Motive Asia

Sharp's first EV is like a living room... with a 65-inch display and comfortable air conditioning, it can also be used as a workplace On the 17th, Sharp introduced its first self-developed electric vehicle (EV) prototype, a minivan designed with a living room-like interior and a prominent LCD display. The company plans to make this vehicle operational within the next few years. This move comes amidst a competitive landscape, as major electronics companies, including Sony Group, are also developing EVs in collaboration with Honda, hinting at intensifying competition in the sector. The new prototype, named "LDK+", was developed using a chassis produced by Sharp's parent company, Hon Hai Precision Industry Group in Taiwan. Features of the vehicle include rear seats that can rotate backward, allowing passengers to enjoy movies and other entertainment on a large 65-inch display. Additionally, the vehicle incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) to learn user preferences for household appliances, enabling it to automatically adjust air conditioning and lighting to maintain a comfortable environment. The "LDK+" model will be publicly showcased during the "Sharp Tech Day" technology exhibition, held from the afternoon of the 17th to the 18th at the Tokyo International Forum in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo. This event will provide an opportunity for attendees to view and experience the innovative features of Sharp's new electric vehicle concept. #MotiveAsia #Japan https://lnkd.in/gGgyfNvn

Revision of Fukui Prefecture Urban Planning Master Plan The Fukui Prefecture Urban Planning Master Plan has undergone a revision, with the last update dated September 17, 2024. This comprehensive plan outlines the foundational direction for urban planning within Fukui Prefecture, aiming to materialize a future vision approximately 20 years ahead. It reflects the evolving social context and challenges faced by the city, and consists of a "Prefectural Basic Policy" that acts as a universal guideline for the entire prefecture, alongside an "Urban Planning Area Master Plan" that encompasses 11 distinct urban planning areas within the prefecture. The current iteration of the Fukui Prefecture Urban Planning Master Plan was originally revised in February 2014. Given that nearly a decade has transpired, new legal frameworks related to urban planning have been introduced and existing systems revised. The revision of the Urban Planning Master Plan incorporates these new perspectives and changes in societal conditions, necessitating updates to both the basic policy for the entire prefecture and the specific urban planning area plans. As of February 2024, the "Basic Policy for the Entire Prefecture" has been updated, while the "Urban Planning Area Master Plan" underwent its latest revision in September 2024. This review includes detailed plans for each of the 11 urban planning areas, such as Fukui, Reihoku North, Tannan, Oda, Ono, Katsuyama, Tsuruga, Obama Kaminaka, Mihama, Takahama, and Mikata, with each urban planning area having individual PDFs available that outline their respective plans. Additionally, feedback mechanisms have been established to improve the quality of the information presented on the website hosting this plan. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide their insights through questionnaires, with the option for more detailed communication via email. The Urban Planning Division, which oversees this initiative, can be contacted through various means including phone, fax, and email, with specified office hours for inquiries and assistance. #MotiveAsia #Japan https://lnkd.in/g5rHc8HP

JBM ECOLIFE Mobility, a subsidiary of JBM Auto Limited, has secured $100 million in funding from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). This capital will be used to supply and operate approximately 650 electric buses across various Indian states under a gross cost contract model. As of 12:45 PM, shares of JBM Auto Limited were trading at 2,017.75, reflecting a decrease of 7.95 or 0.39 percent on the National Stock Exchange (NSE). The investment comes after environmental, social, and governance (ESG) audits were conducted. JBM currently operates over 1,500 electric buses in 10 states and at more than 15 major airports in India, with a substantial order book of over 6,500 buses either deployed or in execution. Nishant Arya, the Vice Chairman and Managing Director of JBM Group, emphasized that the funding will help advance the company's commitment to sustainable development and support India’s goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070. JBM has established the world's largest dedicated electric bus manufacturing facility outside of China in Banchari, Palwal (Haryana), which has the capacity to produce 20,000 buses annually. The funding is intended to accelerate the development of clean energy public mobility solutions in urban and semi-urban areas, thereby contributing to India’s transition to a more sustainable transportation system. #MotiveAsia #India https://lnkd.in/gkfx2y4C

