a cumulative order volume of over 30 million tons per year converted to 100% caustic soda, making Asahi Kasei a leading global process supplier. The membrane process for chlor-alkali electrolysis produces chlorine, hydrogen, and caustic soda by electrolyzing brine using ion-exchange membranes. It eliminates the need to use environmentally hazardous mercury or asbestos as process materials, and enables greater energy efficiency. The combination of low-voltage membranes and electrolyzers developed with advanced Asahi Kasei technology reduces CO2 emissions by lowering power consumption in the electrolysis process.*1 A process of electrolyzing sodium chloride solutions to produce chlorine and caustic soda, both of which are used for various end applications, including organic and inorganic materials, pharmaceuticals, soaps, and detergents.*2 2024 World Analysis – Chlor-Alkali – Appendix (August 4, 2023)For inquiries regarding this press release, please contact:General Affairs & CSR Department, Furuya Metal Co., Ltd.Telephone: +81-3-5977-3377E-mail: ir@furuyametals.co.jpPress release: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/20250423_EN.pdf Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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A Decade of Olympus India’s Commitment to Community Welfare JCN Newswire

A Decade of Olympus India’s Commitment to Community Welfare

April 22, 2025
DELHI, Apr 22, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Olympus Medical Systems India Pvt. Ltd. (OMSI), an Olympus Group company, today announces the successful inauguration of newly constructed washrooms at eight government schools across major locations in India. This milestone is part of OMSI’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Program. By actively supporting community well-being and education through long-standing projects, OMSI and Olympus Corporation (Olympus), remain dedicated to supporting the next-generation education in India.Inauguration Ceremony at Government Middle School, Aklimpur, in Sohna Block of Gurugram District of Haryana, IndiaThe WASH Program, a decade-long CSR project by OMSI, focuses on enhancing school infrastructure by constructing and renovating washrooms to ensure that students—especially girls—have access to clean and safe sanitation facilities. This initiative addresses critical challenges in sanitation, hygiene, and child health that directly impact education. Several reports highlight that one in four girls in India drop out of school due to inadequate toilet facilities, underscoring the vital importance of this initiative for promoting gender equality and educational continuity. Over its fiscal year which ended in March 2025, the 10th year since the program began, OMSI constructed washrooms in eight government schools across four major locations—Delhi NCR, Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai. —This initiative provides improved sanitation facilities for over 2,700 students and ensures better hygiene standards for the school communities. The inauguration for these schools took place in March 2025, attended by OMSI leaders, school headmasters, and other officials. Over the past decade, the company has contributed to creating hygienic learning environments for approximately 7,000 students across 30 schools through this program.Nutrition kits handed over by Naoshi Kikumoto,MD, OMSIAdditionally, OMSI’s Olympus Arogya Bachpan (Disease-Free Childhood) Program, provided health check-ups, distributed nutrition kits, and held awareness sessions on essential topics such as personal hygiene and safety for approximately 450 students across two schools. This program, initiated in 2018, aims to improve student well-being through hygiene education, child safety awareness, and health check-ups, helping to combat malnutrition and instill lifelong healthy habits. Since its establishment in 2009, OMSI has remained committed to enhancing health, hygiene, and awareness through these activities, positively impacting thousands of children across India and enabling them to pursue their education in a safe and hygienic environment. “We at Olympus believe that every child deserves the opportunity to grow up healthy and to receive a quality education. Through our CSR programs, we are proud to contribute to a brighter, healthier future for children and communities across India," said Naoshi Kikumoto, Managing Director, OMSI. Together with Olympus, OMSI will continue advancing global corporate citizenship to make people's lives healthier, safer, and more fulfilling across India and beyond. Olympus’ Other CSR activities in India:Beyond its ongoing efforts in areas of hygiene and sanitation, OMSI also played a crucial role in supporting India’s healthcare infrastructure. In its fiscal year which ended in March 2025, the company supported the Saairaam Cancer Foundation in Salem, Tamil Nadu, and JIPMER (Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research), Pondicherry, by donating a Laparoscopic System and contributing to ENT (ear, nose and throat) cancer screening initiatives, respectively. These efforts aim to enhance cancer awareness, early detection, and treatment in underserved regions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, in its fiscal year ended in March 2021 and 2022, OMSI supported Civil Hospital Gurgaon, with Antigen Test Kits, Viral Transport Medium Kits, canopy tents for testing camps, and rental vehicles for transporting samples and lab technicians. The company also donated a fully equipped ambulance, solar lights and other essentials to support the Earth Saviours Foundation. Furthermore, OMSI focused on strengthening infrastructure at Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) in remote areas across the country. It also provided basic sanitation facilities at government hospitals in severely affected regions lacking such services. About Olympus At Olympus, we are committed to Our Purpose of making people’s lives healthier, safer and more fulfilling. As a global medical technology company, we partner with healthcare professionals to provide innovative solutions and services for early detection, diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment, aiming to improve patient outcomes by elevating the standard of care in targeted disease states. For more than 100 years, Olympus has pursued a goal of contributing to society by producing products designed with the purpose of delivering optimal outcomes for its customers around the world. For more information, visit https://www.olympus-global.com/ and follow our global X account: @Olympus_Corp. Also visit LinkedIn page of OMSI.For media inquiries, please contact:Sanjana GroverOlympus Medical Systems India Pvt Ltdsanjana.grover@olympus.comhttps://www.olympus.in/ Public Relations GroupOlympus CorporationGlobal-Public_Relations@olympus.comhttps://www.olympus-global.com/Olympus Corp [TYO: 7733] [ADR: OLYMY] [STU: OLY1] [FRA: OLYS] https://www.olympus-global.com Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Fujitsu Kozuchi AI technologies assist AKOS AI in delivering solutions for EU AI compliance JCN Newswire

Fujitsu Kozuchi AI technologies assist AKOS AI in delivering solutions for EU AI compliance

April 19, 2025
Kawasaki, Japan and Naples, Italy, Apr 18, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu Limited and AKOS AI today announced that Fujitsu has provided the Italy-based startup with AI Trust technologies, consisting of five core tools from its Fujitsu Kozuchi AI service. These technologies will enable AKOS’s AI governance platform AKOS HUB, to offer EU AI Act compliance, risk management and general AI governance services and solutions to enterprise customers.AKOS AI offers AKOS HUB, which provides a set of packages of no-code/low-code tools and AI governance, supporting organizations of all sizes and industries in ensuring fairness, robustness, and risk management. AKOS HUB is comprised of the following packages that leverage Fujitsu Kozuchi :1. AI Act Package: Simplifies EU AI Act complianceThis package is based on the AI Compliance Assistant. By answering a questionnaire users determine their AI system's risk level and receive a list of required actions. The system then creates a compliance report. AKOS HUB also offers packages for ISO 42001 compliance the international standard for AI management systems, and the AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) of the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).2. AI Impact Assessment Package: Identifies risks based on ethical guidelinesThis package is based on the AI Ethics Impact Assessment. It evaluates AI systems by mapping components, identifying stakeholder interactions, and automatically pinpointing ethical risks. A comprehensive risk analysis table, based on EU guidelines and past incidents, is generated.3. AI Risk Assessment Package : Ensures the reliable and efficient implementation of AI system risk managementThis package is based on the AI Risk Management tool, which supports trustworthy AI development throughout its lifecycle, from planning to operation. It facilitates ethical risk identification, bias mitigation, and robust tracking of evidence for problem resolution and auditing. It ensures compliance with AI regulations (e.g., EU AI Act) and provides powerful visualization of AI projects for proactive governance.4. AI Fairness Package : Verifies and improves the fairness of AI modelsThis package is based on the Fujitsu AI Ethics for Fairness and mitigates AI bias across all phases using Fujitsu’s intersectional bias detection algorithm, ensuring fairness across multiple attributes (e.g., gender, age, ethnicity). It evaluates fairness and prediction accuracy, clarifying trade-offs for optimal model selection.5. LLM Package : Diagnose biases hidden within large language models from diverse perspectivesThis package is based on the LLM Bias Diagnosis and evaluates biases across LLMs on various ethical topics. Users can assess publicly available LLMs or their own LLM. Bias evaluation covers four Sustainable Development Goals areas: Climate Action, Gender Equality, Healthcare, and Education. It also provides services for evaluating LLMs based on OWASP security guidelines.Surya Josyula, Head of Business Incubation Division, Technology Strategy Unit, Fujitsu Limited, comments:“As an active contributor to several leading organizations including the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), and the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI), and as a recent pledge to the Hiroshima AI Process International Code of Conduct, Fujitsu has taken the lead in collaborating closely with partners, standardization institutes and industry regulatory bodies dedicated to setting global standards for AI trust and ethics. Fujitsu is a technology pioneer, and our goal is to research, develop and deliver new solutions based on these standards and promote safe, secure and trustworthy AI for society”.Alberto De Lazzari, AKOS AI Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder comments:“The increasing adoption of AI solutions presents companies with new challenges, such as the ethical and fair use of AI, which require sound governance practices. AKOS HUB, the AI Governance Platform, supports responsible AI by helping enterprises manage and oversee the legal, ethical, and operational aspects of AI.”The European Union AI Act, which came into force on August 1st, 2024, is the first comprehensive legal framework aimed at regulating AI within the EU. The Act classifies AI systems based on their risk levels, and its primary objectives are to ensure that AI systems safeguard individuals' health, safety, and fundamental rights, while addressing the risks posed by AI models.Future PlansFujitsu and AKOS AI recognize AI's potential as a catalyst for enterprise transformation and sustainable growth. The two companies’ vision is that AI is not only beneficial for people but also for the planet, ensuring a harmonious balance between innovation and environmental stewardship.Fujitsu and AKOS AI are also committed to developing secure AI systems to ensure the prevention of threats and attacks that could compromise the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of an AI model or system powered by AI. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Leqembi (lecanemab) is the First Medicine that Slows Progression of Early Alzheimer’s Disease to be Authorized in the European Union JCN Newswire

Leqembi (lecanemab) is the First Medicine that Slows Progression of Early Alzheimer’s Disease to be Authorized in the European Union

