Eisai Presents Data on Benefits of Long-Term Administration of Dual-Acting Lecanemab at the 17th Clinical Trials for Alzheimer’s Disease (CTAD) Conference JCN Newswire

Eisai Presents Data on Benefits of Long-Term Administration of Dual-Acting Lecanemab at the 17th Clinical Trials for Alzheimer’s Disease (CTAD) Conference

TOKYO and CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct 31, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. and Biogen Inc. announced today that the latest findings for lecanemab-irmb (U.S. brand name: LEQEMBI®), an anti-amyloid beta (Aβ) protofibril* antibody for the treatment of early Alzheimer’s disease (AD), were presented at the Clinical Trials for Alzheimer's Disease Conference (CTAD), held in Madrid, Spain, and virtually.Benefits of Continued Treatment with Lecanemab for People with Early ADIn July 2024 at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC) 2024, results from the open-label long-term extension study (OLE) following the core study of the lecanemab Phase 3 Clarity AD study were presented, showing that the mean change from baseline in CDR-SB (global cognitive and functional scale) in the lecanemab treated group relative to the placebo group was -0.45 at 18 months, and at 36 months, this expanded to -0.95 compared to a prespecified natural history** cohort of AD. There was a 30% reduction in the relative risk of progressing to the next disease stage In addition, the tau PET substudy of the lecanemab Phase 3 Clarity AD clinical study showed that with three (3) years of continuous treatment with lecanemab, 59% of patients with no or low tau accumulation in the brain (no tau/low tau) at baseline showed improvement or no decline, and 51% showed improvement from baseline on the Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB) global cognitive and functional scale.1Clarity AD data presented at CTAD expand on these initial results to include additional measurements resulting from three (3) years of continuous lecanemab treatment in patients with low levels of amyloid accumulation in the brain at baseline (less than 60 Centiloids: low amyloid). These data show that 46% of patients improved or had no decline, and 33% showed improvement from baseline on the CDR-SB. On the ADAS-Cog14 measurement scale, 46% of patients showed improvement or no decline and 43% showed improvement. On the ADCS MCI-ADL, 51% of patients showed improvement or no decline and 48% showed improvement. These results – from no tau/low tau population and low amyloid populations – suggest that earlier initiation of lecanemab treatment may have a positive impact on disease progression of early AD patients and may provide continued benefits to patients with early AD over the long term.2No new safety findings were observed with continued lecanemab treatment over three (3) years. Most amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) occurred in the first six (6) months of treatment. After the first six (6) months, ARIA rates were low and similar to ARIA rates on placebo during the placebo- controlled period. With regards to the incidence of ARIA by ApoEε4 status during the continuous treatment, the incidence was higher in ApoE4 homozygotes than in heterozygotes or non-carriers, but rates of new ARIA were decreased after the completion of the 18 months core study as treatment continued, regardless of ApoEε4 status.2Correlation between Protofibrils and Biomarkers for Neurodegenerative Disease in the AD Brain Dual-acting lecanemab is the only early AD treatment available to support neuronal function by clearing the highly toxic protofibrils that continue to cause neuronal injury and death even after plaques have been cleared from the brain. Protofibrils accumulate early in the AD brain and lead to nerve cell function loss, abnormal nerve processes, inflammation, and memory loss. In non-clinical studies, antibodies against protofibrils prevented protofibril-mediated neuronal dysfunction and memory loss.Accurately quantifying the amount of protofibrils in human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has been challenging due to their low concentration. As such, a new measurement method was developed by researchers at Eisai to accurately quantify protofibrils in CSF.Utilizing this new method of measurement, the amount of protofibrils in AD CSF correlated more strongly with neurodegenerative disease biomarkers (CSF total tau and neurogranin) than with CSF Aβ42, a biomarker associated with Aβ plaques accumulation, indicating that protofibrils are closely related to synaptic dysfunction. Furthermore, it was observed that protofibrils, unlike plaques, are diffusible. These results suggest that protofibrils induce synaptic dysfunction, playing an important role in neurodegeneration in AD brains.3Lecanemab Treatment for Early AD: Insights from Long-Term U.S. Clinical StudiesDr. Marwan Noel Sabbagh, Moreno Family Chair for Alzheimer's Research and Vice Chairman for Research and Professor, Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, presented outcomes of an analysis of the use of lecanemab treatment between January 6, 2023, and July 30, 2024, based on payment claims data from the Komodo Research Database, a medical database in the U.S. In the U.S., lecanemab is used in accordance with the US FDA-approved indication, dosing, and monitoring guidelines. The analysis found that access to lecanemab treatment is expanding and highlighted opportunities to improve access in rural areas and educational outreach for underserved populations.4Dr. David Watson of the Alzheimer's Research and Treatment Center reported on patients who continued to receive lecanemab treatment following the Phase II Study 201 and Phase III Clarity AD study. A total of 136 patients participated in both studies at this center, and 66 patients chose to continue lecanemab therapy, with 13 patients receiving treatment for more than five (5) years and 40 patients receiving treatment for more than three (3) years. More than half of the patients (15/24) who continued treatment with lecanemab for more than three (3) years after the core phase remained in their initial stage of disease. Further, in a survey of 11 patients (or their caregivers) who received lecanemab treatment for more than five (5) years, all patients responded that they were “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with lecanemab treatment. In addition, between 45% and 73% of patients responded that lecanemab treatment made them feel more positive about their daily life, social activities, memory, etc. "frequently" or "very often."5No new long-term safety findings were observed in these multi-year studies.5Progress in the AHEAD 3-45 Study: Improving Screening Eligibility Using Blood Biomarkers and Completing Patient EnrollmentAHEAD 3-45 is a Phase 3 clinical study for individuals with preclinical AD, meaning they are clinically unimpaired but have intermediate or elevated levels of amyloid in their brains. In the study, blood tests, cognitive function tests (PACC-5***), amyloid PET, MRI, and tau PET were used for screening. Based on the amount of Aβ accumulation in the brain as determined by amyloid PET, subjects were assigned to two (2) trials with different dose settings: the A3 trial, for those with borderline Aβ levels in the brain, and the A45 trial, for those with positive Aβ levels in the brain.6Screening with blood biomarker tests was important to improve eligibility for amyloid PET testing in subjects without cognitive impairment. Using plasma Aβ42/40 ratio and p-tau217/tau217 ratio in theinitial screening reduced screening failure on amyloid PET from more than 70% to less than 30%. In particular, plasma p-tau217 was shown to correlate with amyloid PET, supporting its role as a useful blood biomarker to identify elevated amyloid in the brain.6Enrollment for the AHEAD 3-45 study was completed in October 2024.Lifetime Achievement Award Presented to Professor LannfeltProfessor Emeritus Lars Lannfelt of Uppsala University received the CTAD Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his pioneering work in scientific discovery and drug development in AD. As part of this award ceremony, he delivered a keynote speech outlining the discovery of the arctic mutation in familial AD, its application to therapeutic strategies targeting protofibrils for AD treatment, and the development of lecanemab.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.*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 through multiple mechanisms, not only increasing the development of insoluble Aβ plaques but also increasing direct damage to brain cell membranes and the connections that transmit signals between nerve cells or nerve cells and other cells. It is believed the reduction of protofibrils may prevent the progression of AD by reducing damage to neurons in the brain and cognitive dysfunction.8**ADNI is a clinical research project launched in 2005 to develop methods to predict the onset of AD and to confirm the effectiveness of treatments. The ADNI observational cohort was pre-specified and used during the design of Clarity AD. The cohort represents the exact population of those in Clarity AD study; matched ADNI participants show similar degree of decline to placebo group out to 18 months.***PACC-5 is a composite measure that provides a highly sensitive measure of changes in cognitive function in individuals with preclinical AD.About lecanemab (LEQEMBI®)Lecanemab is the result of a strategic research alliance between Eisai and BioArctic. It is a humanized immunoglobulin gamma 1 (IgG1) monoclonal antibody directed against aggregated soluble (protofibril) and insoluble forms of amyloid-beta (Aβ). Lecanemab is approved in the U.S., Japan, China, South Korea, Hong Kong, Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Great Britain. Eisai has also submitted applications for approval of lecanemab in 10 countries and regions, including the European Union (EU).LEQEMBI’s approvals in these countries were based on Phase 3 data from Eisai’s, global Clarity AD clinical trial, in which it met its primary endpoint and all key secondary endpoints with statistically significant results. The primary endpoint was the global cognitive and functional scale, Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB). In the Clarity AD clinical trial, treatment with lecanemab reduced clinical decline on CDR-SB by 27% at 18 months compared to placebo.9,10 The mean CDR- SB score at baseline was approximately 3.2 in both groups. The adjusted least-squares mean change from baseline at 18 months was 1.21 with lecanemab and 1.66 with placebo (difference, −0.45; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.67 to −0.23; P
More
Eisai Presents Latest Clinical Findings Suggesting Inhibition of Tau Propagation by Anti-MTBR Tau Antibody E2814 at the 17th Clinical Trials on Alzheimer’s Disease Conference (CTAD) JCN Newswire