South Korea's Hyundai Motor Group reported strong electric vehicle (EV) sales in Germany from June to August, despite a general slowdown in EV demand, as highlighted by a global market research firm. Hyundai Motor Co. and its affiliate Kia Corp. achieved fifth place in the German EV market, with combined sales totaling 8,638 EVs during this three-month period, according to the US-based automotive market tracker Clean Technica. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 model has emerged as one of the bestselling EVs in Germany. In response to market conditions and to support sales, Hyundai and Kia are set to launch new models, including the Casper Electric mini car and the EV3 compact model, in Europe later this year. This strategy aims to bolster their sales figures amidst the current challenges in EV adoption. In the competitive landscape of the German EV market, Volkswagen Group led with 34,074 EVs sold in the same period, followed by BMW at 13,812 units, Mercedes-Benz with 10,084, and Tesla Inc. at 9,488 vehicles sold. This highlights the competitive nature of the market as various automakers vie for a share of the growing EV demand. #MotiveAsia #SouthKorea https://lnkd.in/gPErH_vj

An electric mobility traffic rules training session and test drive experience will be held at Akemai Danchi! An electric mobility traffic rules training session and test drive experience will take place at Akemai Danchi on September 28, 2024. This event is part of the "Project to turn the entire housing complex into a station-front area," organized by the Building and Housing Bureau Policy Division. The program features a sharing service for electric kick scooters and electric-assist bicycles named "LUUP," operated by Luup Co., Ltd., in the Kariguchidai and Akashi Maiko areas of Tarumi Ward. The training session is scheduled for Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 10:30 to 11:30, with cancellation if weather conditions are poor. The venue for the event will be UR Akashi Maiko Housing Complex's C6 Building North Plaza, with an alternative location at C13 Building East Plaza, also within the housing complex. Attendees should note that parking will not be available. Participants will learn about traffic rules applicable to electric mobility devices, such as electric scooters, which are classified as "specified small motorized bicycles" and do not require a driver's license to operate. The scheduled agenda includes registration, an explanation of traffic rules by the Tarumi Police Station, instructions on riding an electric kick scooter by Luup Co., Ltd., and a test drive. Helmets will be provided, and participants are advised to wear suitable clothing and stable footwear. Individuals under the age of 16 are not eligible to participate in the test drive. There is no prior registration required to participate, and attendance is free. The decision to cancel the event due to inclement weather will be made based on forecasts the day before, with a cutoff time of 1:00 PM on September 27 for determining if the event will proceed. The event is organized by Kobe City, the Hyogo Prefectural Police Tarumi Police Station, and Luup Co., Ltd., with cooperation from UR Urban Development Corporation. The initiative aims to enhance housing complex living in the Kariguchidai/Akashi Maiko area by integrating railways with shared mobility options. Additionally, young families moving into City Heights Kariguchi will receive a LUUP coupon and a JR West commuter pass to promote the use of shared mobility and to enjoy the natural surroundings. For inquiries regarding traffic rules for small motorized bicycles, participants can contact the Hyogo Prefectural Police Tarumi Police Station Traffic Division. For information about the LUUP service, Luup Co., Ltd. can be reached via email. #MotiveAsia #Japan https://lnkd.in/gsUYiQ8D

Sharp unveils prototype EV as "living room expansion" theme Sharp unveiled its electric vehicle prototype model "LDK+" on the morning of the 17th in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo. The announcement took place during Sharp's technology exhibition "Tech-Day," where the prototype was presented to the press. The "LDK+" is designed around the theme of "an extended living room space," featuring a large monitor and rotating seats. It is important to note that the prototype does not have a motor and serves primarily to express Sharp's concept. The development was a collaborative effort involving Sharp's parent company, Hon Hai Precision Industry, and Followly based in Kyoto, which specializes in EV-related businesses. The chassis of the vehicle, the structural foundation of the EV, is manufactured by Hon Hai. Sharp intends to start marketing the "LDK+" within a few years. The technology exhibition is being held at the Tokyo International Forum in Chiyoda Ward and runs until the 18th. Admission to this event is free; however, attendees must register in advance through a special website. #MotiveAsia #Japan https://lnkd.in/gbSfdiuT