April 19, 2025
TOKYO and CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Apr 18, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. and Biogen Inc. announced today that the European Commission (EC) has granted the amyloid-beta (Aβ) monoclonal antibody Leqembi® (lecanemab) Marketing Authorization (MA) in the European Union (EU). This makes the medicine the first therapy that targets an underlying cause of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) to be granted a MA in the EU.1,2Lecanemab is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with a clinical diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild dementia due to AD (early AD) who are apolipoprotein E ε4 (ApoE ε4*) non-carriers or heterozygotes with confirmed amyloid pathology.1 The lecanemab MA applies to all 27 EU Member States as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.3Lecanemab is the only approved Aβ monoclonal antibody that preferentially binds and clears toxic protofibrils** (soluble Aβ aggregates), in addition to targeting and reducing Aβ plaques (insoluble Aβ aggregates).1,2,4-7 Protofibrils are a key toxic form of Aβ that accumulate in the brain and cause neuronal injury.4-10MCI due to AD and AD dementia currently affects an estimated 15.2 million and 6.9 million people in Europe, respectively.11 AD progresses in stages that increase in severity over time, and each stage of the disease presents different challenges for those living with AD and their care partners. There is a significant unmet need for new treatment options that slow down the progression of AD from its early stage and reduce the overall burden on people affected by AD and society.“Today’s decision makes lecanemab the first treatment option in the EU that can slow the progression of early Alzheimer's disease. We are proud that our about 40-year heritage in dementia has led to this important milestone, as we aim to be part of the solution for a better future for those impacted by this disease globally,” said Haruo Naito, Chief Executive Officer at Eisai. “Eisai is working collaboratively with national reimbursement authorities and healthcare providers to support access for those eligible for lecanemab as soon as possible, aiming to make an impact not only on patients but also on their caregiving families and society in the EU.” “The approval of lecanemab by the European Commission marks the thirteenth approval of this important medicine, which has already benefitted thousands of patients in the United States, Japan and other regions of the world,” said Christopher A. Viehbacher, President and Chief Executive Officer at Biogen. “Lecanemab is the first treatment which showed that the reduction of the Aβ plaques in the brain is associated with the slowing of cognitive decline in patients at the early stage of the disease. This is a landmark advancement in a field where there has been no or little innovation in the past 20 years.”Eisai serves as the lead for lecanemab’s 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 the EU (excluding the Nordic countries), Eisai and Biogen will co-promote the medicine, with Eisai distributing the product as the MA Holder. In the Nordic countries, Eisai and BioArctic will co-promote the medicine, with Eisai distributing the product as MA Holder.* Apolipoprotein E is a protein involved in the metabolism of lipid in humans. It is implicated in AD. People with only one (heterozygous) or no copy (non-carriers) of the ApoE ε4 gene are less likely to experience ARIA than people with two ApoE ε4 copies (homozygous).2 ARIA is a recognized important side effect with lecanemab that involves swelling and potential bleeding in the brain.1,2** 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 of this progressive, debilitating condition.7 Protofibrils cause injury to neurons in the brain which, in turn, can negatively impact cognitive function via multiple mechanisms,7 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.8 It is believed the reduction of protofibrils may slow the progression of AD by reducing damage to neurons in the brain and cognitive dysfunction.8▼: This medicinal product is subject to additional monitoring. This will allow quick identification of new safety information. If you have any side effects, talk to your healthcare professional. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the package leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via your national reporting system. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.For more information, visit https://www.eisai.com/news/2025/news202532.html. MEDIA CONTACTSEisaiEisai Co., Ltd.Public Relations DepartmentTEL: +81 (0)3-3817-5120Eisai Europe, Ltd.EMEA Communications Department+44 (0) 797 487 9419Emea-comms@eisai.netEisai Inc. (U.S.)Libby Holman+1-201-753-1945Libby_Holman@eisai.comBiogen Inc.Jack Cox+ 1-781-464-3260public.affairs@biogen.com Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems Launches Next-Generation Inverter System to Support Stable, Resilient Power Grids JCN Newswire

Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems Launches Next-Generation Inverter System to Support Stable, Resilient Power Grids

April 19, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 18, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems Co., Ltd. (HIES) has begun operating a next-generation power conditioner(1) called a Grid Forming Inverter (GFM), at its Narashino Works facility in Chiba Prefecture. This cutting-edge system helps stabilize electric power systems as global transition to renewable energy, by simulating the stabilizing effects once provided by large power plants.As renewable energy becomes a bigger part of the power mix, older systems that relied on heavy rotating generators are retiring, but they also provided valuable "inertia" that kept the grid stable during power fluctuation between demand and supply. GFM technology helps recreate inertia, supporting a reliable power supply for the future.Why This MattersElectricity must be supplied at a stable frequency to keep our power systems running smoothly -typically at 50 Hz or 60 Hz. Traditionally, large power plants helped maintain that frequency because their heavy turbines had "inertia," a natural resistance to sudden changes.As more renewable energy sources like solar and wind replace thermal power plants using fossil fuels, that inertia in power system is decreasing. These newer systems can't stabilize frequency in the same way, increasing the risk of frequency fluctuations or even blackouts.This is where GFMs come in. They simulate this lost inertia, helping to balance the grid and maintain a stable supply of electricity – even when demand suddenly changes, or renewable output fluctuates.About Grid Forming Inverters (GFM)Unlike conventional inverters that simply follow the power grid, GFMs can create and stabilize their own grid, working together with other units to form self-sustaining microgrids(2). This makes them important for supporting local energy systems, improving grid resilience and enabling carbon neutrality.Powering Narashino WorksNarashino Works now runs on a system that combines solar energy, battery storage and inverter technology to reduce CO₂ emissions and keep operations required in the emergency event– even during blackouts of utility grid.81.9 kW of solar power (54 kW new and 27.9 kW existing) is used for the system, expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 39.2 tons of CO2 annually.A newly built AC microgrid, powered by paralleled three GFMs, keeps systems like water pumps (also made by HIES) and internal announce equipment running smoothly, even when solar power fluctuates.A DC microgrid uses solar energy more efficiently, stores surplus power in batteries and feeds it back into the plant, helping reduce conversion losses and saving energy.The system can operate independently during emergencies, strengthening Narashino Works' disaster resilience.Since DC power supply has an advantage in environmental performance, this system was selected for a carbon reduction subsidy from Japan's Ministry of the Environment.(3)(1) A device that converts DC power supplied from solar power generation systems, storage batteries, etc., into AC power that can be used in buildings, etc.(2) A system to develop small-scale power generation facilities within a facility or region and become self-sufficient in electricity(3) Ministry of the Environment: Selected for a subsidy for carbon dioxide emission control measures in fiscal 2024About Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems Co., Ltd.Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems enhances productivity across various industries – including data centers, batteries, electronics and semiconductors and pharmaceuticals – through high-efficiency products such as compressed air systems, grid edge solutions, drives and coding and marking equipment. Our innovative solutions and services integrate digital technology to drive customer success and contribute to a more sustainable society. We support customers throughout the entire product lifecycle, from maintenance to recycling. For more information on Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems, please visit https://www.hitachi-ies.com/.For inquiries, please contactYoji IkedaHitachi Industrial Equipment Systems Co., Ltd.Power Transmission and Distribution Systems Division, Alternating Grid Development Projectikeda-youji@hitachi-ies.co.jp Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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MHIEC Receives Order from the Bureau of Sewerage of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government for Rebuilding of Sewage Sludge Incineration Facility JCN Newswire

MHIEC Receives Order from the Bureau of Sewerage of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government for Rebuilding of Sewage Sludge Incineration Facility

April 18, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 17, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Environmental & Chemical Engineering Co., Ltd. (MHIEC), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has received an order from the Bureau of Sewerage of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (the Bureau of Sewerage) to rebuild the sewage sludge incineration facility at the Nambu Sludge Treatment Plant in Ota-ku. The construction order calls for replacement of the existing superannuated sewage sludge incineration system with the industry's first "energy-supply" (carbon-negative) incinerator. The new incinerator enables reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and provides power generation capacity exceeding the incinerator's energy consumption volume, made possible using the waste heat from sewage sludge incineration. The contracted work is valued at 6.41 billion JPY (excluding taxes) and is scheduled for completion in March 2030.The newly developed energy-supply incinerator is the result of joint research launched in FY2023 between the Bureau of Sewerage and a sewerage plant manufacturer. MHIEC attained all six R&D targets relating to GHG emissions employing a proprietary technology that combines a fluidized bed incineration system equipped with combustion optimization control(Note1) and a high-efficiency binary power generation system(Note2). The Bureau of Sewerage placed the order with MHIEC in reflection of its high assessment of the practical viability of the Company's technology.MHIEC took over MHI's technological development capabilities in sludge treatment, along with its abundant expertise in the construction and operation of related facilities, in 2006. Today, based on its solid track record MHIEC is in a prime position to propose comprehensive solutions incorporating all aspects of plant construction and operation. The Company received the order for the first energy-supply (carbon-negative) incinerator following the Bureau of Sewerage's assessment of the practical applicability of this configuration. Going forward MHIEC will proactively propose additional measures for saving energy and curbing global warming through constructing sewage sludge treatment plants, aiming for further expansion of orders.(1) Combustion optimization control is a proprietary technology of MHIEC enabling optimized control of combustion using multiple measures of the sewage sludge incinerator's combustion status.(2) A binary power generation system, instead of directly using waste heat, transfers the waste heat to a separate heating medium having a lower boiling point than water; the gas generated through the heating medium (by heating and vaporization) is then used to drive a turbine. The term "binary" derives from the dual heating cycle involving the heat source system and medium system. The binary system is also employed in geothermal power generation applications, etc.About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Fujitsu collaboration with Supermicro and Nidec to reduce data center energy consumption JCN Newswire

Fujitsu collaboration with Supermicro and Nidec to reduce data center energy consumption

April 17, 2025
KAWASAKI, Japan, Apr 17, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu today announced a collaboration with Supermicro Inc. and Nidec Corporation to improve data center energy efficiency. As part of this collaboration, the three companies will combine Fujitsu's liquid-cooling monitoring and control software, Supermicro’s high performance GPU servers, and Nidec’s high-efficiency liquid-cooling system to develop a service that will help data centers increase their power usage effectiveness (PUE). Fujitsu will assess the effectiveness of the solution at its Tatebayashi Data Center, aiming to help customers achieve a world-class PUE at their data centers by the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025.Addressing the growing energy demands of data centersThe rapid proliferation of AI is driving a surge in computing demand, leading to a global increase in the number of data centers and their overall power consumption. Higher power consumption is largely due to the increased cooling requirements of GPUs used in AI servers. Many data centers utilize air cooling, resulting in high average PUE ratios. While liquid cooling offers significantly higher efficiency, the design, construction, and operation of liquid-cooling systems require a high level of expertise and skill, and deployment of these systems has been limited.Roles and responsibilitiesFujitsu:Apply its 40-year track record in liquid-cooling technology used in top-tier supercomputers and mission-critical servers around the world to develop software that provides real-time monitoring of liquid-cooled servers and optimizes cooling equipment. This is expected to reduce liquid-cooling equipment power consumption and improve overall data center energy efficiency by up to 40% compared to traditional air-cooling methods. The software will also centralize management of liquid-cooled servers and equipment, reducing data center management workload.Supermicro:Provide high-density, high-performance AI server systems optimized for liquid cooling. This eliminates the need for air cooling fans, significantly reducing server power consumption and improving the server environment with reduced noise and lower operating temperatures.Nidec:Provide highly efficient cooling systems centered around its globally recognized Coolant Distribution Units (CDUs), which have achieved cumulative shipments of 5,000 units as of November 2024. Nidec will utilize its proprietary pump technology and expertise in precision engineering to deliver reliable and high-performance liquid cooling solutions. These systems will optimize thermal management within servers, significantly reducing energy consumption and contributing to sustainable datacenter operations.Fujitsu’s liquid-cooling monitoring and control software will also be applied in a Fujitsu offering for datacenters that will be rolled out starting in Japan in Q1 fiscal 2025. The offering, tailored for customers who are considering liquid-cooling for their datacenters, will provide one-stop support for the entire liquid-cooling solution lifecycle, from the introduction and planning stages, to construction, operation and maintenance. It will be provided under a subscription model that can be deployed with low initial investment cost.Fujitsu’s Commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015 represent a set of common goals to be achieved worldwide by 2030.Fujitsu’s purpose — “to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation” — is a promise to contribute to the vision of a better future empowered by the SDGs.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 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Fujitsu’s Japanese language enhanced LLM Takane offering now available on Nutanix Enterprise AI solution