Eisai Presents Latest Clinical Findings Suggesting Inhibition of Tau Propagation by Anti-MTBR Tau Antibody E2814 at the 17th Clinical Trials on Alzheimer’s Disease Conference (CTAD)

TOKYO, Oct 31, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Eisai Co. Ltd announced today that the latest findings on anti-MTBR (microtubule binding region) tau antibody E2814 were presented at the 17th annual Clinical Trials on Alzheimer’s Disease (CTAD) conference, held in Madrid, Spain, and virtually. Eisai also announced initiation of a Phase II study (Study 202) on E2814 for sporadic early Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).Impact of the anti-MTBR tau antibody E2814 on tau pathology biomarkers in Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer’s Disease (DIAD)E2814 is an investigational anti-MTBR tau antibody designed to target the MTBR of tau. In AD patients, neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) are a pathological hallmark, and they are believed to spread through synaptically connected pathways in the brain, forming the tau propagation hypothesis. It is thought that tau propagation is drivenby the specific tau species containing MTBR, tau seeds that spread tau pathology to different brain regions important for cognition and function.Eisai conducted a Phase I/II clinical study (Study 103, NCT04971733; 7 participants) of the anti-MTBR tau antibody E2814 in patients with Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer’s Disease (DIAD) beginning in June 2021. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and tolerability of E2814 in DIAD patients, with a primary objective of assessing the target engagement of E2814 with MTBR-tau species in their cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). In addition, pharmacodynamicevaluation was performed using multiple biomarkers related to AD tau pathology. In the study, DIAD patients withclinical symptoms were administered E2814 for 12 to 24 months. Data from the Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network Observational Study (DIAN-obs), an observational cohort of DIAD, were used as references to evaluate biomarkers changes in E2814 treatment.Compared to the reference data from DIAN-obs, patients who received E2814 showed approximately 75% and 50% reductions of CSF MTBR-tau243 and p-tau217, respectively, reflecting tau pathophysiology. Additionally, braintau accumulation observed by tau PET was stabilized or trended toward decrease in DIAD subjects administered E2814. These results suggest that E2814 inhibited tau propagation and suppressed the accumulation of tau aggregates in brains of people living with DIAD. This will be further investigated in the ongoing Phase II/III Tau NexGen study (NCT05269394) with DIAD patients and the Phase II 202 study (NCT06602258) with sporadic early Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients.Initiation of Phase II clinical study (Study 202)In September 2024, Eisai initiated a Phase II clinical study (Study 202) for individuals with early AD in the United States. The study is also scheduled to be conducted in Japan in the future. This study is a placebo- controlled,double-blind, parallel-group, dose exploration study, evaluating the safety, tolerability, and biomarker efficacy of E2814 in people living with early AD receiving lecanemab as a backbone anti-Aβ therapy.Eisai positions neurology as a key therapeutic area, and it will continue to create innovation in the development of novel medicines based on cutting-edge neurology research as it seeks to contribute further to improving the benefits of affected individuals and their families in diseases with high unmet needs, such as dementia including AD.This release discusses investigational uses of agents in development and is not intended to convey conclusionsabout efficacy or safety. There is no guarantee that such investigational agents will successfully complete clinical development or gain health authority approval.About E2814An investigational anti-microtubule binding region (MTBR) tau antibody, E2814 is being developed as a disease- modifying agent for tauopathies including sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Phase I clinical studies are underway. E2814 was discovered as part of the research collaboration between Eisai and University College London. E2814 is designed to prevent the spreading of tau seeds within the brains of affected individuals. In addition, E2814 has been selected as an anti-tautherapy in a Phase II/III Tau NexGen study for the treatment of DIAD, conducted by DIAN-TU led by Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is underway.Biomarkers related to AD tau pathologyAs fluid biomarkers related to AD tau pathology, tau containing the residue 243 (MTBR-tau243) and tau phosphorylated at theresidue 217 (p-tau217) in CSF have been reported.1 In addition, positron emission tomography (tau PET), which specifically detects tau aggregates, is used as an imaging biomarker. These biomarkers are included in the Revised criteria for diagnosis and staging of Alzheimer's disease published by the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer's Association (NIA-AA) in June 2024.2(1) Horie K, et al. CSF MTBR-tau243 is a specific biomarker of tau tangle pathology in Alzheimer's disease. Nat Med. 2023. 29. 1954-1963(2) Jack Jr. CR, et al. Revised criteria for diagnosis and staging of Alzheimer's disease: Alzheimer's Association Workgroup. Alzheimers Dement. 2024. 20. 5143-5169For further information: Media Inquiries:Eisai Co., Ltd.Public Relations Department TEL: +81 (0)3-3817-5120Eisai Inc. (U.S.) Libby Holman+1-201-753-1945Libby_Holman@Eisai.comEisai Europe, Ltd. (UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Russia) EMEA Communications Department+44 (0) 786 601 1272EMEA-comms@eisai.net Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
Mazda Production and Sales Results for September 2024 and for April through September 2024 JCN Newswire

Mazda Production and Sales Results for September 2024 and for April through September 2024