More than 100 brands competed at Wuhan International Auto Show, and new energy vehicles became the dazzling "stars" On September 14, the 24th Wuhan International Auto Show opened at the Wuhan International Expo Center. This event showcased an exhibition area of 140,000 square meters featuring over 100 participating brands and more than 1,000 automobile models. Attendees experienced a theme centered around "a new world of intelligence and a new life of driving fun," attracting both local residents and car enthusiasts from across the country. The event was organized by several key organizations, including the China Machinery Industry Federation and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Automotive Industry Branch. Co-organizers included the Wuhan Branch of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, Wuhan New Town International Expo Center Co., Ltd., Wuhan Cultural Tourism Group Co., Ltd., Global Sunac Exhibition & Culture Tourism Group Co., Ltd., Hannover Milano Fairs (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., and the Hubei Machinery Industry Federation. New energy vehicles stood out as the "stars" of the exhibition, with significant model debuts including Dongfeng Fengshen L7 and Dongfeng Yipai e007, among others. Notable brands such as Yangwang, Lantu, Wenjie, and Avita also made prominent appearances. Additionally, companies like Hongmeng Zhixing, Jifox, Weilai, and Ideal showcased their extensive lineups. BYD presented its intelligent blocks, focusing on creating a multi-faceted intelligent car scene that encompassed intelligent cockpits, intelligent driving, and vehicle intelligence. Visitors like Ms. Wang expressed satisfaction with the event, highlighting their search for new energy vehicles for personal use. Ms. Wang and her family test-drove models from Dongfeng and Geely, acknowledging the attractiveness of government subsidies for consumers in the rapidly developing new energy vehicle industry. The exhibition featured numerous activities, including immersive experiences and collaborations with popular brands. A co-branded customized version of Dongfeng Honda's new electrification brand, Lingxi L with Pop Mart, became a popular attraction. Additionally, the event included various immersive experiences, such as the Tyrant Drift Carnival Donut Competition, the Lejia Gymkhana "I am a Driver" Challenge, the Wuhan Car Festival and Trendy Modification Festival, and the Lejia Auto Sports Meeting Car Stunt Show, allowing attendees to engage closely with their preferred models. The Wuhan International Auto Show caters to both car enthusiasts and newcomers alike, offering diverse ways to explore the future of travel. The exhibition will continue until September 19, promising more exciting automotive experiences and emphasizing its commitment to the ongoing growth and innovation within the automobile industry. #MotiveAsia #China https://lnkd.in/gWBzMFmg

Recharging electric vehicles and drivers… A visit to BMW’s ‘Charging Hub Lounge’ On December 12, BMW Group Korea officially launched the 'BMW Charging Hub Lounge' in Hoehyeon-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, addressing the inconvenience of charging electric vehicles (EVs) for drivers in a hurry. The innovative space serves as both a hotel lounge and an electric vehicle charging station, marking it as the first of its kind globally. It provides amenities such as a café, an exhibition area for BMW's luxury and limited edition models, and other vehicles not typically displayed in conventional exhibition spaces. Equipped with six 200kW rapid chargers developed by LG Electronics, the lounge facilitates quick charging, with the i5 model reaching 80% charge in under 30 minutes. Plans are underway to install a 350kW ultra-fast charger as well. The 'Plug and Charge' service, a first in the imported car industry, allows for user authentication and payment immediately upon connecting the cable, enhancing convenience for users. A display on the charger indicates real-time charging status, enabling users to monitor progress from within the lounge. The operation of the BMW Charging Hub Lounge is a collaboration with GS Group and is situated in the newly built Energy Plus Seoul building at the former GS Caltex gas station site. Managed by Parnas Hotel and charged by GS Chargebee, the facility emphasizes safety with multiple fire prevention measures, including thermal imaging CCTV, sprinklers, and specialized firefighting equipment for lithium-ion batteries. Future enhancements will include a cooling fire extinguishing device tailored to the characteristics of electric vehicle batteries. Open weekdays from 10am to 7pm, the charging station is accessible year-round. BMW Group Korea aims to expand its charging infrastructure, having installed 1,600 chargers nationwide as of this month and targeting a total of 2,100 by the year's end. Han Dong-ryul, Head of Public Relations, highlighted the company's commitment to enhancing user experiences and building a robust charging network for all electric vehicle drivers. #MotiveAsia #SouthKorea https://lnkd.in/giURTeTW