April 16, 2025
KAWASAKI, Japan, Apr 16, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu Limited and Nutanix (NASDAQ: NTNX), a leader in hybrid multicloud computing today announced the validation of Fujitsu’s Takane, a largescale language model (LLM) with world-class Japanese language capabilities designed for enterprise utilization on the Nutanix Enterprise AI (NAI) solution - which supports the deployment of a wide range of generative AI models on-premises and in public clouds, and the hybrid multicloud solution Nutanix Cloud Platform (NCP). Takane will be available as a certified LLM to customers from April 16, 2025. This marks the first time a Japanese-language-enhanced LLM has been validated for use on NAI.Takane on Nutanix Enterprise AI will be offered through Fsas Technologies Inc. integrated virtualization platform PRIMEFLEX for Nutanix. It will support the development of high-quality and highly reliable infrastructure in business domains where public cloud usage is restricted due to data sensitivity, legal regulations and industry standards.As the adoption of generative AI continues to evolve in the Japanese market, certain challenges have emerged due to the unique characteristics of the Japanese language, such as the mixture of different character sets, the omission of subjects, and the use of honorific expressions. These factors have led to use cases where the output accuracy of the general-purpose LLMs by NAI has been a challenge. Additionally, there is a growing demand for development environments to be hosted on public clouds for their agility, while production environments leverage on-premises or edge locations due to data confidentiality, industry regulations, or latency considerations. This has also created challenges in migrating applications and data and managing them in an integrated manner across various environments.With Fujitsu's Takane now being compatible with NAI and NCP, customers can utilize LLMs tailored to Japanese language and business practices in their operations, and more easily deploy and manage dedicated LLMs in-house. NAI with Takane will be offered as a Fujitsu managed service starting in July 2025. In addition, Fujitsu Cloud Managed Service, a hybrid cloud operation optimization offering, will centrally manage cloud environments running on the NCP and support advanced operations of cloud environments including Takane. Fujitsu will continue to develop services under its business model Fujitsu Uvance, which aims to solve societal challenges, for customers in fields requiring high security such as finance, government and R&D, where Takane excels. These services will be available in private environments, including the cloud.For more details, please visit the information provided in the following website.About FujitsuFujitsu's purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers in over 100 countries, our 124,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: Computing, Networks, AI, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.7 trillion yen (US$26 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: www.fujitsu.com.About NutanixNutanix is a global leader in cloud software, offering organizations a single platform for running applications and managing data, anywhere. With Nutanix, companies can reduce complexity and simplify operations, freeing them to focus on their business outcomes. Building on its legacy as the pioneer of hyperconverged infrastructure, Nutanix is trusted by companies worldwide to power hybrid multicloud environments consistently, simply, and cost-effectively. Learn more at www.nutanix.com or follow us on social media @nutanix.Press Contacts:Fujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiriesNutanixMarty Filipowskipr@nutanix.com Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Isuzu and Fujitsu sign partnership agreement to commercialize software defined vehicles JCN Newswire

Isuzu and Fujitsu sign partnership agreement to commercialize software defined vehicles

April 15, 2025
Yokohama and Kawasaki, Japan, Apr 15, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Isuzu Motors Limited and Fujitsu Limited today announced the signing of a partnership agreement to strengthen the development of competitive software-defined vehicles (SDVs) for commercial mobility. Through this partnership, Isuzu and Fujitsu aim to solve issues in the logistics industry such as improving efficiency and achieving carbon neutrality. Leveraging their respective strengths in commercial vehicles and digital technology, the companies will work on developing software update systems, fostering software talent, improving development efficiency, and strengthening the development infrastructure.In October 2022, Isuzu and Fujitsu, through their jointly invested company Transtron Corporation, launched GATEX, a commercial vehicle information platform providing advanced operation management and support services. Based on GATEX, Isuzu has provided its unique solutions for approximately 570,000 commercial vehicles, such as advanced genuine maintenance program PREISM and telematics system MIMAMORI.Commercializing SDVs will allow for more sophisticated data utilization and lead to gains in transportation efficiency, streamlined logistics through enhanced visualization, and reduced CO2 emissions via optimized energy management for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCVs). This partnership will strengthen GATEX as a leading data utilization platform for commercial SDVs, driving the development of innovative solutions for the logistics sector.This collaboration represents a key element of Isuzu Group's 1 trillion yen investment in innovation, announced in May 2023, and establishes a crucial foundation for the development and expansion of next-generation SDVs, autonomous driving, and connected technologies and services.Through this partnership, Fujitsu will accelerate in-vehicle software development via its SDV offering, part of the Fujitsu Uvance business model to solve societal issues, and contribute to improved logistics efficiency and reduced environmental impact.Isuzu and Fujistu together aim to resolve pressing challenges within the logistics industry and establish a robust innovation foundation by exploring the vast potential of commercial SDVs.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 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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MHI Awarded a Study on CO2 Capture Modules for FPSOs JCN Newswire

MHI Awarded a Study on CO2 Capture Modules for FPSOs

April 15, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 15, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. ("MHI") announced the signature of a study with Single Buoy Moorings Inc., the subsidiary of SBM Offshore ("SBM"), for the application of CO2 capture modules on future Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessels(1) ("FPSOs") for Petroleo Brasileiro S.A. (Petrobras). This study will be conducted toward typical implementation of CO2 capture solutions for FPSOs.The module design for FPSOs is based on a combination of MHI's proprietary "Advanced KM CDR Process™" CO2 capture technology(2) and SBM's Fast4Ward® principles(3). The study will focus on capture of the CO2 emitted by onboard gas turbines, with analysis and evaluation to be carried out toward future commercialization.The study is the first achievement of a partnership agreement between MHI and SBM in September 2023(4). The agreement, a response to rapid expansion in demand for decarbonization, aims to accelerate business development in CO2 capture solution for FPSOs, to contribute to achievement of carbon neutrality on a global scale.MHI Group has formally declared its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2040 (MISSION NET ZERO), 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 carbon capture, utilization and storage (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.(1) FPSOs are floating systems for vessels that produce, store and offload oil and gas at sea.(2) The "Advanced KM CDR Process™" was jointly developed with The Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc.(3) Fast4Ward® is a program targeting reduced cycle time - from oil/gas excavation to supply - using standardized FPSO hulls developed by SBM Offshore, a leader in the FPSO industry.(4) For further information on MHI's collaboration with SBM Offshore, refer to the following press release: www.mhi.com/news/230915.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 April 2025, 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: 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 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Mitsubishi Motors Begins Shipping Xforce HEV Model in Thailand JCN Newswire

Mitsubishi Motors Begins Shipping Xforce HEV Model in Thailand

April 12, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 11, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (hereafter, Mitsubishi Motors) commenced the shipment of the hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) model of the Xforce compact SUV on April 10. The model has been in production at the Laem Chabang plant of Mitsubishi Motors Thailand, a production and sales company in Thailand.The new Xforce HEV is the second HEV model from Mitsubishi Motors, following the Xpander HEV series launched in Thailand in February 2024. The model set off to a running start, with roughly over 1,800 bookings placed since the launch on March 20, surpassing expectations.Customers who placed orders were impressed by its stylish and powerful authentic SUV design, its roomy interior space that comfortably seats five despite the vehicle's compact body size, the powerful and smooth acceleration unique to an HEV, and its top-class fuel efficiency.Takao Kato, president and chief executive officer of Mitsubishi Motors, commented on the damage caused in Thailand by the earthquake in central Myanmar last month, saying "I would like to pay my respects to those who lost their lives in this disaster and express my condolences to their families." He continued, "We have a long history of doing business in Thailand, starting operations over 60 years ago. With the support of the Thai government, we have contributed to the advancement of Thailand's automobile industry. We will continue to contribute to the Thai economy and automobile industry while also introducing electrified vehicles at enabling Thailand to achieve carbon neutrality."About Mitsubishi MotorsMitsubishi Motors Corporation (TSE:7211) — a member of the Alliance with Renault and Nissan — is a global automobile company based in Tokyo, Japan, which has about 28,000 employees and a global footprint with production facilities in Japan and the ASEAN region. Mitsubishi Motors has a competitive edge in SUVs, pickup trucks and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and appeals to ambitious drivers willing to challenge convention and embrace innovation. Since the production of our first vehicle more than a century ago, Mitsubishi Motors has been a leader in electrification — launched the i-MiEV, the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle in 2009, followed by the Outlander PHEV, the world’s first plug-in hybrid electric SUV in 2013. With a target of increasing the sales ratio of electrified vehicles to 100% by 2035, Mitsubishi Motors will deliver models that embody Mitsubishi Motors-ness and contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society.For more information on Mitsubishi Motors, please visit the company's website at www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Collaboration to Make Engine-Equipped Vehicles Carbon Neutral Using Synthetic Fuel JCN Newswire

Collaboration to Make Engine-Equipped Vehicles Carbon Neutral Using Synthetic Fuel

April 11, 2025
Toyota City, Japan, Apr 11, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - ENEOS Corporation, Suzuki Motor Corporation, Subaru Corporation, DAIHATSU MOTOR CO., LTD., Toyota Motor Corporation, and Mazda Motor Corporation are pleased to announce they will provide passenger vehicles that use a fuel mixture containing synthetic fuel during the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan event period(1) for transporting guests and related parties within the venue.With support(2) from the Green Innovation Fund of the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), ENEOS will provide synthetic fuel produced at a demonstration plant(3) completed in September 2024 within its Central Technical Research Laboratory. This fuel will be supplied to vehicles for transporting guests provided by Toyota and Mazda, as well as vehicles for transporting related parties provided by Suzuki, Subaru, and Daihatsu. The synthetic fuel to be used has been confirmed in advance by Suzuki, Subaru, Daihatsu, Toyota, and Mazda to be able to operate similarly to gasoline.Synthetic fuels are clean energy sources made from hydrogen derived from renewable energy sources and CO2 that can reduce CO2 emissions throughout their product lifecycle. As liquid fuels, they can utilize existing infrastructure and therefore contribute to reducing internal combustion engine CO2 emissions.By operating the vehicles for transporting guests and related parties at the Expo, ENEOS, Suzuki, Subaru, Daihatsu, Toyota, and Mazda will promote the idea that engine-equipped vehicles running on synthetic fuel are a key mobility option on the path toward carbon neutrality. In addition, it will contribute to achieving the Expo's sustainability mission as laid out in the EXPO 2025 Green Vision(4).(1) April 13 to October 13, 2025(2) The development of the production process for synthetic fuels using CO2 was selected by NEDO as their "Green Innovation Fund Project / Development of technology for producing fuel using CO2, etc."(3) ENEOS release published on September 30, 2024Completion of Japan's First Synthetic Fuels Demonstration Plant with Ability to Handle the Entire Production Process from Raw Materials(4) Sustainability initiatives at EXPO 2025: www.expo2025.or.jp/en/overview/sustainability/ Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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TGR to Launch Evolved GR Yaris JCN Newswire

TGR to Launch Evolved GR Yaris

April 11, 2025
Toyota City, Japan, Apr 11, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) has announced that orders are being accepted from today for its evolved GR Yaris at Toyota vehicle dealers across Japan, with sales to commence on May 6. Also announced today was the GR Yaris factory-installed option Aero Performance Package scheduled for launch this autumn or later, the elements of which were first unveiled as part of a concept vehicle at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 and which incorporates insights gained from motorsports.The evolved GR Yaris is being introduced in Japan. Acceptance of orders started on April 11. Sales are to start on May 6.Insights gained from competing in motorsports events such as the Super Taikyu Series and Japanese Rally Championship were incorporated into the development process, resulting in improvements that contribute to enhanced driving performance.The Aero Performance Package, a new factory-installed option that features performance aerodynamic parts that were developed together with professional drivers through an uncompromising approach to achieving targeted performance by addressing every single issue encountered during racing and circuit evaluations, has been announced and is scheduled for launch in autumn 2025 or later.As a symbol of TGR car-making, the GR Yaris was born through making ever-better motorsports-bred cars. TGR has continued to compete in various motorsports, such as the FIA World Rally Championship, the Super Taikyu Series, and the Japanese Rally Championship, using the GR Yaris since the model's launch in September 2020. That is because problems that occur in the extreme environments of rallies and other races provide opportunities to evolve the GR Yaris into an ever-better car. Under the slogan of "Thanks for breaking it" directed at the drivers who pushed the vehicle to its limits, TGR honed the GR Yaris through constant enhancements, thoroughly pursuing the cause of problems by analyzing driving data, reviewing steering feel, and examining what kind of scratches and foreign matter were on broken parts.TGR's journey of making ever-better motorsports-bred cars is without end. It intends to continuously evolve the GR Yaris by incorporating input from various drivers garnered through continued racing.For more information, visit https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/toyota/42579162.html. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Fujitsu develops employee training platform for Seven-Eleven Japan to accelerate store digitalization JCN Newswire

Fujitsu develops employee training platform for Seven-Eleven Japan to accelerate store digitalization