TOKYO, Oct 30, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mazda Motor Corporation's production and sales results for September 2024 and for April through September 2024 are summarized below.I. Production BreakdownSeptember 2024Apr - Sep 2024Jan - Sep 2024UnitsYoYChange (%)UnitsYoYChange (%)UnitsYoYChange (%)DOMESTIC PRODUCTIONPassenger Vehicles65,047-18.8375,643-5.9558,969-10.2Total65,047-18.8375,643-5.9558,969-10.2 OVERSEAS PRODUCTIONPassenger Vehicles39,244+0.4226,952+17.1335,277+13.1Total39,244+0.4226,952+17.1335,277+13.1 GLOBAL PRODUCTIONPassenger Vehicles104,291-12.5602,595+1.6894,246-2.7Total104,291-12.5602,595+1.6894,246-2.71. Domestic Production(1) September 2024Mazda's domestic production volume in September 2024 decreased 18.8% year on year due to decreased production of passenger vehicles.[Domestic production of key models in September 2024]CX-5:21,133 units(down 40.8% year on year)MAZDA3:10,704 units(up 25.0%)CX-90:7,296 units(down 14.9%)(2) April through September 2024Mazda's domestic production volume in the period from April through September 2024 decreased 5.9% year on year due to decreased production of passenger vehicles.[Domestic production of key models in the period from April through September 2024]CX-5:141,007 units(down 19.8% year on year)MAZDA3:53,009 units(up 6.7%)CX-90:50,331 units(up 42.0%)2. Overseas Production(1) September 2024Mazda's overseas production volume in September 2024 increased 0.4% year on year due to increased production of passenger vehicles.[Overseas production of key models in September 2024]CX-30:11,527 units(down 2.6% year on year)CX-50:9,985 units(up 21.9%)MAZDA3:5,276 units(down 55.5%)(2) April through September 2024Mazda's overseas production volume in the period from April through September 2024 increased 17.1% year on year due to increased production of passenger vehicles.[Overseas production of key models in the period from April through September 2024]CX-30:64,436 units(up 0.2% year on year)CX-50:58,866 units(up 50.1%)MAZDA3:32,646 units(down 21.8%)II. Domestic Sales BreakdownSeptember 2024Apr - Sep 2024Jan - Sep 2024UnitsYoYChange (%)UnitsYoYChange (%)UnitsYoYChange (%)DOMESTIC SALESPassenger Vehicles12,617+14.059,304-21.995,947-26.1Commercial Vehicles923-7.34,850-17.97,674-17.4 Registration Total9,973+14.546,586-27.074,689-33.0Micro-mini Total3,567+6.517,568-2.828,932+4.9Total13,540+12.364,154-21.6103,621-25.5(1) September 2024Mazda's domestic sales volume in September 2024 increased 12.3% year on year due to increased sales of passenger vehicles.Mazda's registered vehicle market share was 3.6% (up 0.4 points year on year), with a 2.2% share of the micro-mini segment (up 0.2 points) and a 3.1% total market share (up 0.3 points).[Domestic sales of key models in September 2024]MAZDA2:2,354 units(up 53.3% year on year)CX-5:2,252 units(up 51.1%)CX-30:1,467 units(up 264.9%)(2) April through September 2024Mazda's domestic sales volume in the period from April through September 2024 decreased 21.6% year on year due to decreased sales of passenger and commercial vehicles.Mazda's registered vehicle market share was 3.3% (down 1.2 points year on year), with a 2.3% share of the micro-mini segment (unchanged year on year) and a 3.0% total market share (down 0.7 points).[Domestic sales of key models in the period from April through September 2024]MAZDA2:12,031 units(up 22.8% year on year)CX-5:9,619 units(down 21.4%)CX-30:6,702 units(down 4.3%)III. Exports BreakdownSeptember 2024Apr - Sep 2024Jan - Sep 2024UnitsYoYChange (%)UnitsYoYChange (%)UnitsYoYChange (%)EXPORTSPassenger Vehicles54,988-15.4334,553-2.1487,949-6.5 North America21,985-6.9151,152+13.0210,401+0.1Europe9,926-38.758,950-36.5107,451-19.2Oceania6,296-3.234,462-3.947,417-7.5Others16,781-10.489,989+13.8122,680-3.9Total54,988-15.4334,553-2.1487,949-6.5(1) September 2024Mazda's export volume in September 2024 decreased 15.4% year on year due to decreased shipments to Europe, North America, Oceania, and other regions.[Exports of key models in September 2024]CX-5:19,047 units(down 38.0% year on year)MAZDA3:9,720 units(up 48.1%)CX-90:8,306 units(up 13.1%)(2) April through September 2024Mazda's export volume in the period from April through September 2024 decreased 2.1% year on year due to decreased shipments to Europe, and Oceania.[Exports of key models in the period from April through September 2024]CX-5:135,974 units(down 16.7% year on year)CX-90:50,103 units(up 45.8%)MAZDA3:49,165 units(up 13.8%)IV. Global Sales BreakdownSeptember 2024Apr - Sep 2024Jan - Sep 2024UnitsYoY Change (%)UnitsYoY Change (%)UnitsYoY Change (%)GLOBAL SALESDomestic Sales13,540+12.364,154-21.6103,621-25.5 U.S.A29,840+6.5213,345+15.8313,449+15.0 China6,425-33.134,424-23.958,139+1.5 Europe17,158-15.288,591-1.3134,540-5.2 Others40,324+8.6229,513+6.6331,359+3.4Overseas Sales93,747-1.3565,873+5.8837,487+5.7Total107,287+0.2630,027+2.2941,108+1.0(1) September 2024Mazda's global sales volume in September 2024 increased 0.2% year on year due to increased sales in the U.S., Japan, and other regions.[Global sales of key models in September 2024]CX-5:29,373 units(up 7.2% year on year)CX-30:18,362 units(down 2.1%)MAZDA3:12,395 units(down 34.1%)(2) April through September 2024Mazda's global sales volume in the period from April through September 2024 increased 2.2% year on year due to increased sales in the U.S., and other regions.[Global sales of key models in the period from April through September 2024]CX-5:176,597 units(up 1.3% year on year)CX-30:113,133 units(up 13.3%)MAZDA3:80,824 units(down 9.7%)(1) Overseas production figures indicate Mazda-brand units coming off the production line (excluding CKD units).(2) Global production figures are the sum total of domestic and overseas production volumes.(3) All information in this press release is as of the date of the publicity. No updates after that date are reflected. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
Suzuki and Toyota to Deepen Collaboration in the Field of Electrified Vehicles JCN Newswire

Suzuki and Toyota to Deepen Collaboration in the Field of Electrified Vehicles

Toyota City, Japan, Oct 30, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Suzuki Motor Corporation (Suzuki) and Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) have decided to further strengthen collaboration in the supply of a battery EV (BEV) SUV model developed by Suzuki to Toyota. This new model is scheduled to be manufactured at Suzuki Motor Gujarat in India from the spring of 2025.Both Suzuki and Toyota's businesses have their roots in Enshu―the western part of Shizuoka Prefecture―and both companies took on the challenge of switching their businesses from looms to automobiles. Since Suzuki's Chairman (current Senior Advisor) Osamu Suzuki and Toyota's President (current Chairman) Akio Toyoda started exploring business partnerships in 2016, both companies have engaged in a wide-ranging collaboration, aiming to provide people with freedom of movement and fun-to-drive. The fields of collaboration are diverse and include production and mutual supply of vehicles, and the spread of electrified vehicles. As a result, the market launch of collaboration vehicles has expanded to Japan, India, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.This new development marks the first BEV in the OEM relationship between the two companies. It will be launched worldwide, providing a BEV choice even in the SUV market, which is showing remarkable growth. With this new addition, Suzuki and Toyota will further promote their respective initiatives toward realizing a carbon-neutral society.The new model was designed exclusively as a BEV. A nimble SUV with the sharp driving characteristics of a BEV, it features ample cruising range and a comfortable cabin. It is also available with a 4WD system, offering exceptional drivability on rough roads and a more powerful driving performance.The BEV unit and platform adopted for this model were jointly developed by Suzuki, Toyota, and Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd., utilizing each company's strength.Comment from Suzuki President Toshihiro Suzuki"Suzuki will supply our first BEV to Toyota globally. I am grateful that the collaboration between the two companies has further deepened in this way. While continuing to be competitors, we will deepen our collaborations toward solving social issues, including the realization of a carbon-neutral society through a multi-pathway approach."Comment from Toyota President Koji Sato"By leveraging the BEV unit and platform that we jointly developed, we will take a new step in our collaboration in the field of electrified vehicles. This will allow us to deliver various choices that contribute to a carbon-neutral society to customers worldwide. We would like to learn from each other's strengths, compete, and further joint efforts based on a multi-pathway approach."About Toyota Motor CorporationToyota Motor Corporation works to develop and manufacture innovative, safe and high-quality products and services that create happiness by providing mobility for all. We believe that true achievement comes from supporting our customers, partners, employees, and the communities in which we operate. Since our founding over 80 years ago in 1937, we have applied our Guiding Principles in pursuit of a safer, greener and more inclusive society. Today, as we transform into a mobility company developing connected, automated, shared and electrified technologies, we also remain true to our Guiding Principles and many of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals to help realize an ever-better world, where everyone is free to move.SDGs Initiatives: https://global.toyota/en/sustainability/sdgs/ Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
Fujitsu and Morinaga Milk Industry jointly develop a simulation system for raw material price fluctuations, speeding up decision-making JCN Newswire

Fujitsu and Morinaga Milk Industry jointly develop a simulation system for raw material price fluctuations, speeding up decision-making

KAWASAKI, Japan, Oct 30, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu and Morinaga Milk Industry Co., Ltd. have jointly developed a system that simulates the impact of raw material price and exchange rate fluctuations on management initiatives and business profits. This system utilizes the Fujitsu Manufacturing Supply Chain Planning offering (1) and is currently in use by Morinaga Milk Industry.Morinaga Milk Industry previously carried out manual data collection among its 23 domestic factories and hundreds of suppliers. This system streamlines the process, enabling early visualization of the impact of raw material price fluctuations, thus contributing to faster decision-making. A two-month trial run with Morinaga Milk Industry carried out previously confirmed improvements in work efficiency and standardization.Fujitsu will continue to support Morinaga Milk Industry's efforts to foster a corporate culture of taking on challenges and contribute to the healthy and happy lives of its customers, viewing this transformation as the essence of Digital Transformation (DX) promotion.OverviewFujitsu Manufacturing Supply Chain Planning is an advanced planning and simulation platform that leverages Fujitsu's deep understanding of industry-specific processes, data, algorithms, business practices, and system architecture cultivated over 30 years.The system provided to Morinaga Milk Industry significantly reduces the time required to grasp and analyze the impact of raw material price fluctuations on profits, enhancing responsiveness to change. Its diverse simulation capabilities will support a shift toward advanced operations, i.e., sales and procurement planning that is adaptable to future expansion, and contribute to cost optimization.Figure 1: Diagram of system provided to Morinaga Milk IndustryFuture PlansWith the launch of integrated budget-sales-supply and demand planning templates on October 1, 2024, Fujitsu plans to expand its offerings to manufacturers who want to be able to respond rapidly to demand fluctuations and inventory optimization.[1]Fujitsu Manufacturing Supply Chain Planning :An offering that realizes a robust and efficient supply chain by supporting rapid decision-making from management to the field and throughout the supply chain through integrated planning that considers supply chain risks. It combines Fujitsu's in-house developed manufacturing scheduler and risk management with Fujitsu's unique templates built on the "Anaplan" platform, the scenario planning and analysis platform designed to optimize decision-making.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 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
DOCOMO to Participate in Virtual Expo at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan JCN Newswire