Outside Audi's Brussels factory, referred to as the "cradle" of its electric drive, approximately 200 workers are striking amid concerns of possible plant closure. This situation reflects broader challenges facing Europe's electric vehicle (EV) sector, attributed to low demand and increased competition from Chinese manufacturers. Audi’s parent company, Volkswagen, recently announced it might close production sites in Germany, affecting thousands of jobs. As a result, Brussels workers have launched an extended strike, with planned demonstrations in the capital, while some workers have taken to sleeping in tents outside the facility. The Brussels factory transitioned to EV production in 2018 after decades of manufacturing combustion engine vehicles. Workers express frustration over the company's strategy, with some claiming Audi’s attempts at innovation have failed, leaving them facing uncertain job futures. Meanwhile, Europe is struggling to meet its EV production goals, with new registrations declining six percent compared to last year as subsidies phase out and demand softens, stirring fears within the industry. Analysts suggest that the potential closure of the Belgian factory is a reaction to challenges European automakers face. The market has been saturated with cheaper Chinese vehicles, while European consumers remain hesitant to embrace EVs due to their higher upfront costs and depreciation rates. Audi cited reduced demand for the Q8 e-tron, along with high production and logistics costs, in its announcement about the factory’s uncertain future. Discussions are ongoing at the EU level regarding imposing import duties on Chinese EVs to protect local manufacturers, following an anti-subsidy investigation. However, opposition exists from certain countries concerned about harming trade relations with China. A report from former ECB chief Mario Draghi suggests that while the proposed tariffs may help, a comprehensive "industrial action plan" is essential to enhance the productivity and competitiveness of European manufacturers. The European Commission’s chief, Ursula von der Leyen, has committed to a new "Clean Industrial Deal" aimed at boosting investments in infrastructure and industry. Yet, with the Audi plant’s future in jeopardy, workers express their deep-seated anxiety and feelings of abandonment. Belgian unions have called for national strike actions in response to the looming layoffs, emphasizing the lack of transparency from Audi regarding its plans and the workers’ sense of uncertainty about their future. #MotiveAsia #Japan https://lnkd.in/gmFwjhUR

With advancements in battery technology and supportive policies for electric vehicles, businesses in Vietnam are increasingly interested in importing and distributing used electric cars. To operate legally and sustainably, these enterprises must adhere to specific licensing requirements mandated by Vietnamese law. To import used electric cars, companies must obtain a License for automobile import (LAI). Key conditions for obtaining this license include having an automobile warranty and maintenance facility, which can be owned or leased, and a written confirmation that the enterprise is authorized to represent a foreign automobile manufacturer for importing vehicles. Applying for the LAI requires submitting documents such as an application form, the enterprise registration certificate, proof of warranty and maintenance facilities, and confirmation of representation from a foreign automobile manufacturer. Additionally, enterprises must acquire a Certificate of automobile warranty and maintenance facilities (CAWMF), which has its own set of conditions. These include ensuring that the facility has legitimate land use rights, appropriate diagnostic equipment, compliance with national standards, and commitments to provide technical support from manufacturers. The application process for the CAWMF involves submitting standard forms along with evidence that the facility meets all required conditions. Regarding distribution, a business license is typically necessary for various goods; however, used electric cars are not included in this list, meaning no business license is required for their wholesale distribution. Thus, enterprises wanting to trade in used electric cars need only the LAI and CAWMF, with no business license necessary for wholesale transactions. #MotiveAsia #Vietnam https://lnkd.in/g6DpiYWn