April 11, 2025
KAWASAKI, Japan, Apr 11, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu today announced the joint development of a training platform for the company's store employees with Seven-Eleven Japan Co., Ltd.. The platform launched in some directly managed stores in Japan on March 25, 2025, and is provided as part of a next-generation store system being developed by Seven-Eleven Japan to accelerate digitalization across stores.Built using Fujitsu's Digital Touchpoint, an offering that provides optimal channels and experiences tailored to customers' digital literacy, the platform provides a comprehensive learning environment to understand and execute convenience store operations, enables real-time tracking of acquired skills, accelerates employee readiness, improves retention rates, and reduces the training burden on franchise owners and store managers. The solution is expected to reach over 400,000 employees across Seven-Eleven Japan's approximately 22,000 stores.Seven-Eleven Japan is transforming its employee training approach in recognition of recent challenges in the retail industry, including the declining birthrate, aging population, and shrinking workforce, as well an increasing need for training tailored for foreign workers. With this Background in mind, Seven-Eleven Japan has been promoting the digitalization of store employee education, such as the distribution of videos to stores and the use of electronic manuals. In order to accelerate this trend, the headquarters will strengthen its support.Overview of the developed platformThe platform empowers store employees to monitor their real-time progress in mastering operational skills via mobile devices and tablets that will be set up in-store. Tailored courses enable employees to learn about store operations at their own pace. Simultaneously, owners and store managers gain real-time visibility into employee learning and skill development, fostering smoother communication and more targeted coaching. The intuitive interface allows for easy access to crucial information, including manuals, enabling efficient customer service.*Fujitsu will continue to contribute to the efficiency and quality of employee training across all Seven-Eleven Japan stores through the provision of this platform. In the future, under Fujitsu Uvance, the platform will evolve further into a store operation and talent development support solution utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as AI and data analysis. This will promote communication within stores and between multiple stores operated by the same owner, maximize customer satisfaction, and contribute to increased store sales and profitability.Fujitsu’s Commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015 represent a set of common goals to be achieved worldwide by 2030.Fujitsu’s purpose — “to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation” — is a promise to contribute to the vision of a better future empowered by the SDGs.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 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Mitsubishi Corporation makes DennoKotsu an equity-method affiliate company, strengthening efforts to address regional transportation challenges JCN Newswire

Mitsubishi Corporation makes DennoKotsu an equity-method affiliate company, strengthening efforts to address regional transportation challenges

April 11, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 11, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) is pleased to announce its participation in a Series D round of funding, involving a third-party allotment of shares underwritten by 12 companies, conducted by DennoKotsu Inc. As a result of this acquisition, DennoKotsu, which promotes the digital transformation of taxi dispatch operations, will become an equity-method affiliate of MC.In cooperation with local governments and transportation companies, MC has been working to address regional transportation challenges in Japan through AI-equipped on-demand bus and autonomous driving projects. MC previously made investments in DennoKotsu in 2020 and 2023, which have helped promote the digital transformation of its taxi dispatch business and call center services. By leveraging DennoKotsu's achievements, expertise, and practical knowledge in the taxi industry, along with MC's extensive business network, cooperation with other MC-affiliated companies has already begun. DennoKotsu's dispatch system is currently in use in 47 prefectures across Japan, supporting approximately 600 companies and 21,000 vehicles.MC believes that automating transportation is a key solution to Japan’s growing driver shortage. In anticipation of autonomous vehicles becoming more prevalent, DennoKotsu is expected to expand its operations beyond the taxi sector to the broader transportation field. This expectation led to MC’s additional funding for DennoKotsu. With this investment, MC aims to further strengthen its collaboration with DennoKotsu and accelerate cooperation with on-demand bus services and autonomous driving projects. Through this, the company will provide comprehensive solutions tailored to the needs of each region, advancing transportation problem-solving and the creation of new businesses.Inquiry Recipient:Mitsubishi CorporationTelephone:+81-3-3210-2171 Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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JCB Enhances Customer Experience with Expanded Payment Acceptance for App Store and Apple Services in Asia JCN Newswire

JCB Enhances Customer Experience with Expanded Payment Acceptance for App Store and Apple Services in Asia

April 11, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 11, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - JCB International Co., Ltd., the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., Japan's only global payment brand, is excited to announce that JCB Cards are now available as a payment method for the App Store and Apple Services in Taiwan, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. Customers can now use their JCB Cards to pay for purchases on the App Store, Apple Music, Apple TV app, iTunes, iCloud storage and more. This expansion reflects JCB’s commitment to providing exceptional service and seamless payment solutions to its growing base of Cardmembers across Asia.As digital transactions continue to surge, JCB is dedicated to enhancing convenience and accessibility for its customers. By integrating JCB as an Apple Account payment method, JCB ensures that its Cardmembers can enjoy a smooth, secure, and efficient transaction experience with their Apple devices. This move reinforces JCB’s focus on enhancing the customer experience, allowing users to access their favorite content and services with ease.Yoshiki Kaneko, President & CEO of JCB International Co., Ltd., said, "We are thrilled to offer a seamless and secure payment experience for our customers in countries and territories across Asia who purchase Apple Services, as well as apps and games from the App Store. This marks a significant milestone in our efforts to improve the payment experience for our Cardmembers.”JCB remains committed to continuously improving its Cardmembers’ payment experience through innovations that emphasize customer service, ease of use, and security. As digital payments evolve, JCB will continue to lead the way in providing advanced solutions that cater to the needs of its customers.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 53 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 164 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/MEDIA CONTACTS:JCB (Head Office in Japan)Anna TakedaCorporate CommunicationsTel: +81-3-5778-8353Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Fujitsu and Headwaters trial on-device generative AI solution to streamline JAL cabin crew workflows JCN Newswire

Fujitsu and Headwaters trial on-device generative AI solution to streamline JAL cabin crew workflows

April 11, 2025
Kawasaki and Tokyo, Apr 11, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu Limited and AI solutions provider Headwaters Co., Ltd. today announced the successful completion of field trials utilizing a generative AI solution to improve the efficiency of handover report creation for Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (JAL) cabin crew. The field trials, conducted from January 27 to March 26, 2025, demonstrated that significant time savings.JAL cabin crew members currently spend considerable time creating detailed handover reports, which play an important role in information transfer between cabin crews and ground staff. To address this challenge, Fujitsu and Headwaters used Microsoft's Phi-4 – a small language model (SLM) optimized for offline environments – as an alternative to a large language model (LLM) requiring cloud connectivity. This allowed for the creation of a chat-based system on tablet devices, enabling efficient report generation during and after flights. The trials demonstrated that the solution can assist in the creation of high-quality reports and achieve a significant reduction in the time spent on report generation.Through this solution, Fujitsu and Headwaters seek to improve the efficiency of JAL’s cabin crew and contribute to further service improvements for passengers.The roles and responsibilities in the trials were as follows:Fujitsu:- Applied its Fujitsu Kozuchi AI service to fine-tune Microsoft Phi-4 using JAL's past report data and specialize it for cabin crew tasks.Headwaters:- Used Phi-4 to develop a business-specific generative AI application using quantization technology, enabling smooth report creation on tablet devices in offline environments. Headwaters’ AI consultants assisted with workflow analysis for AI implementation, implementation and evaluation of the trials, and agile development progress management. In addition, AI engineers built a fine-tuning environment for Fujitsu Kozuchi, and provided technical support for optimization tailored to the customer's usage environment.Shinichi Miyata, Head of Cross-Industry Solutions Business Unit, Global Solutions Business Group, Fujitsu Limited, comments:"We are pleased to announce this example of generative AI utilization in Japan Airlines’ cabin operations. This joint proof-of-concept contributes to the advancement of generative AI in offline environments and has the potential to transform operations across various industries and roles where network access is limited. The success of this meaningful collaboration is a result of the exceptional proposal capabilities of Headwaters combined with Fujitsu’s technological expertise. Moving forward, we remain committed to strengthening our partnership to support our customers’ business expansion and address societal challenges."Yosuke Shinoda, CEO, Headwaters Co., Ltd., comments:"We are honored to have been part of this initiative to demonstrate the efficiency of using generative AI for cabin crew reporting alongside Fujitsu and Japan Airlines (JAL). This technology was able to reduce the time necessary to prepare and correct handover reports, which shows great promise for its continued application. We would like to express our gratitude to Microsoft Japan for its outstanding technical capabilities and support. We look forward to continuing to work with Fujitsu to support JAL in the practical application of generative AI."Keisuke Suzuki, Executive Officer, Head of Digital Technology Division, Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. comments:"We are delighted to have conducted this proof-of-concept for a generative AI solution aimed at enhancing the efficiency of cabin crew operations through our collaboration with Fujitsu and Headwaters. By leveraging generative AI, we aim to streamline the handover report creation process and reduce the burden on our cabin crew, allowing them to provide more personalized and attentive service to each customer. We look forward to further improving customer service through this initiative."Tadashi Okazaki, Corporate Executive Officer, Senior Managing Director, Cloud & AI Solutions Business Division, Microsoft Japan Co., Ltd. comments:"We are grateful for the opportunity to showcase this example of SLM utilization on board aircraft (offline), using Fujitsu Kozuchi for Japan Airlines. This project represents an innovative initiative within Microsoft Japan. It is a testament to the high technical capabilities and strong partnership between Fujitsu and Headwaters. We believe this will contribute to the further development of Japan Airlines’ AI initiatives and enhance flight safety and Japanese hospitality."Future PlansFujitsu and Headwaters will continue testing towards production deployment for JAL, aiming for integration into JAL's generative AI platform. In addition, Fujitsu plans to incorporate SLMs tailored to specific types of work in Fujitsu Kozuchi.The companies will continue supporting JAL's operational transformation through AI, contributing to problem-solving, improved customer service, and addressing industry challenges.*This press release was originally issued in Japanese on March 27, 2025About FujitsuFujitsu’s purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers in over 100 countries, our 124,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: Computing, Networks, AI, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.7 trillion yen (US$26 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: www.fujitsu.com.About Headwaters Co., Ltd.Headwaters specializes in AI, IoT, and DX, offering end-to-end solutions from proposal to implementation. We provide innovative and growth-oriented strategies to various industries, and are enhancing our capabilities in generative AI and other state-of-the-art technologies by strengthening relationships with Microsoft and other industry leaders.Press ContactsFujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiriesHeadwaters Co., Ltd.Public and Investor Relations OfficeE-mail: info@ml.headwaters.co.jp Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Mitsubishi Logisnext Delivers Container Terminal Gate System with Enhanced Functionality to Port of Osaka JCN Newswire

Mitsubishi Logisnext Delivers Container Terminal Gate System with Enhanced Functionality to Port of Osaka

April 11, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 10, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Logisnext Co., Ltd., a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has delivered a new advanced-function container terminal gate, a facility that serves as a nodal point for various types of cargo transport by sea and land, to Dream Island Container Terminal Co., Ltd. The new container terminal gate, Mitsubishi Logisnext's first system incorporating advanced functionality installed at the Port of Osaka's Yumeshima Container Terminal (DICT), was selected for the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's "2024 Osaka Port Yumeshima Container Terminal CT Gate Advanced Project," and began operation in February 2025, along with the existing gate facilities that had undergone system upgrades.The gate system uses a 5G handheld terminals that can be operated in conjunction with computers in the administrative office to confirm the information on the containers arriving and leaving the terminal, and the trailers to transport them, instead of the conventional method of paper documents and visual inspection of the physical containers. Specifically, the system greatly reduces workloads and shortens working time with automatic inputting of image data using handheld terminals, and an AI (artificial intelligence) identification system using two overhead cameras installed at the gate. In addition, for the operation of the system, client-specific applications that previously needed to be installed on a computer have been adapted for browsers, enhancing operability and compatibility, and allowing for greater flexibility when modifying applications or updating the system in the future. Further, the vehicle information obtained through this system is linked to the new CONPAS port information system,* and will contribute to alleviating traffic congestion around the adjacent Expo2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan venue.Mitsubishi Logisnext has a high market share in the field of port logistics in Japan, and will leverage the technological capabilities it has cultivated over many years to enhance the functionality of terminal operation systems to proactively promote the realization of AI terminals that support humans, and provide optimal solutions.*CONPAS (Container Fast Pass) is a new port information system developed by Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) with the aim of improving the efficiency and productivity of container transportation by eliminating congestion at container terminal gates, and shortening the time spent at the terminal by container truck trailers.About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Acquired Approval in Principle (AiP) from Classification Society for the Basic Design of an Onboard Carbon Capture and Storage System JCN Newswire

Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Acquired Approval in Principle (AiP) from Classification Society for the Basic Design of an Onboard Carbon Capture and Storage System

April 11, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 10, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has acquired Approval in Principle (AiP)* from Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) for its Onboard Carbon Capture and Storage system (OCCS) developed to capture and store CO2 emitted from ships.The OCCS subject to the AiP captures, liquefies, and stores CO2 after pretreatment of the exhaust gas emitted from ships. It is attracting attention as a solution to promote decarbonization of ships.Mitsubishi Shipbuilding has developed the system by utilizing CO2 capture technologies of MHI, which has a wealth of experience with onshore facilities, as core technology, and combining it with exhaust gas pretreatment, CO2 liquefaction, storage, and handling technologies in order to establish as onboard system. Going forward, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding will accelerate the development of this system to bring it into market.MHI Group is currently pursuing strategic measures to strengthen its business for the energy transition. In conjunction with this initiative, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding is making efforts to contribute to the advancement of the maritime industries in Japan and around the world by utilizing its shipbuilding-based marine engineering technologies in addition to the conventional shipbuilding.Mitsubishi Shipbuilding will actively contribute to the decarbonization of ships continuing their effort to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships, which faces an increasingly urgent priority around the world.*Approval in Principle (AiP) indicates that a certification body has reviewed the basic design of the subject equipment and confirmed that it meets technical requirements and relevant safety standards.The inspection of the basic design for the OCCS system was conducted in accordance with ClassNK's "Guidelines for Shipboard CO2 Capture and Storage Systems."About 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 April 2025, 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.Further information on MHI Group's CO2 capture plants: 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 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Honda NC750X Named Winner in 2025 Red Dot Design Award: Product Design Category, EM1 e: Wins 2025 iF Design Award: Product Design Category JCN Newswire

Honda NC750X Named Winner in 2025 Red Dot Design Award: Product Design Category, EM1 e: Wins 2025 iF Design Award: Product Design Category

April 10, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 10, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda announced that Honda’s NC750X large sport model has been named winner of the Red Dot Design Award(1) Product Design category, and the EM1 e: electric motorcycle won the iF Design Award(2) in the Product Design category. Both awards are one of the most respected design awards in the world, and this is the sixth consecutive year that Honda has received a Red Dot Design Award, and the third time since 1997 that it has received an iF Design Award.About the award-winning Honda productsNC750XThe NC750X crossover model combines the fun of touring with ease of use in everyday situations such as commuting. It has been well received by a wide range of customers for its in-line 2-cylinder 745cc engine with powerful torque characteristics for easy handling and excellent fuel economy, low center of gravity packaging for easy handling, and user-friendly luggage storage.Key design featuresSharp and powerful design and an adventure-style exterior raise the rider’s expectations. Its fairing is made of plant-derived bioplastic and recycled materials, a world-first*3 for motorcycle exterior components, and the elimination of paint reduces CO2 emissions. While reducing environmental impact, it also delivers vibrant colors and exceptional design.EM1 e:Developed with the concept of an “electric scooter ‘just right’ for people,” the EM1 e: is a personal-use, electric scooter that fits in well with customers’ lifestyles and daily lives. The EM1 e: is powered by one unit of the Honda Mobile Power Pack e: swappable battery, realizing clean and quiet riding.Key design featuresThe EM1 e: features simple and slim packaging realized by the optimization of the layout of key components. High-brightness LEDs are adopted for the lights, contributing to greater peace of mind experienced by customers while riding at night. The headlight features a simple, flush-surface design, highlighting the iconic look of EM1 e:.Comments by Toshinobu Minami, Managing Director, Chief Operating Officer, Design Center, Honda R&D Co., Ltd.:“We are very honored to receive the Red Dot Design Award for the sixth consecutive year, and this year, we also received the iF Design Award. We believe that this is the result of people resonating with Honda Design’s passion of ‘designs that enrich the lives of our customers through experiences and products resulting from a human-centric approach’. Honda will continue to create new values that surprise and inspire people, and provide the joy of expanding their life’s potential.” (1) The Red Dot Award was founded in 1955 and has become one of the most respected design awards worldwide. The award is administered by Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen in Essen, Germany. For the Product Design awards, 51 categories of industrial products are judged on 9 criteria including the degree of innovation, functionality, durability and ergonomics.(2) The iF Design Award was established in 1954, and is one of the most respected design awards along with the Red Dot Design Award. The award is administrated by iF International Forum Design, based in Hannover, Germany. The award consists of nine categories: Product Design, Packaging Design, Communication Design, Service Design, Architecture, Interior Architecture, Professional Concept, User Experience (UX), and User Interface (UI).(3) Honda internal research Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Mitsubishi Corporation to Participate in Demonstration Project for New Hydrogen-Based Ironmaking JCN Newswire

Mitsubishi Corporation to Participate in Demonstration Project for New Hydrogen-Based Ironmaking

April 10, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 9, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Corporation ("MC") has agreed to participate in a demonstration project ("the Project") for the development of a hydrogen-based fluidized bed fine ore reduction process ("HYFOR") and electric smelting furnace (“Smelter”) as a strategic partner of Primetals Technologies ("Primetals") (Headquarters: UK, steel machinery company), along with Rio Tinto (Headquarters: UK/Australia, mining company) and voestalpine (Headquarters: Austria, steel company).This project entails constructing and operating an industrial-scale prototype plant for a new hydrogen-based ironmaking process at the voestalpine steelworks in Linz, Austria. Operations are scheduled to begin in mid-2027. The new ironmaking process has a projected capacity of 3 tons per hour and will produce hot metal and hot briquetted iron using the HYFOR and Smelter technologies developed by Primetals. Rio Tinto will supply 70 percent of the iron ore for the Project.HYFOR is the world’s first direct reduction technology for iron ore fines that does not require any agglomeration steps and enables the use of a wide variety of iron ores as feedstock. Since 2021, Primetals has operated a pilot plant and has run numerous successful test campaigns. By using hydrogen derived from renewable energy, it can also significantly reduce CO2 emissions compared to existing ironmaking processes. Powered by renewable energy, the Smelter is used for melting and final reduction of direct reduced iron (“DRI”) to produce hot metal for the steelmaking plant. Funding for the investment and operation of this prototype plant has been provided by the Austrian federal government and the European Union.DRI has low CO2 emissions in the ironmaking process and the demand for DRI is expected to increase in the medium to long term. Once HYFOR and Smelter technologies are demonstrated through the Project, they will play an important role in decarbonizing the steel industry. Through the promotion of this project, MC will continue to contribute to the realization of a decarbonized society.About voestalpinevoestalpine is a globally leading steel and technology group with a unique combination of materials and processing expertise. voestalpine, which operates globally, has around 500 Group companies and locations in more than 50 countries on all five continents. The voestalpine Group has been listed on the Vienna Stock Exchange since 1995. With its premium products and system solutions, voestalpine is a leading partner to the automotive and consumer goods industries, as well as to the aerospace and energy industries. The company is also the global market leader in railway systems, tool steel, and special sections. voestalpine is committed to the global climate goals and has a clear plan for transforming steel production with its greentec steel program. In the business year 2023/24, the Group generated revenue of EUR 16.7 billion, with an operating result (EBITDA) of EUR 1.7 billion; it has around 51,600 employees worldwide.About Rio TintoRio Tinto operates in 35 countries where our 60,000 employees are working to find better ways to provide the materials the world needs. Our portfolio includes iron ore, copper, aluminium and a range of other minerals and materials needed for people, communities and nations to grow and prosper, and for the world to cut greenhouse gas emissions to net zero. We have more than 150 years of mining and processing experience guiding our work. We have put climate change at the heart of our strategy, combining investments in commodities that enable the energy transition with actions to decarbonise our operations and value chains.About Primetals TechnologiesPrimetals Technologies, Limited, headquartered in London, United Kingdom, is a pioneer and world leader in the fields of engineering, plant building, and the provision of lifecycle services for the metals industry. The company offers a complete technology, product, and services portfolio that includes integrated electrics and automation, digitalization, and environmental solutions. This covers every step of the iron and steel production chain—from the raw materials to the finished product—and includes the latest rolling solutions for the nonferrous metals sector. Primetals Technologies is a Group Company of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, with around 7,000 employees worldwide.About Mitsubishi CorporationMitsubishi Corporation is a global integrated business enterprise that develops and operates business together with its offices and subsidiaries worldwide. MC has 8 Business Groups that operate across virtually every industry: Environmental Energy, Material Solution, Mineral Resources, Urban Development and Infrastructure, Mobility, Food Industry, Smart-Life Creation, and Power Solution.Inquiry RecipientMitsubishi CorporationTelephone:+81-3-3210-2171 Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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MHIEC Completes Refurbishment of Core Facilities of Waste-to-Energy Plant in Miyazaki City JCN Newswire

MHIEC Completes Refurbishment of Core Facilities of Waste-to-Energy Plant in Miyazaki City

April 9, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 9, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Environmental & Chemical Engineering Co., Ltd. (MHIEC), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has completed refurbishment of the core facilities of Eco Clean Plaza Miyazaki, a waste-to-energy plant in Miyazaki city in southern part of Kyushu. The refurbishment work, which was ordered in 2021, took place over a four-year span from FY2021 through FY2024. The refurbishment, enabling a waste treatment capacity of 579 tonnes per day (tpd), has extended the plant's service life and achieved reduction in CO2 emissions.Eco Clean Plaza Miyazaki encompasses facilities not only for waste incineration but also recycling and final waste management. It treats waste from Miyazaki city as well as nine nearby localities. The incineration facilities were designed and constructed by MHI and completed in October 2005. They incorporate three stoker type incinerators(Note1) each having a waste treatment capacity of 193 tpd, and related facilities. Power generation capacity using waste heat is 11,200 kW.Under the refurbishment work, upgrades have been made to major equipment superannuated after more than 15 years in operation, to achieve stable combustion and operation over the long term. Replacements include equipment involved in combustion, cooling of combustion gas, waste gas treatment, waste heat utilization, ventilation, and ash removal, as well as electrical instrumentation. Plant service life extension work was carried out adopting MHIEC's proprietary new combustion control system. Stable combustion has been realized with a lower air ratio(Note2) than previously.A CO2 reduction rate of 31.86%(Note3) was attained, significantly higher than the original 17.25% target. Factors contributing to the higher rate include: replacement to a feeder and boiler piping that enable higher durability responding to the low air ratio; increased power generation making efficient use of waste steam, achieved by changing to a low-temperature denitration catalyst; and the compound effects of adopting high-efficiency motors, converting to inverter type equipment, and optimization of plant equipment.The refurbishment work was difficult because it had to be undertaken amid continuing waste treatment, and because it coincided with the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. Nevertheless, work proceeded on schedule thanks to the further strengthening of coordination with all relevant counterparts and meticulous care exercised throughout, enabling the project to be successfully completed on time.MHIEC succeeded MHI's environmental protection business in 2008, taking over its accumulated technological development capabilities in environmental protection systems and abundant expertise in the construction, operation, and maintenance of waste management facilities both in Japan and overseas. Based on this robust track record, the company is well positioned to propose comprehensive solutions encompassing all aspects from plant construction to operation and maintenance. Going forward, the Company will continue proactively proposing solutions for extending the service life of existing waste treatment facilities, coping with global warming, and reducing maintenance, management and other lifecycle costs, to contribute to realization of a carbon neutral society.1A stoker furnace is the main type of waste-to-energy plant. Air is supplied from below a fire grate made of heat-resistant castings to propel the materials to be burned (waste, etc.).2Air ratio is calculated by dividing the real volume of air fed into the incinerator by the theoretical minimal amount of air necessary for waste combustion.3CO2 reduction rate based on the Ministry of the Environment's published material.Overview of Eco Clean Plaza Miyazaki Incineration PlantTreatment capacity579 tonnes per day (193 tpd x 3 units)Treatment methodIncineration (stoker type)Power generation capacity11,200 kWAbout MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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NEC Face Recognition Ranks First in NIST Accuracy Testing JCN Newswire