DOCOMO to Participate in Virtual Expo at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan

TOKYO, Oct 30, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NTT DOCOMO, INC. announced today that it will exhibit an ultra-modern virtual city called “Future Youth City” in the Virtual Expo—Yumeshima Islands in the Sky, the virtual site of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan (“the Expo”), which is planned to be held in Osaka, Japan for six months from April 2025.Future Youth City presents model futuristic city, based on the concept of “Mirai no machi” (City of the future), which represents a collective vision for the future, demonstrating what it might look like when everyone's dreams become reality. It showcases a future with enhanced and innovative communication methods, by combining ideas of forward-thinking students and DOCOMO's cutting-edge technology, FEEL TECH®,*1 This innovation utilizes Human Augmentation Platform® to share human motions and senses as information personalized for the receiver.The virtual space will feature 3 areas. Mirai (future) Street, the main street of Future Youth City lined with futuristic entertainment and dining experiences, and Mirai House, a co-living space that will use advanced technology to meet diverse residential needs. Both will showcase a world where people can enjoy the new way of communication, shaped by dreams and ideas, on the metaverse supported by FEEL TECH.Visitors to the virtual space will be able to observe non-player character (NPC) residents of the metaverse experiencing the future as they interact with each other, including through realistic conversations. Additionally, the “docomo Technology Lab” (tentative name) on Mirai Street plans to showcase DOCOMO's latest achievements in sensory sharing with FEEL TECH.The virtual space will also feature Future Gallery, which will exhibit children's artistic depictions of a prosperous future based on the theme of “Our Future Lives.” The exhibits will feature a variety of children's creations that envision different futures, including award-winning pieces with a special connection to the Expo, presented by the docomo Future Museum,*2 which has been hosting children's art competitions since 2002 and now in its 23rdyear.By participating in the Expo, DOCOMO aims to bring the “Mirai no machi” concept to life, transforming futuristic ideas and dreams into reality.What is Virtual Expo Yumeshima Islands in the Sky?Virtual Expo —Yumeshima Islands in the Sky is the virtual site of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of the Expo as avatars, navigating pavilions and event facilities that are reproductions of actual buildings, while enjoying unique exhibitions and events developed by each exhibitor–experiences that are only possible in the virtual world. Look forward to a six-month journey where you will travel with people from all over the world and explore a future society for our lives. Additionally, the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition will provide a downloadable Virtual Expo app. For compatible devices and detailed instructions, please visit the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition website at www.expo2025.or.jp/en/future-index/virtual/virtual-site/Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation, DOCOMO's parent company, is a sponsor of the Virtual Expo as part of the Future Society Showcase project.https://group.ntt/en/expo2025/NTT DOCOMO Group Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan Websitehttps://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/corporate/about/expo2025/(1) FEEL TECH is one of DOCOMO's technologies for the 6G era, that utilizes Human Augmentation Platform to share human motions and senses as information personalized for the receiver. (2) https://docomo-mirai.tda.docomo.ne.jp/museum/ (Only available in Japanese)FEEL TECH and Human Augmentation Platform are registered trademarks of NTT DOCOMO in Japan.About NTT DOCOMONTT DOCOMO, Japan's leading mobile operator with over 89 million subscriptions, is one of the world's foremost contributors to 3G, 4G and 5G mobile network technologies. Beyond core communications services, DOCOMO is challenging new frontiers in collaboration with a growing number of entities ("+d" partners), creating exciting and convenient value-added services that change the way people live and work. Under a medium-term plan toward 2020 and beyond, DOCOMO is pioneering a leading-edge 5G network to facilitate innovative services that will amaze and inspire customers beyond their expectations.https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/ Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
ULVAC Launches Technology Center PYEONGTAEK for Next-Gen Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment in South Korea JCN Newswire

ULVAC Launches Technology Center PYEONGTAEK for Next-Gen Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment in South Korea

CHIGASAKI, JP / PYEONGTAEK, KR, Oct 30, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - ULVAC, Inc., the world’s leading comprehensive vacuum manufacturer, has established Technology Center PYEONGTAEK in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.The Center aims to advance the development of next-generation semiconductor manufacturing equipment and processes in collaboration with customers in South Korea, while also establishing mass production technologies. The Center commenced operations in August 2024[1] and held an opening ceremony on October 24.As the technical complexity in semiconductor manufacturing equipment is rapidly increasing, close joint development with leading semiconductor manufacturers is essential to provide competitive products to the market. Technology Center PYEONGTAEK will leverage the ULVAC Group’s extensive human resources and expertise to promptly deliver high-quality manufacturing equipment that meets customer needs while also enhancing technical support.ULVAC positions the Center as a 'Field of Potentiality'[2] for the future by fostering innovation. By promoting co-creation with customers, we strive to fulfil our corporate mission of 'contributing to the advancement of industry and science through the comprehensive utilization of vacuum technology and its surrounding technologies.'Opening CeremonyThe opening ceremony, held on October 24, was attended by partner companies, Gyeonggi-do officials, and ULVAC representatives. President & CEO Setsuo Iwashita expressed his gratitude for the efforts of all involved and stated, "We aim to respond swiftly and accurately to our customers' needs and grow together."President & CEO of ULVAC, Setsuo Iwashita, giving a speech at the opening ceremony.In his congratulatory speech, 1st Vice Governor for Administrative Affairs of Gyeonggi-do, Kim Seong-joong, remarked, "The establishment of this Center was made possible thanks to the long-standing trust and cooperation between Gyeonggi-do and ULVAC. I hope that many talented individuals will come together here to create world-leading technologies. Gyeonggi-do will continue to provide full administrative support to offer a platform for outstanding talent to realize their dreams."[1] February 13, 2023 News Release: "ULVAC Announces a Construction of Technology Center PYEONGTAEK"https://ir.ulvac.co.jp/en/ir/newsrelease/auto_20230213508142/pdfFile.pdf [2] "Field of Potentiality" for the futureThe ULVAC Group has established the ideal vision for 2032, "Vision 2032," to continue being a "Field of Potentiality" for the future. The concept of "Field of Potentiality" is inspired by the physical phenomenon that occurs in a vacuum, where energy is injected into a vacuum, something new is created. The ULVAC Group is committed to advancing its core vacuum technology while understanding the needs of its customers and addressing social challenges, thereby continuously creating truly valuable technologies and products.About ULVAC, Inc. Since its founding in 1952, ULVAC, Inc. has been a comprehensive vacuum equipment manufacturer, providing manufacturing equipment, components, analytical instruments, materials, and services based on its core technology—vacuum technology. Working with customers across a wide range of industries, including semiconductors, electronic components, displays, automotive, and pharmaceuticals, ULVAC is committed to driving cutting-edge innovation and creating new value. For the fiscal year ending June 2024, the ULVAC Group recorded consolidated sales of 261.1 billion yen and has approximately 6,200 employees.For more information, please visit our official website at https://www.ulvac.co.jp/en/.For more information:ULVAC, Inc.https://www.ulvac.co.jp/en/contact/general.html Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
Fujitsu and Linius partner to unlock the power of video worldwide JCN Newswire

Fujitsu and Linius partner to unlock the power of video worldwide

Kawasaki and Sydney, Oct 29, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Businesses, governments, and organisations can now unlock the full potential of their video data thanks to a new strategic partnership between Fujitsu, a leading global digital transformation company, and Linius Technologies, a global leader in AI and data-driven video assembly.This partnership combines Fujitsu’s expertise in systems integration and advanced AI-powered video analysis with Linius’ ground-breaking, patented “virtualised video” and “data-driven video assembly” technology.The partnership delivers a suite of solutions that empower organisations to instantly search, analyse, and assemble video streams from multiple sources, creating meaningful narratives that reveal critical information and drive better decision-making.It is expected to be particularly impactful in industries including security/surveillance, airport and transportation operations, border services, police/fire services operations, site/asset inspections and maintenance, retail analysis, consumer behaviour, and more.Graeme Beardsell, Chief Executive Officer of Fujitsu Asia Pacific comments:“This partnership is a game-changer for businesses looking to leverage the power of video. By combining Linius’ innovative video platform with Fujitsu’s deep industry expertise and global reach, we are empowering organisations to unlock the true value of their video data, when combined with Fujitsu Kozuchi for Vision, Fujitsu’s AI service.”James Brennan, Chief Executive Officer of Linius Technologies comments:“This partnership is a major milestone for Linius as we look to enter new markets, including security and public sector organisations. It allows us to bring the power of Linius Video Services to a wider audience, enabling organisations across industries worldwide to benefit from the transformative capabilities of our AI and data-driven video assembly. Working with Fujitsu, a worldwide leader in digital transformation, will help us redefine the way organisations interact with video, transforming data into actionable insights and driving real-world impact.”Transforming video data into actionable insightsThis partnership addresses a critical challenge facing businesses today: the overwhelming volume of video data and the difficulty in extracting meaningful insights. By combining Fujitsu Kozuchi for Vision with Linius’ advanced video intelligence, organisations can:Analyse video to find moments of interest in seconds.Instantly compile video streams that combine relevant video segments into meaningful narratives.Dive deeper into video segments to uncover actions, objects, and people of interest to create understanding of individual situations.Search and assemble new video of interest with a click.Real-world impact across industriesThis partnership will have a significant impact on businesses, governments, and society, including:Unlocking greater value of investments in video, AI and data.Reduced time, resources, and cost.Optimised processes.Reduced response time.Increased analytic capability – make better decisions.Maintaining chain of evidence.About FujitsuFujitsu’s purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers in over 100 countries, our 124,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: Computing, Networks, AI, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.7 trillion yen (US$26 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: www.fujitsu.com.Press ContactsFujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiries Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
Toyota Motor Corporation and Hyundai Motor Company Co-host Motorsport Event to Share the Excitement of Racing JCN Newswire

Toyota Motor Corporation and Hyundai Motor Company Co-host Motorsport Event to Share the Excitement of Racing

TOKYO, Oct 28, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) and Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) jointly hosted the "Hyundai N x TOYOTA GAZOO Racing FESTIVAL" at the Everland Speedway in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, Korea on October 27. The event attracted around 2,800 motorsport enthusiasts and featured thrilling driving demonstrations by both companies' World Rally Championship (WRC) teams, along with interactive fan programs.The event featured Morizo (Akio Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota) at the wheel of the WRC competition vehicle "GR YARIS Rally1 HYBRID" with Euisun Chung, Executive Chair of Hyundai Motor Group, as his passenger. Before the crowd of about 2,800 spectators, the rally machine performed a donut turn, showcasing the powerful engine sound and dynamic driving performance of the WRC machine, drawing enthusiastic cheers from the audience.Following the performance, both chairmen took to the stage, exchanged warm handshakes, and shared their vision for the future of motorsport with the gathered fans.Morizo began his speech with "Saranghaeyo!" (meaning "I love you" in Korean) and continued, "Earlier this year, I met with Executive Chair Chung in Japan, where this idea gained momentum, and remarkably, we were able to realize this event just ten months later. I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported making this event possible. Toyota and Hyundai will work hand in hand to create a better society and the future of mobility.""With our high-performance N brand, we're committed to delivering excitement and satisfying all car enthusiasts. We'll continue to push forward in motorsport alongside Toyota so that more people can enjoy the thrill of driving" said Euisun Chung, Executive Chair of Hyundai Motor Group. "When I met with Chairman Akio Toyoda earlier this year, we discovered our mutual passion for racing, and I was delighted that we could hold this event. Chairman Toyoda is someone in the automotive industry that I respect deeply, and it's an honor to be here with him today," he added.The entire proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Korea Automobile Racing Association to promote and develop motorsport culture.Reflecting on the event, Morizo said:"In organizing this event, my first priority was to express gratitude to the Korean people. Having both Toyota and Hyundai chairmen appear together at a motorsport event and speak before our customers is truly symbolic. We've created a 'Car Enthusiasts Alliance' where we, usual competitors, join forces for the future of automobiles. With WRC fans supporting both teams, and Hyundai currently leading the rankings, this was a historic event that hints at potential new drama at Rally Japan. To all fans worldwide looking forward to Rally Japan, I believe the drivers will prepare thoroughly and deliver excellent performances at the final race, so please continue your support."Both companies' rally teams will compete in the "FIA World Rally Championship FORUM8 Rally Japan 2024" to be held in Aichi and Gifu Prefectures from Thursday, November 21 to Sunday, November 24. Fans can be sure to look forward to an competition. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
NEC launches new end to end private 5G solution with Cisco JCN Newswire

NEC launches new end to end private 5G solution with Cisco

TOKYO, Oct 28, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701), a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies, is joining forces with Cisco to deliver a new private 5G network solution to their customers. Architecture that includes Cisco 5G SA Core and a Cloud Control Centre together with the validated radio network and systems integration services provided by NEC makes the solution ready for a go to market stage.Cisco expertise in core networks and NEC experience and knowledge in wireless networks will be the key not only to implement but to maintaining and supporting private 5G networks for enterprise customers directly or by collaborating with service providers globally, starting from Europe and the Middle East.A demonstration facility and lab at NEC enable customers to prove the end-to-end solution and validate multiple use cases for supporting the digital transformation of customers’ business operations in industries such as logistics, warehousing, event venues and airport management and operation."The needs for modernized architecture in 5G have steadily enhanced our partnership with Cisco, leading us to this next level," said Hideyuki Ogata, Senior Executive Professional, Global Network Division, NEC. "The industry-leading solutions from Cisco and our ecosystem partners, combined with our world-class network integration capabilities, enable us to deliver compelling solutions to multiple operators and verticals across the world.""Our collaboration with NEC leverages our combined strengths to bring cutting-edge private 5G solutions to enterprises worldwide," said Masum Mir, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Provider Mobility, Cisco. "Together with NEC, we are creating a powerful force to drive digital transformation and innovation across multiple sectors, and support the critical changes needed in networking infrastructure to carry the internet into the next decade."Private 5GPrivate 5G networks involve the deployment of 5G infrastructure (antennas, base stations, etc.) dedicated to serving the connectivity needs of a specific enterprise or entity. This technology allows organizations to customize their network according to their specific requirements, optimizing performance and security.5G technology inherently offers lower latency, enabling real-time communication crucial for applications such as the Industrial Internet of Things and automation. Private 5G networks can handle a large number of connected devices and provide high data transfer speeds.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/ and www.nec.com/en/global/solutions/5g/index.html. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
Mitsubishi Power Receives Order for Facility Retrofit at the Darajat Geothermal Power Plant in Indonesia JCN Newswire

Mitsubishi Power Receives Order for Facility Retrofit at the Darajat Geothermal Power Plant in Indonesia