NEC Face Recognition Ranks First in NIST Accuracy Testing

April 9, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 9, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) today announced that its face recognition technology was ranked the world’s most accurate in the most recent benchmark test (1) conducted by the globally recognized U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) (2).The latest Face Recognition Technology Evaluation (FRTE) 1:N Identification report indicates that NEC’s system received the highest performance rating, with an authentication error rate of 0.07%, in the "1:N Identification" test (3) using still images of 12 million people. In addition, it also ranked first in two aging tests using images taken more than 10 and 12 years ago (4), and was ranked in the top two in all eight major FRTE 1:N Identification categories listed on the NIST website.The NIST-sponsored benchmark test for face recognition technology is a thorough and fair process in which the NIST impartially evaluates programs developed and submitted by each organization under identical conditions. It is widely considered to be one of the few tests that allow users who are considering the introduction of face recognition technology to centrally compare the performance of algorithms from various organizations around the world.Since its first participation in 2009, NEC has repeatedly been ranked first in the world in the 1:N authentication test, which requires higher accuracy than any other face recognition technology benchmark test sponsored by the NIST. Particularly, in the aging test, which uses images that are more than 10 years old, equivalent to the expiration date of a passport, NEC has won first place with overwhelming accuracy that is unrivaled by any other organization.Through continuous improvements to its core algorithms, NEC has expanded the scope of application of its face recognition technology to approximately 80 airports around the world, as well as transportation facilities, office buildings, factories, hotels, theme parks, hospitals, apartment buildings, stores, financial institutions, and local governments, and has developed face recognition business in more than 50 countries and regions worldwide. The use of this technology is not limited to access control, but includes a wide range of applications to improve customer experience and security, such as hospitality, monitoring, in-store payments, and procedures at ATMs.In the future, NEC will not only continue to focus on replacing physical identity verification methods and physical security, but will also accelerate the development and provision of solutions that can be adapted to new use cases in an ever-growing digital society.At the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, which opens on April 13, 2025, NEC will provide a face recognition system for admission control for visitors who have purchased a full-year pass or summer pass, in addition to payments at stores in the venue (5), and will also provide a decentralized identity (DID)/verifiable credentials (VC) face recognition solution "NEC Digital Identity VCs Connect" for "null2," the signature pavilion produced by media artist Yoichi Ochiai (6).The DID/VC solution enables the creation of a "self-sovereign identity," where individuals manage their own information independently, reducing reliance on service providers and cloud vendors for digital data management. This will enable individuals to use digital services with greater peace of mind than ever before.NEC is thoroughly committed to following the NEC Group AI and Human Rights Principles (7) in its use of AI, biometric data, and other data, placing the highest priority on privacy and respect for human rights.NEC offers end-to-end digital transformation (DX) services, from strategy and concept consulting to implementation-focused offerings, based on the three pillars of business models, technology, and organization/talent. Additionally, in its shift from a traditional systems integrator to a "Value Driver," NEC restructured its value creation model under the name "NEC BluStellar"(8), which leverages NEC's cutting-edge technologies, developed and refined through years of experience and proven cross-industry expertise, aiming to transform business models, address social challenges, resolve management issues faced by customers, and lead them into a brighter future.(1) An evaluation of the accuracy of identification algorithms using a large dataset of over 10 million people. This global benchmark test involves top vendors from all over the world. www.nist.gov/programs-projects/face-recognition-vendor-test-frvt-ongoingResults shown from NIST do not constitute an endorsement of any particular system, product, service, or company by NIST.(2) NIST is a U.S. government agency established to strengthen technological innovation and industrial competitiveness.(3) The test involves identifying a user by comparing the face information on the authentication device with the face information of multiple people enrolled in a database.(4) As of March 18, 2025. The error rate is measured against a database for law enforcement agencies (called "Mugshot") with 12 million individuals enrolled and represents the false negative rate when the false positive rate is 0.3%. NEC’s algorithm also received the highest accuracy rating in three other tests, including a test that matched images taken more than 10 years ago with current images (the immigration database "Border 10+YRS"). Source: Face Recognition Technology Evaluation (FRTE) (NISTIR 8271 DRAFT SUPPLEMENT, 2025/03/18)(5) Press Release: "NEC Introduces Face Recognition System for Stores and Admissions at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan"www.nec.com/en/press/202405/global_20240523_02.html(6) Press Release: "NEC provides technical support for the "null2" Signature Pavilion at World Expo 2025"www.nec.com/en/press/202412/global_20241225_01.html(7) Press Release: "NEC Group AI and Human Rights Principles"www.nec.com/en/press/201904/global_20190402_01.html(8) NEC BluStellar is a value creation model that leverages NEC’s cutting-edge technologies, developed and refined through years of experience and proven cross-industry expertise. It aims to transform business models, address social challenges, resolve management issues faced by customers, and lead them into a brighter future.About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at www.nec.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Sonofai revolutionizes frozen tuna inspection with new device incorporating Fujitsu AI tech JCN Newswire

Sonofai revolutionizes frozen tuna inspection with new device incorporating Fujitsu AI tech

April 9, 2025
Kawasaki and Shizuoka, Japan, Apr 9, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu Limited and Sonofai Inc., Ishida Tec Co., Ltd., and Tokai University today announced the launch of an automated inspection device that determines the fat content of frozen albacore tuna in a non-destructive manner. The device, which deploys Fujitsu’s AI technology, is being launched by Sonofai Inc., a Japanese startup dedicated to preserving artisanal techniques through digital innovation. Ishida Tec Co., Ltd., a manufacturer of food processing equipment, and Tokai University, which is driving innovation in the food processing industry also contributed to the collaboration. Sonofai will launch the newly developed inspection device SONOFAI T-01 in June 2025, initially targeting the seafood processing industry and fisheries cooperatives in Japan, before expanding globally. This effort comes against the backdrop of a sustained increase in demand for high-quality tuna around the world, with the Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency noting a 25% rise in the last 20 years (1).The SONOFAI T-01 leverages Fujitsu's ultrasound analysis AI technology, a core engine of the Fujitsu Kozuchi AI service, and is the first device of its kind that can determine the fat content of frozen tuna in a non-destructive manner. This enables automated, highly accurate fat content assessment without the need for human visual inspection. Conventional methods of assessment rely on skilled workers visually inspecting thawed cross-sections of the tail, which is a labor-intensive, time-consuming process, and prone to inconsistencies due to variations in individual judgment and a shortage of skilled personnel.The device allows for a complete inspection of the tuna in 12 seconds and can be operated by one person, offering potential labor and operational efficiency savings of up to 80%. By enabling rapid screening of large quantities of frozen tuna, the device reduces the burden on skilled workers, significantly improves the efficiency of the selection process, and contributes to reducing costs and addressing labor shortages. It also allows for greater accuracy and reduces the opportunity cost of mislabeling the high-value, fatty "bintoro" portions of the fish.The device was trialed at Toyo Reizo Co., Ltd. in 2024, Kato Tokuhiro, Executive Officer comments:“Tuna, gathered from fishing grounds around the world over approximately a year by deep-sea longline fishing vessels, is landed, sorted, and distributed nationwide at Shimizu Port in Shizuoka Prefecture. Each day, skilled professionals assess the quality of over 1,000 tuna, sorting them within seconds while maintaining their frozen state, before transporting them to ultra-low-temperature storage facilities (below -50°C). Before shipment, the tail-cut grading process is conducted by expert assessors, who examine the cross-section of the tuna’s tail to determine its quality. Based on this assessment, the tuna is shipped to respective customers. The newly developed technology is a groundbreaking innovation that enables precise assessment of internal fat content during the tail-cut grading process, addressing existing challenges in the industry. Looking ahead, we will continue to engage in initiatives that involve regional collaboration, industry-academia partnerships, and startups, striving to solve challenges in the fisheries industry through innovation.”Fujitsu and Tokai University, which is known for its research into tuna flavor, began the joint research project in April 2022 to develop ultrasound analysis AI technology. In December 2023, validation tests on albacore tuna demonstrated that the AI technology could determine fat content with a higher accuracy rate than tail-cut selection. To commercialize this research, Ishida Tec developed automated inspection equipment optimized for ultrasound analysis AI, and Sonofai incorporated the ultrasound analysis AI technology licensed and technically supported by Fujitsu into the SONOFAI T-01 device.Sonofai plans to add a range of functions, including the ability to determine freshness, firmness, etc., and expand the range of compatible fish species. In the future, the company aims to contribute to the management of aquatic resources by enabling the device to measure body length and weight for all inspected fish. Furthermore, by utilizing the device within Ishida Tec's planned system for sorting and evaluating the quality of frozen skipjack tuna immediately after landing, it will be possible to perform instantaneous quality-based sorting at large fishing ports, contributing to significant labor savings and increased added value.The device was developed with a subsidy from the Marine Open Innovation Project (MaOI Project) which is being promoted by Shizuoka Prefecture.Yasutomo Suzuki, Governor of Shizuoka comments:"The fishing industry is a cornerstone of Shizuoka Prefecture’s economy, and its enduring health is paramount. This device offers the potential to revitalize the industry by supporting the discovery of previously overlooked high-quality tuna and enabling the development of valuable marine products. In addition, automating the selection process will reduce the burden of securing personnel and contribute to the sustainability fisheries. Shizuoka Prefecture will continue to work with businesses to create and share new value on a global scale."(1) Source: Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency report (Japanese Only)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$28 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: www.fujitsu.com.About Sonofai Inc.Sonofai Inc. is a startup based in Shizuoka, Japan, dedicated to preserving traditional craftsmanship through the power of digital innovation. The company specializes in non-destructive inspection systems powered by ultrasonic AI analysis, providing advanced solutions for the food processing, fisheries, and agriculture industries. By combining hardware and software expertise, Sonofai delivers cutting-edge technology from regional Japan to the global stage, contributing to more sustainable and efficient production systems. Learn more: www.sonofai.co.jpAbout Ishida Tec Co., Ltd.Ishida Tec Co., Ltd., headquartered in Yaizu, Shizuoka, is a custom equipment manufacturer specializing in automation solutions for the food and pharmaceutical industries. Since its founding in 1948, the company has been dedicated to designing and building robust, precise, and user-friendly machinery that addresses challenges on the production floor. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies including AI and ultrasonic inspection, Ishida Tec drives innovation in manufacturing processes and supports sustainability across the value chain. Learn more: www.ishida-tec.co.jpAbout Tokai UniversityTokai University was founded in 1942. With an educational philosophy of "integrating the arts and sciences," Tokai University aims to nurture talented individuals with broad perspectives and flexible imagination, without focusing too much on knowledge. Learn more: https://www.u-tokai.ac.jp/Press ContactsFujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiriesSonofai Inc.E-mail: contact@sonofai.co.jpIshida Tec Co., Ltd.Phone: 054-628-6161E-mail: info@ishida-tec.co.jpTokai UniversityKeiichi Goto, Department of Marine Science, School of Marine Science and TechnologyPhone: 054-337-0144E-mail: kgoto@tokai.ac.jp Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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NEC Orchestrating Future Fund invests in Rescale, Inc., provider of a leading digital engineering platform for cloud high-performance computing (HPC)