TOKYO, Oct 28, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Power, a power solutions brand of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), has received a turnkey contract from Star Energy Geothermal Darajat II, Limited (SEG), a geothermal power producer in Indonesia, for the retrofit of Unit 3 at its Darajat Geothermal Power Plant in Java. Mitsubishi Power will upgrade the steam turbine and related equipment, with work scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2026. The introduction of a highly efficient and reliable steam turbine for this project will provide a stable supply of electricity, while also contributing to reduced CO2 emissions and a greater renewable energy ratio for the country.Darajat Geothermal Power PlantMHI's Nagasaki Shipyard & Machinery Works in Nagasaki will handle design, manufacturing, and installation support for this project. PT. Mitsubishi Power Indonesia, will provide support for long-term stable operation following the on-site installation and retrofit work. Mitsubishi Power received this contract on a turn-key basis from SEG in recognition of Mitsubishi Power's exceptional steam turbine technologies that enable increased output by updating certain parts of the facility, and its high level of skill in carrying out on-site installation work.The geothermal power plant to be retrofitted is located in Garut, West Java, about 200 kilometers southeast of the capital Jakarta. Mitsubishi Power provided a steam turbine for the plant in 2007. This retrofit will increase the power output from the rated 121 megawatts (MW) to 129 MW.Commenting on the agreement, Kazuhiro Yoshida, President of PT. Mitsubishi Power Indonesia, said: "Indonesia has the second-largest geothermal power generation capacity in the world. We have provided a total of six units for geothermal power plants in the country, with total output amounting to approximately 400 MW. In addition, we are currently involved in the construction of an additional unit. Through geothermal power generation and other clean energy technologies, MHI will contribute to achieving the Indonesian government's goal of carbon neutrality by 2060."SEG is the core company in PT Barito Renewables Energy Tbk (BREN) Group, the principal renewable energy operator in Indonesia and one of the largest firms in Indonesia by market capitalization. Hendra Soetjipto Tan, CEO of both BREN and SEG, said regarding the project: "Amid rising electricity demand in Indonesia, there is also greater pressure from consumers for electricity derived from renewable energy. Through this project, we will contribute to both Indonesia's economic development and cleaner energy."Going forward, MHI Group will make further efforts to support the widespread adoption of high-performance and highly reliable technologies, while also contributing to the stable supply of electricity essential for economic development around the world, and the preservation of the global environment by promoting the decarbonization of energy.At the Signing CeremonyAbout MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
Title showdown beckons for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing JCN Newswire

Title showdown beckons for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing

TOKYO, Oct 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing is ready for an FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) title showdown when a rollercoaster 2024 season reaches its climax in the 8 Hours of Bahrain on Saturday 2 November.The team heads into the season’s eighth and final race with a mission to retain its manufacturers’ World Championship against strong competition from Ferrari and Porsche. In the seven races so far, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing has earned two victories, and a win in Bahrain will guarantee the title for the sixth successive season.Kamui Kobayashi and Nyck de Vries retain a slim chance of the drivers’ title but to do so, they must win the race, alongside #7 GR010 HYBRID team-mate Mike Conway, and hope the #6 Porsche crew fail to score points. Last year’s Bahrain winners, and outgoing drivers’ World Champions, Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley and Ryo Hirakawa will fight for their second win of the season in their #8 GR010 HYBRID in Saturday’s race, which begins in daylight and ends after sunset.TOYOTA GAZOO Racing has a formidable record at the Bahrain International Circuit, having won the last seven WEC races there, including six consecutive one-two finishes. In total it has won nine of its 12 races in the island kingdom, earning six pole positions and five front-row lock-outs.The challenge is tougher than ever this year against an 18-strong Hypercar field including title rivals Ferrari and Porsche, who are both are in the fight for the drivers’ and manufacturers’ crowns. Alpine, BMW, Cadillac and Peugeot showed speed at Fuji Speedway and are expected to join an exciting battle for honours.The 5.412km Bahrain International Circuit is the traditional venue for WEC’s season finale, having hosted the last race in eight of the 11 seasons since WEC’s return in 2012. Its 15-turn lay-out features a mix of high-speed and slower corners and is renowned for being abrasive with high grip levels, creating a particular challenge in terms of tyre management.Practice for the Saturday race begins on Thursday with two 90-minute sessions, one in daylight and the other under lights, and concludes on Friday. The grid will be decided during the qualifying and Hyperpole sessions, starting at 4.40pm local time (2.40pm CET) on Friday, while the 8 Hours of Bahrain starts at 2pm (midday CET) on Saturday.The track action continues on Sunday with the traditional rookie test, when Esteban Masson will drive a GR010 HYBRID for the first time as part of the team’s commitment to giving opportunities to young, upcoming drivers. The 20-year-old Frenchman has impressed this season driving the #87 Lexus RC F LMGT3 entered by the AKKODIS ASP Team in WEC’s LMGT3 category. If TOYOTA GAZOO Racing wins the manufacturers’ title, 21-year-old European Le Mans Series racer Reshad de Gerus will also test a GR010 HYBRID as the WEC-nominated rookie.Kamui Kobayashi (Team Principal and driver, car #7):“It’s the end of an exciting and challenging season. As a team we have enjoyed some great moments as well also some difficult ones, like the last race at Fuji Speedway. The competition has been incredibly tough all season but thanks to the big effort from everyone, we go into the last race with the destiny of the manufacturers’ World Championship still in our control. We know that a win will give us the title so that is our target, and everyone will give their maximum to achieve it. We need a perfect weekend and we’re ready for the challenge.”Mike Conway (Driver, car #7):“I enjoy racing in Bahrain. It’s a fun track to drive and a place which has given me some great memories; I won my first race with Toyota back in 2014 as well as my two drivers’ titles there. As a team we also have a successful record in Bahrain and we want to keep that going this year, even though we expect another close fight because Porsche and Ferrari will be strong again. We’ll have to be at the top of our game, but we’ve prepared well and we’re looking forward to it.”Nyck de Vries (Driver, car #7):“It’s the final race of my first season as a TOYOTA GAZOO Racing race driver and we still have the manufacturers’ World Championship to fight for so I can’t wait for Bahrain. I know the track well from other series and I tested a TS050 HYBRID there all the way back in 2019 during the rookie test, which kind of started my story with the team. So, it’s nice to be going back there as a Toyota race driver. Fuji was tough for us, but it was another strong team effort and we’re ready to go again.”Sébastien Buemi (Driver, car #8):“I always enjoy going to Bahrain. It’s a great circuit, with nice facilities and good weather, plus some of my family live there so it almost feels like a home race. The circuit is fun, particularly the high-speed section from turn five, because it’s fast and flowing before the hairpin, where there’s a chance to overtake. It’s an unusual race because it runs into the night, so the temperature changes quite a bit. That makes it more challenging to find the right set-up so we will work closely on that in practice.”Brendon Hartley (Driver, car #8):“Bahrain is the last race of an exciting season, and we go there fighting for the manufacturers’ World Championship, which is one of the team’s big targets every year. Historically we have gone well in Bahrain and the circuit always seemed to suit our car, so hopefully that’s a positive sign for the coming week. It’s a longer race than normal so it’s more important than ever to execute a clean race and get our strategies right. I know the whole team has worked hard to prepare and we can’t wait to get started.”Ryo Hirakawa (Driver, car #8):“Our aim in Bahrain is to win the race and therefore the World Championship but it will not be easy. Our competitors were strong at Fuji, and we expect another challenging race, but we are fighting as hard as possible, and we will not give up. We have to be fully concentrated all weekend to get the maximum performance from our car. If we do that, we have a chance, so we will keep pushing to end the season on a high and give our all supporters and partners a result to cheer.”About Toyota Toyota strives to be a strong corporate citizen, engaging with and earning the trust of its stakeholders, and to contribute to the creation of a prosperous society through all its business operations.Our corporate principles form the basis of our initiatives, reflect values that enable action, and drive our mindset.For the latest Toyota-related news and information:https://tinyurl.com/ToyotaPressReleasenewsroom@global.toyota Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing to Exhibit Immersive Content at Super Taikyu Series 2024 Final Fuji JCN Newswire

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing to Exhibit Immersive Content at Super Taikyu Series 2024 Final Fuji