April 9, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 8, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Orchestrating Future Fund*, an ecosystem-based corporate venture capital (CVC) fund, has invested in new windowRescale, Inc. (Rescale), a San Francisco-based technology company that provides cloud high performance computing (HPC).BackgroundIn response to greater demand for new innovative products, enterprises are increasing their investments in technologies that expedite time to market. High-performance computing has grown to a PDF$50 billion market, simulation software a new window$20 billion market, and product lifecycle data management a new window$30 billion market. With the growing adoption of these solutions in the enterprise, teams are challenged to integrate the increasingly complex stack of software, hardware, and data systems into a unified control plane and user experience. Further, applied AI solutions are advancing rapidly, but most organizations lack a cohesive platform to embed these capabilities into the analysis, modeling, and simulation workflows for physics, chemistry, and biology. Rescale offers a comprehensive platform for integrating compute, data, and AI capabilities into a seamless experience, enabling organizations to focus on innovation and discovery.Opportunities for NECNEC has a proven history of providing computing platforms in Japan and Europe, such as the LX-neo, CPU/GPU solutions, and the SX-Aurora TSUBASA vector processor, to meet the various needs of customers. However, additional services, such as simulation software offerings and the optimization of energy efficiency, are required to enhance these advanced computing solutions.With the investment in Rescale, NEC plans to provide Rescale cloud services as one of its optimization solutions to meet customer needs. In addition, NEC and Rescale have started discussions to collaborate in the proposal of hybrid services featuring both on-premises and cloud options.About Rescale's solutions1. Cloud HPCRescale offers a flexible environment to meet customers’ needs, such as increasing or decreasing computing resources and selecting a software environment. Rescale’s Compute Recommendation Engine dynamically tailors compute resources to each job―analyzing the simulation type, dataset size, sensitivity to speed versus cost, and more. Organizations can also choose a data center in Japan, North America, Europe, etc., so that their operation can securely take advantage of the best global hardware resources, while also providing the option to only operate within Japan. Rescale’s platform has been certified to the highest level of security standards, meeting the requirements for highly confidential and proprietary R&D activities with sensitive data. A unified HPC stack gives engineering teams everything they need to scale compute. The fully consumption-based system with zero initial cost makes it easy to use HPC computation resources without significant upfront capital expenditures.2. Intelligent dataRescale’s data platform turns raw simulation results into structured knowledge, providing a digital thread across the product development cycle. This helps teams organize, label, and structure results, making it easier to extract insights and apply them to future projects. Teams can tag and group files, apply retention policies, and manage access at the individual user level―while integrating with tools like PLM, SPDM, and internal APIs, so data stays unified across systems and workflows.3. Applied AIRescale unlocks a new frontier in AI modeling and simulation. With AI Physics, engineers can train models that simulate the physical world, delivering predictions up to new window1,000 times faster than traditional methods. Instead of running thousands of simulations over weeks, teams can train an AI model on existing simulation data, and predict performance across countless scenarios in seconds. Confirmatory simulations can efficiently be run to ground the AI models and ensure a high level of accuracy for final verification and certification. Teams are able to build an AI digital twin, capturing the engineering intelligence of their organization."The NEC Orchestrating Future Fund invests in startups that are pioneering new markets with cutting-edge technologies and innovative business models," said Shigeki Wada, Corporate SVP, NEC Corporation. "The advanced technological capabilities and flexible cloud-based services provided by Rescale enable value creation across a wide range of fields, from research and development to industrial applications, which is in line with NEC's vision of creating flexible, resilient and sustainable societies. Together with Rescale, we will accelerate our efforts to create new social value.""Today’s most important breakthroughs depend on how fast engineering teams can move from idea to insight," said Joris Poort, Founder and CEO, Rescale, Inc. "Unfortunately, most teams are still stuck using infrastructure that wasn’t designed for the scale, complexity, or speed of modern R&D. Rescale gives every engineer and scientist access to the compute, data, and AI tools they need to accelerate innovation―empowering the next generation of breakthroughs and continuing Japan’s legacy of engineering precision and technological leadership."(*)NEC Orchestrating Future FundAn ecosystem-type corporate venture capital fund in which multiple companies that share NEC's vision of the future of society, "NEC 2030VISION," participate.About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at www.nec.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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SITA and NEC Collaborate to Drive Global Adoption of Digital Identities in Travel JCN Newswire

SITA and NEC Collaborate to Drive Global Adoption of Digital Identities in Travel

April 9, 2025
GENEVA and TOKYO, Apr 8, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - SITA, the global leader in air transport technology and border management, and NEC Corporation (NEC), a global leader in biometric authentication technologies, have signed an agreement to accelerate the adoption of digital identity technology in the travel industry.Through this collaboration, NEC joins SITA’s Digital Travel Ecosystem, an open, interoperable framework that connects various systems for real-time digital identity verification. Developed in partnership with Indicio, SITA’s ecosystem eliminates the need for direct integrations between issuers and verifiers, simplifying adoption for airports, airlines and governments.At the core of the ecosystem is the Trust Network, which governs how digital credentials are shared securely around the world. Built with a privacy-by-design approach, it gives travelers control over their data, including when and with whom they share their credentials. Strong emphasis on data security and privacy means that personal information remains protected and in the hands of the traveler.With 28% of airlines and 43% of airports planning to implement biometric identity management solutions in the next 12 months (SITA Air Transport IT Insights 2024), demand for interoperable systems is growing. A lack of standardization has slowed widespread adoption, but the SITA-NEC collaboration addresses this challenge through a scalable framework for secure identity exchange."After years of investment, aviation and other travel stakeholders are now seeing the full potential of digital identities, and the industry is gearing up to scale," said Jeremy Springall, Senior Vice President of Borders at SITA. "With NEC’s biometric expertise and SITA’s industry-leading footprint of biometric touchpoints around the world, we’re well-positioned to accelerate the transformation of Digital Travel worldwide.""NEC brings more than 125 years of innovation and a global track record in trusted identity technologies," said Nanaumi Nagamine, Senior Director of the DID Department at NEC. "With SITA, we’ve delivered proven biometric solutions at airports around the world, creating secure and seamless travel experiences for thousands of passengers every day. This expanded collaboration will accelerate global adoption and set a new standard for trusted digital identity in travel."By addressing longstanding interoperability challenges, the SITA and NEC collaboration will increase the adoption of digital identities by passengers, helping the industry reduce bottlenecks, improve security, and enhance the passenger experience at every touchpoint.SITA photos available here: www.sita.aero/pressroom/image-gallery and videos and infographics here: www.sita.aero/pressroom About SITASITA is the air transport industry's IT provider, delivering solutions for airlines, airports, aircraft and governments. Our technology powers more seamless, safe, secure and sustainable air travel.With around 2,500 customers, SITA’s solutions drive operational efficiencies at more than 1,000 airports while delivering the promise of the connected aircraft to customers of over 18,000 aircraft globally. SITA also provides technology solutions that help more than 70 governments strike the balance of secure borders and seamless travel. Its communications network connects every corner of the globe, and SITA bridges 45% of the air transport community’s data exchange.In 2023, the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) approved SITA’s near-term and long-term emission reduction targets. These science-based targets are pivotal in guiding the company’s climate actions to curtail greenhouse gas emissions effectively. SITA is also developing solutions to help the aviation industry meet its carbon reduction objectives, including reduced fuel burn and greater operational efficiencies.In 2024, SITA acquired Materna IPS, leader in passenger handling, to create the world’s most powerful passenger portfolio for airports and digital travel. SITA then acquired ASISTIM, to offer a fully-fledged airline flight Operations Control Center managed service. The company also launched SmartSea to give the maritime industry access to the same advanced technology that is transforming air travel. The launch comes as part of SITA’s expansion into cruise and rail, as well Urban Air Mobility, such as Vertiports.SITA is 100% owned by the industry and driven by its needs. It is one of the most internationally diverse companies, providing services in over 200 countries and territories.Go to www.sita.aero for more information.About NECNEC 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.Further information on NEC can be found at: www.nec.com Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Cryofocus Medtech: Steady Increase in Revenue and Gross Profit with Solid R&D Expenditures in 2024

April 8, 2025
HONG KONG, Apr 1, 2025 - Cryofocus Medtech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (“Cryofocus Medtech” or the “Company”, stock code: 6922.HK), announced its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2024 (the “Reporting Period”). In 2024, Cryofocus Medtech achieved a total revenue of RMB53.5 million, an increase of 30.7% year-over-year (“YoY”), which was mainly driven by the increase in the sales volume of the Group’s AF Cryoablation System, Cryoadhesion System and other respiratory intervention products distributed by the Group serving as the exclusive distributor of BSC International Medical Trading (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. for such products in mainland China. During the Reporting Period, the Company's gross profit achieved an YoY increase of 23.7% to RMB38.4 million while the gross profit margin was 71.8%.In 2024 and 2025Q1, the Company's business has achieved various progress, including but not limited to:- The Company passed the good manufacturing practice examination for its Atrial Fibrillation Cryoablation System (“AF Cryoablation System”) in January 2024;- The Company received marketing approval for the Cryoadhesion System in January 2024, after securing the NMPA approval for the accompanying cryotherapy equipment in December 2023 and the disposable cryoprobe in January 2024;- The Benign Stenosis Cryoablation System entered into the confirmatory clinical trial phase in January 2024;- The Company has submitted the registration application for its Anti-Gastroesophageal Reflux System in May 2024;- The Company entered into a distribution agreement with BSC International Medical Trading (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. in respect of respiratory intervention products in mainland China in July 2024;- In October2024, the Company announced it entered into a scientific research collaboration agreement with the Guangzhou National Laboratory and the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University. The Company will jointly participate in and complete the research and development of the liquid nitrogen ultra-low temperature cryoablation system and the research on cryoballoon ablation for lung cancer;- The Company received the NMPA approval for its Malignant Stenosis Cryoablation System, System, which is one of the Group’s respiratory intervention products, in March 2025.Continuous increase in value of comprehensive product portfolioIn 2024, Cryofocus Medtech’s revenue has maintained a strong growth trend within the interventional cryotherapy industry. The total revenue of Cryofocus Medtech increased by 30.7% YoY to RMB53.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2024.Cryofocus Medtech is an innovative medical device company in China with a main focus on the field of minimally-invasive interventional cryotherapy. The Company uses liquid nitrogen as the main cryogenic source for cryotherapy systems by leveraging its unique liquid nitrogen cryoablation technology and advanced flexible catheter technology. Since its inception in 2013, Cryofocus Medtech has developed a comprehensive product portfolio mainly focusing on two therapeutic areas: 1) vascular interventional therapy for the treatment of atrial fibrillation, hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases; and 2) natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery, or NOTES, for the treatment of urinary, respiratory, and digestive diseases. The Company’s competitive advantage, technologies and product pipeline have helped establishing high entry barriers difficult for its competitors to surpass.Cryofocus Medtech has developed a comprehensive product portfolio including 14 cryotherapy products and product candidates with a main focus on vascular intervention and NOTES, as well as 9 additional non-cryotherapy products and product candidates. The Company has commercialized ten products as of 31 March 2025.Significant progress in business development driven by continued R&D innovationDuring 2024, Cryofocus Medtech has made significant progress in the development of product candidates. The Company received marketing approval for the Cryoadhesion System in January 2024, after securing the NMPA approval for the accompanying cryotherapy equipment in December 2023 and the disposable cryoprobe in January 2024. On the same month, the Benign Stenosis Cryoablation System entered into the confirmatory clinical trial phase while the Company passed the good manufacturing practice (GMP) examination for its AF Cryoablation System, which has also been commercialized in China in September 2024. Moreover, the Company has submitted the registration application for its Anti-Gastroesophageal Reflux System in May 2024, and is expected to receive NMPA approval in 1H2025.In 2024, the Company's total R&D expenditure was approximately RMB 73.46 million, basically remained the same as compared to the same period in 2023, and will continue to promote the commercialization of the Company's products under development.According to the planning and expected progress of clinical trials of its product candidates, between 2025 and 2027, the Company will submit the product registration submission to the NMPA for 10 product candidates developed in different stages of clinical trials, including Cryo-RDN System, Asthma Cryoablation, COPD Cryospray system, Benign Stenosis Cryoablation System, Peri-Pulmonary Nodule Cryoablation System, Cough Cryospray System, Tuberculosis Cryospray System, Gastric Cryoablation System, Esophageal Cryospray System and Atrial Fibrillation Pulsed Field Ablation System. All of the abovementioned product candidates is expected to obtain commercialization approval from the NMPA in 2026 and 2027, respectively. Against this backdrop, it clearly showed that many of the Company's key product candidates under development will be expected to be commercialized in the next two to three years, continuously expanding Cryofocus Medtech’s revenue streams and providing strong support for its early realization of profitability.Cryofocus Medtech has established a dedicated product development team led by industry experts with extensive experience in the medical device industry or in the field of engineering research and development. As of December 31, 2024, the Company’s product development team consisted of an in-house research and development team of 70 employees and a clinical operation team of 24 employees. Cryofocus Medtech has also developed relationships with industry leaders, including scientists, physicians and industry practitioners, giving the Company a thorough understanding of the clinical needs and demands of patients and physicians. The Company has built a comprehensive intellectual property portfolio in China and overseas to protect its technologies, including its core liquid nitrogen cryoablation technology, flexible catheter technology and other key technologies. As of December 31, 2024, Cryofocus Medtech owned 159 patents and 70 patent applications in China and overseas, representing an YoY increase of 39 patients and 28 patent applications.In 2024, the Company manufactured, assembled and tested its products at the production facilities located in two regions, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province and Shanghai, with a total gross floor area of over 17,400 square meters. The Company produces commercial products, mainly including its Core Products as well as other commercialized products, including its Pulmonary Nodule Localization Needle, Laparoscopic Single Port Multi-Channel Access Platform, and also produces, assembles and tests sample products related to NOTES at its production facilities in Ningbo. The Company produces, assembles and tests sample products related to vascular intervention for product development at its facility in Shanghai.Finally, it is worth noting that in July 2024, the Company entered into a distribution agreement with BSC International Medical Trading (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (“BSC International “) in respect of respiratory intervention products in mainland China. BSC International is a subsidiary of Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE stock symbol: BSX) in China. Boston Scientific is a global leader in medical technology, advancing life sciences by providing a broad range of high-performance solutions that address patient needs and reduce the cost of healthcare. Boston Scientific’s portfolio of devices and therapies helps physicians diagnose and treat complex cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, oncological, neurological and urological diseases and conditions. Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, Cryofocus Medtech will market, promote and serve as the exclusive distributor of BSC International for products in the respiratory intervention field in mainland China, combining the resources and support of BSC International and Cryofocus Medtech to promote the commercialization of such designated products in mainland China.Future and OutlookThe mission of Cryofocus Medtech is to become a global medical device platform in the field of minimally-invasive interventional cryotherapy, bringing benefits to patients and physicians worldwide with its cryotherapy technology.In 2025, in order to achieve this goal, the Company plans to rapidly advance the clinical development and commercialization of its product candidates; further expand the product portfolio leveraging technology platforms and continue to focus on minimally-invasive interventional cryotherapy; continue to research and develop various underlying and supporting technologies; and selectively expand its worldwide footprint.About Cryofocus Medtech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (6922.HK)Cryofocus Medtech is an innovative medical device company in China with a main focus on the field of minimally-invasive interventional cryotherapy. Since its inception in 2013, the Company has developed a comprehensive product portfolio mainly focusing on two therapeutic areas: vascular interventional therapy and natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery, or NOTES. The product pipeline of Cryofocus Medtech includes a variety of cryotherapy systems and surgical consumables, four of which were recognized as "innovative medical devices" by the NMPA or its provincial counterparts, according to Frost & Sullivan. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Xforce HEV Model Earns the Highest Rating of Five Stars in 2024 ASEAN NCAP JCN Newswire