Toyota City, Japan, Oct 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) announced today that it will exhibit Japan's first(1) outdoor-compatible mobile immersive dome tent in the event square at the ENEOS Super Taikyu Series 2024 Empowered by BRIDGESTONE Round7 (Round 7 Super Taikyu Final Fuji), to be held on Saturday, November 16 and Sunday, November 17, 2024. This initiative aims to communicate the appeal of motorsports and the Super Taikyu Series in a new way while conveying its fun and depth to as many people as possible, including children.Immersion is a communication technique that combines audio and visual experiences in all directions to create a three-dimensional immersive experience. In this exhibit, immersion is combined with a large tent that is 14 meters wide and 8.2 meters tall to create a design that allows visitors to experience the thrill and speed of motorsports in a realistic way.The content also makes full use of audio and video collected from Super Taikyu races over the course of the year, allowing visitors to enjoy a synesthetic experience that focuses on the perspectives of various people involved in the races, such as drivers and mechanics, as well as cars and parts, such as the hydrogen engine and carbon-neutral fuel.The tent and video content are being produced in collaboration with T&S Ltd.(2)This content was planned and developed through discussions on how to promote the appeal of motorsports and the Super Taikyu Series, based on the Super Taikyu Waigaya Club's(3) desire to invigorate them. Production was made possible by the cooperation of the Super Taikyu MIRAI Organization, which manages the Super Taikyu Series, and Fuji International Speedway Co., Ltd., the race organizer, as well as the Super Taikyu Waigaya Club members SUBARU CORPORATION, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Honda Racing Corporation, and Mazda Motor Corporation, all of whom shot and provided new videos overflowing with realism.TGR hopes that this initiative will not only provide entertainment, but also help spread the appeal of motorsports and contribute to the development of the industry. Starting with the Round 7 Super Taikyu Final Fuji exhibition, TGR is considering exhibiting at various events and venues beyond the arena of motorsports to provide this new experience to as many people as possible.(1) As of October 2024, according to Toyota Motor Corporation(2) Click here for details (Japanese only) https://pr.t8s.co.jp/news_toyota_20241025/ (3) A forum formed by automobile manufacturers to create the future of cars and motorsports across the boundaries of manufacturers.Click here for details (Japanese only) https://supertaikyu.com/waigaya/index.html About Toyota Toyota strives to be a strong corporate citizen, engaging with and earning the trust of its stakeholders, and to contribute to the creation of a prosperous society through all its business operations.Our corporate principles form the basis of our initiatives, reflect values that enable action, and drive our mindset.For the latest Toyota-related news and information:https://tinyurl.com/ToyotaPressReleasenewsroom@global.toyota Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
Joint proposal by NTT, KDDI, Fujitsu, NEC, and Rakuten Mobile adopted as Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications/NICT’s “Innovative ICT Fund Projects for Beyond 5G/6G” for social implementation and overseas expansion oriented strategic program (common infrastructure technology establishment) JCN Newswire

Joint proposal by NTT, KDDI, Fujitsu, NEC, and Rakuten Mobile adopted as Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications/NICT’s “Innovative ICT Fund Projects for Beyond 5G/6G” for social implementation and overseas expansion oriented strategic program (common infrastructure technology establishment)

TOKYO, Oct 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NTT Corporation, KDDI Corporation, KDDI Research, Inc. participating in research and development as a research collaborator, Fujitsu Limited, NEC Corporation, and Rakuten Mobile, Inc. were selected by the Japan-based National Institute of Information and Communications Technology to conduct newly commissioned research in FY 2024 pertaining to a strategic program oriented toward social implementation and overseas expansion (common infrastructure technology establishment) for the Innovative ICT Fund Projects for Beyond 5G/6G.Through this research and development, the above parties will develop a technology that enables users to simultaneously use multiple cloud data centers and to switch connection destinations flexibly, in addition to ensuring fault tolerance and service quality assurance through cooperation among All-Photonics Networks (hereinafter "APN") of multiple providers. We will also develop a small APN node that will enable APN deployment at rural data centers and small and medium-sized sites.In the Beyond 5G/6G era, society's informatization will accelerate further, and enormous information processing will be required. The need for APNs is growing as demand is expected to increase for the further expansion of transmission capacity and higher processing speed for existing information and communications systems, as well as for technologies that provide the lower power consumption required for carbon neutrality. Under such circumstances, discussions on providing APNs widely to society were held by Japan’s Technology Strategy Committee of the Information and Communications Technology Subcommittee of the Information and Communications Council and the All-Optical Network Common Infrastructure Technology Working Group established under this committee. As a result, the idea that it is necessary to connect multiple sites simultaneously and to have functions to collaborate among providers was expressed in the reports "Information and Communications Technology Strategy Toward Beyond 5G" (June 2024)1 and "Development Direction and Dissemination Measures for All-Photonics Network Common Infrastructure Technology" (May 2024)2. In order to develop this technology, NICT has solicited proposals for the Beyond 5G (6G) Fund Project, to which NTT, KDDI, Fujitsu, NEC, and Rakuten Mobile jointly submitted proposals.On October 22, 2024, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications and NICT announced the results of their selection for the "Beyond 5G (6G) Fund Project" as a social implementation and overseas expansion oriented strategic program (common infrastructure technology establishment), and the above five companies were selected to implement the program.This research and development will enable APNs from multiple providers to cooperate to ensure fault tolerance and service quality assurance, as well as enable users to simultaneously use multiple cloud data centers and switch connection destinations flexibly. The above parties are also planning to develop a small APN node, which will enable the deployment of APNs in regional data centers and small and medium-sized sites.The following items will be addressed in this research and development:R&D Item 1: Develop overall APN architectureR&D Item 2: Research and develop common APN infrastructure technology(a) Photonic network federation technologyAPI functions for accepting communication user's requests and function for reliable and stable interconnection between APNs of various carriers according to communication user's requests (e.g. destination, communication quality).(b) Subchannel circuit exchange technologyEnables the simultaneous use of multiple clouds and data centers as well as flexible switching, when accommodating many communication users, ensuring communication quality (required bandwidth, delay, and jitter) by E2E according to the requirements of each communication user.(c)Distributed ROADM technology3An interface function that enables the simple operation of network nodes equipped with only a part of the main functions (wavelength insertion/branching and multiplexing functions) of the current ROADM, which enables the downsizing of APN nodes and the deployment of APN in rural data centers and small and medium-sized sites. It also provides a cooperation function between the ROADM node with the main functions and the downsized APN node being considered for installation.Figure 1: Overview of R&D Activities for Common Infrastructure TechnologyWhen the outcomes of this research and development are implemented in society, APNs of various providers, including different communication carriers, can be used seamlessly. For example, it will enable high-speed, low-latency simultaneous connection to multiple providers that provide AI, cloud, and other services, as well as flexible selection and switching of connection destinations. The five companies will collaborate to realize such a society.1. www.soumu.go.jp/menu_news/s-news/01tsushin03_02000402.html2. www.soumu.go.jp/menu_news/s-news/01tsushin03_02000400.html3. ROADM (Reconfigurable Optical Add Drop Multiplexing)It is a reconfigurable node device that can add, drop, and multiplex arbitrary optical wavelengths at the optical signal exchange point.ShareAbout NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
MHI-MME Licenses Manufacturing and Sale of MET Turbochargers to Leading Chinese Marine Machinery Manufacturer JCN Newswire

MHI-MME Licenses Manufacturing and Sale of MET Turbochargers to Leading Chinese Marine Machinery Manufacturer

TOKYO, Oct 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Marine Machinery and Equipment Co., Ltd (MHI-MME), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has concluded a licensing agreement with Jiangsu Masada Heavy Industries Co, Ltd. (Jiangsu Masada), a privately owned marine machinery manufacturer in China, for the manufacture and sale of MET Turbochargers, its exhaust gas turbine type turbochargers for two-stroke marine engines.Signing CeremonyWith the conclusion of this agreement, Jiangsu Masada plans to start manufacturing MET Turbochargers in 2025, focusing principally on assembly, and gradually expanding to full-scale production including processes other than assembly. MHI-MME's aim with this licensing agreement is to further penetrate the Chinese market with high-quality products and services.Jiangsu Masada has a long relationship with MHI Group, and has previously concluded licensing agreements for deck cranes in 2008, and steering gears and deck machinery in 2012. At present, Jiangsu Masada is a leading manufacturer of marine machinery, boasting the largest share in the Chinese market for deck cranes, deck machinery, and steering gears.MHI-MME developed the world's first non-water cooled turbocharger, the forerunner of the MET series, in 1965. High-efficiency, high-capacity models have since been added to the lineup, and today MET Turbochargers are one of the global standards for exhaust gas turbine types. Total cumulative production volume of MET Turbochargers has now reached 45,000 units, accounting for more than 40%(Note) of the global market (in fiscal 2023) for units used in marine two-stroke engines.Going forward, MHI-MME will continue to maintain and develop a positive cooperative relationship with Jiangsu Masada, and further proactively develop and market MHI brand marine machinery.About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
Fujitsu and Toyota Systems Corporation achieve 50% reduction in core system update time using generative AI JCN Newswire