Xforce HEV Model Earns the Highest Rating of Five Stars in 2024 ASEAN NCAP

April 8, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 7, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (hereafter, Mitsubishi Motors) announced that the new hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) model of the Xforce compact SUV has earned a maximum five-star rating in the 2024 ASEAN NCAP(1) — a comprehensive safety performance assessment for new vehicles in the ASEAN region — following the same top rating received by the gasoline model earlier in 2024.Mitsubishi Motors remains committed to its safety-oriented philosophy of achieving a mobility society with zero traffic accidents through continued efforts to develop and popularize safety technologies, and to spread knowledge about traffic safety.The Xforce HEV model is equipped with Mitsubishi Motors' advanced driver assistance system, Mitsubishi Motors Safety Sensing. It features six advanced safety functions, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Mitigation system (FCM), Blind Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist (BSW / LCA), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Automatic High Beam (AHB), and Lead Car Departure Notification (LCDN), providing a high level of preventive safety performance.In addition, the Xforce HEV ensures collision safety performance with the high-rigidity RISE(2) body, which absorbs impact energy and minimizes cabin deformation in the event of a crash, along with six SRS airbags.The Xforce HEV model, premiered in Thailand in March 2025, is based on the Xforce3 originally launched in Indonesia in 2023 and is now equipped with an HEV system. This compact five-seat SUV was developed around the concept of being the "best-suited buddy for an exciting life," and is equipped with an HEV system derived from the brand’s renowned plug-in hybrid EV (PHEV) technology. It features higher fuel economy, eco-friendliness, and powerful acceleration. Additionally, Active Yaw Control (AYC), seven drive modes, and other all-wheel control technologies complement the front-wheel drivetrain to enable safe and secure driving in various situations.(1) New Car Assessment Program for Southeast Asian Countries(2) Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution3.Sold as the Outlander Sport In some marketsAbout Mitsubishi MotorsMitsubishi Motors Corporation (TSE:7211) — a member of the Alliance with Renault and Nissan — is a global automobile company based in Tokyo, Japan, which has about 28,000 employees and a global footprint with production facilities in Japan and the ASEAN region. Mitsubishi Motors has a competitive edge in SUVs, pickup trucks and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and appeals to ambitious drivers willing to challenge convention and embrace innovation. Since the production of our first vehicle more than a century ago, Mitsubishi Motors has been a leader in electrification — launched the i-MiEV, the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle in 2009, followed by the Outlander PHEV, the world’s first plug-in hybrid electric SUV in 2013. With a target of increasing the sales ratio of electrified vehicles to 100% by 2035, Mitsubishi Motors will deliver models that embody Mitsubishi Motors-ness and contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society.For more information on Mitsubishi Motors, please visit the company's website athttps://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/ Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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MHI Establishes Branch Office in Perth, Western Australia, Focused on Decarbonization Business JCN Newswire

MHI Establishes Branch Office in Perth, Western Australia, Focused on Decarbonization Business

April 8, 2025
TOKYO, Apr 7, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has newly established a branch office of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Australia, Pty. Ltd. (MHI-AUS) in Perth, in Western Australia state, to conduct business relating to decarbonization. The new Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Australia Perth Office was created to secure a solid foothold in Perth, the main economic center of all western Australia which serves as a major base of operations involving environmental protection, and to probe further business opportunities relating to Australia's energy policies and the building of a sustainable society.Western Australia state is currently undergoing robust economic development primarily based on its mining and natural resources industries, and Perth in particular, being the main city of the region, is playing a significant role in this growth. Perth is also achieving infrastructure development spurred by legislative and policy support measures of the state government pursuant to hydrogen, ammonia and CCUS (carbon dioxide capture, utilization and storage), resulting in growth in business opportunities relating to decarbonization projects. Going forward, through the new branch office MHI will deepen cooperative ties with local partner companies and further enhance provision of services to local customers, thereby contributing to the realization of a decarbonized society in Australia.MHI Group is currently strengthening its position in the Energy Transition, aiming for decarbonization on the energy supply side as part of its quest to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. With establishment of the new Perth Office, the Company will contribute to formulation of energy policies in Australia and continue initiatives that will aid in achieving a sustainable carbon neutral society.About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Gome Retail Continues to Focus on Its Main Business and Actively Resolve Debt JCN Newswire

Gome Retail Continues to Focus on Its Main Business and Actively Resolve Debt

April 7, 2025
HONG KONG, Apr 1, 2025 - Gome Retail Holdings Limited (Stock code: 493.HK, "Gome Retail" or the "Company"), together with its subsidiaries, "the Group") announced its audited annual results during the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 (the "reporting period").Focusing on the main industry to consolidate the border, take multiple measures to actively resolve the debt problemIn 2024, domestic economic recovery is weak, with asevere and complex external international environment compounded by domestic economic and policy cycle factors. Domestic demand remained sluggish, directly impacting the industry to which our group belongs, which continued to experience a downturn. In 2024, the Group recorded sales revenue of approximately RMB 474 million; and loss attributable to owners of the parent of approximately RMB11,629 million.In 2024, Gome Retail continued to promote strategic transformation and upgrading and actively explored new businesses. However, in the fourth quarter of 2024, the government introduced several significant stimulus policies, the Group seizes opportunities and rides on the momentum, intensified efforts in model transformation and business innovations, such as franchise and quasi-franchise models and GOME Auto. In addition, recently, an agreement has been reached with JD on the CB debt disposal plan, which will clear all CB debts within two years through asset transfers and issuing shares.Reinventing retail business, accelerate the expansion of franchiseGome Retail accelerates its asset-light model and builds a closed loop of "brand authorization + supply chain empowerment + digital platform". Regarding franchising, comprehensively open brand authorizations, focus on supply chain model innovation, shift from appliance franchising to comprehensive business format investment, quickly build online and offline franchise networks at all levels. In terms of franchising, based on equity cooperation, we will focus on encouraging single-store franchising with an operating model of "light assets, heavy operations, and strong management", and build an "online and offline" pan-home appliance and surrounding franchise network for the entire industry with the city display stores display as the core. In the future, the Group targeted to sign more than 1000 franchise agreements, striving to become a leading comprehensive service provider integrating "offline and online franchise networks + supply chain + capital chain + industry chain + service chain".Actively explore new business growth curves and innovate new forms of automobile distributionDuring the reporting period, the company focused on its core business while seizing the development opportunities of the automobile industry and actively made strategic arrangements in the automobile distribution field. Aiming at the development pain points in the field of automobile distribution, relying on its own national channel network and business experience and other advantages, Gome is committed to creating a new industrial chain ecological benchmark for the automobile distribution industry based on cooperation and win-win results. During the reporting period, the first Gome Smart Car Experience Hall, located in Xibahe, a prime location in Beijing, is ready to go. It will bring together about 30 new energy vehicle brands to create a large-scale, comprehensive automobile consumption scene that integrates display, experience.Looking ahead, the Central Economic Work Conference at the end of 2024 has made it clear that a dual easing policy of fiscal, monetary and fiscal policies will be adopted in 2025, and the introduction of ?extraordinary counter-cyclical adjustments?. This represents the most proactive policy stance in recent years. Furthermore, 2025 marks the final year of the 14th Five-Year Plan, and governments at all levels will need to ensure the completion of key economic targets. Gome Retail management said: ?During the Reporting Period, the Group took solidsteps toward its strategic goals of light-asset expansion and technology-driven upgrades, achievingencouraging results in new business initiatives. Moving forward, the Group will continue to persevere, work hard, strive to turn the situation around and overcome difficulties. Under the positive influence of external policies, 2025 will likely see the largest-scale policy benefits in recent years. With the implementation of intensified domestic demand stimulus policies, the Group is expected to gradually return to the track of stable operation.?About GOME RETAIL HOLDINGS LIMITEDGOME RETAIL HOLDINGS LIMITED was listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in July 2004 (Stock Code: 493HK). Founded in 1987 in China, GOME is committed to building China's leading technology-based, experiential, entertainment-oriented and socialized home-life technology retailer. With the strategy of "Home-Life", Gome Group focuses on retailing of electrical appliances and consumer electronics products, and builds a closed-loop ecosystem for the entire product line.Please visit our website for more information: www.gome.com.hkIssued by EVER BLOOM (HK) COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANTS GROUP LIMITED for and on behalf of GOME Retail Holdings Limited. For further information, please contact:EVER BLOOM (HK) COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANTS GROUP LIMITEDMr Matthew Li / Ms Isla GuTel:(852) 3468 8874 Fax: (852) 2111 1103Maill: matthew.li@everbloom.com.cn / jin.gu@everbloom.com.cn Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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