Fujitsu and Toyota Systems Corporation achieve 50% reduction in core system update time using generative AI

Kawasaki and Nagoya, Japan, Oct 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu Limited and Toyota Systems Corporation (Toyota Systems) today announced the successful completion of field trials leveraging Fujitsu’s generative AI offerings on Fujitsu Kozuchi (1) to improve productivity and accelerate the modernization of Toyota Systems’ system development and operations. The trials confirmed a 50% reduction in the work time required for system updates as compared to conventional manual processes. The reductions were achieved by automating incompatibility checks and removals and program correction associated with OS and programming language updates.Based on these positive results, Toyota Systems will commence practical application of this technology starting January, 2025.Toyota Systems develops and operates core systems for production, logistics, sales, and other functions used by the Toyota Group. Sometimes it is necessary to update the underlying OS and programming languages of these systems, but carrying out the associated tasks of compatibility checks, identifying affected areas, correcting programs, and conducting testing are labor-intensive.To address this challenge, Fujitsu and Toyota Systems started trials in October 2023, leveraging Toyota Systems’ expertise in core systems and Fujitsu’s software development and generative AI knowledge to find a way to streamline the updating process.The field trials focused on approximately 15,000 files developed in Java and SQLJ. The generative AI successfully extracted system-impacting incompatibilities based on provided information and automatically corrected the programs. Fujitsu and Toyota Systems confirmed the corrections were accurate and as a result achieved a 50% reduction in work time compared to if the tasks had been carried out manually.Moving forward, the two companies aim to further improve productivity by expanding the application of generative AI to other programming languages beyond Java and SQLJ, as well as to the testing phase. They also plan to deploy this technology to other Toyota Group systems and projects to accelerate modernization across the organization.Toyota Systems will leverage generative AI to radically improve system development efficiency, freeing up resources to drive further innovation and ultimately deliver new value to the mobility sector and society. Fujitsu will continue to support Toyota Systems’ initiatives and aims to commercialize an AI service that streamlines program updates, contributing to the Toyota Group's digital transformation (DX).Figure: Diagram of the update process using Fujitsu’s generative AI offerings on Fujitsu Kozuchi [1] Fujitsu’s generative AI offerings on Fujitsu Kozuchi: Interactive generative AI service for enterprises provided via Fujitsu Kozuchi through the Fujitsu Data Intelligence PaaS operations platformAbout 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 Toyota Systems CorporationToyota Systems is an IT solutions company established in Jan. 2019 by merging 3 different Toyota IT subsidiaries. The mission of the company is to support Toyota Motor Corporation and its group companies by developing innovative IT solutions and, by doing so, to contribute to develop the mobility society of the future. The number of the employees is approximately 3,000 and its support covers most of the Toyota’s main business areas such as R&D, production, logistics, sales, administration etc... For more information, please see https://www.toyotasystems.com/en/.Press Contacts:Fujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiriesToyota Systems CorporationPR and Management GroupInquiries Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
Joint Study by Idemitsu Kosan and Mitsubishi Corporation on Low-Carbon Ammonia JCN Newswire

Joint Study by Idemitsu Kosan and Mitsubishi Corporation on Low-Carbon Ammonia

TOKYO, Oct 23, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Idemitsu Kosan ("Idemitsu") and Mitsubishi Corporation ("MC") have agreed to jointly study the efficient operation of clean ammonia carriers and transshipment terminals, participation in ExxonMobil’s planned low-carbon hydrogen and low-carbon ammonia production project * in Baytown, Texas, USA, as well as the offtake of ammonia. Through this joint study, Idemitsu and MC will accelerate their study on structuring a supply chain for low-carbon ammonia procured from overseas.*This planned project will produce virtually carbon-free hydrogen with approximately 98% of carbon dioxide (CO2) removed and low-carbon ammonia. Final investment decision is expected in 2025 and is subject to necessary regulatory permits. This project aims to start production of low-carbon hydrogen (approximately 900,000 tons per year) and low-carbon ammonia (over 1 million tons per year) by 2029 and is expected to be the world's largest of its kind.Idemitsu has established an ammonia import and receiving terminal utilizing the existing infrastructure at its Tokuyama Complex in Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, and aims to jointly introduce over 1 million tons of ammonia as fuel and raw materials by 2030 in cooperation with neighboring companies in the Shunan Industrial Complex. In February of this year, Idemitsu’s Tokuyama Complex conducted a demonstration of ammonia combustion in naphtha cracking furnace that is currently in commercial use, the first of its kind in Japan, and in May, Agency for Natural Resources and Energy, METI adopted the "Ammonia supply base in the Shunan region, pipeline development in the region, and combustion facility study project" together with the 3 companies in Shunan Industrial Complex as part of the Government’s Hydrogen Supply Infrastructure Development Project. In order to be a pioneer in strengthening the competitiveness of domestic industrial complexes, Idemitsu is working with industries, government and academia to make the entire region carbon neutral.MC is assessing the partial conversion of its LPG terminal (Namikata Terminal) in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, into an ammonia terminal. MC is preparing to build a hub terminal that will supply approximately 1 million tons of ammonia annually to various industrial applications such as electricity, transportation and chemicals by 2030. In April 2023, MC and potential customers in the Shikoku and Chugoku regions agreed to establish “Council for utilizing Namikata Terminal as a Hub for introducing Fuel Ammonia,” and have been discussing measures to handle ammonia, operate the terminal efficiently and expand demand. Taking advantage of Namikata Terminal’s 40 years of experience as an energy hub, MC is working to develop ammonia so that it can quickly respond to decarbonization demand in the region.Ammonia does not emit CO2 when burned and can effectively use existing transportation and storage facilities without significant modifications.As a result, it is expected to contribute to low-carbon and decarbonization in various industries. Idemitsu and MC both plan to supply low-carbon ammonia produced by this project to Japan through their receiving terminals.Both companies will study the structuring of a low-carbon ammonia supply chain to realize a carbon-neutral society.Inquiry Recipient:Idemitsu Kosan Co.,Ltd., Public Relations Department Public Relations www.idemitsu.com/en/contact/flow/index.html Mitsubishi CorporationCorporate Communications DepartmentTelephone:+81-3-3210-2171 Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
Hitachi helps First Bus move closer to 2035 Net Zero goal JCN Newswire

Hitachi helps First Bus move closer to 2035 Net Zero goal

LONDON, Oct 23, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Building on the partnership formed last year between Hitachi and First Bus, seven of First Bus’ depots now use Hitachi’s ZeroCarbon battery and charging management software and managed services – another move taken by the UK’s leading bus operator to accelerate its 2035 net zero fleet emissions goal.Hitachi ZeroCarbon has onboarded over 400 buses across seven First Bus depots, including Leicester, Aberdeen, Bramley, Scotstoun, Norwich, Hoeford and York. This is currently in addition to the 148 buses already under management at the Caledonia depot.The seven depots with the new services play a crucial role in ensuring operations run efficiently, helping streamline operations and overall performance.Through tariff optimisation, First Bus’ energy consumption is being reduced during peak demand periods, making significant savings on energy costs. Plus, data reports, insights and recommendations from telematics are helping First Bus monitor and extend the battery health of its fleet.A centralised view of real-time information for all depot operations has also been implemented and the operational support provided by Hitachi ZeroCarbon’s managed service team, for the charging ecosystem combined, will ensure smoother operations.Andrew Gwilliam, Product and Propositions Manager, Decarbonisation at First Bus, said: “We’re committed to reducing our impact on the communities we serve, and creating cleaner air for future generations. Our continued partnership with Hitachi ZeroCarbon helps us maximise the potential from our investment in technology, and we’re pleased that Hitachi’s goals mirror our own when it comes to being a fully net zero business. Our goal is to put the bus at the heart of an integrated, sustainable and reliable transport network, allowing us to more effectively tackle congestion, liberate roads and public spaces, and deal with the climate emergency by ending dependency on fossil fuels. We’re thrilled that Hitachi is on the journey with us.”Dan Pollard, Programme Manager at Hitachi ZeroCarbon said: “As a climate change innovator, we strive to deploy our technologies through collaboration and co-creation with our partners, enabling the decarbonisation of fleets while providing new revenue streams. We are particularly proud of the positive impact our partnership with First Bus will have on air quality in local communities. By partnering with such a sustainably ambitious business and leveraging data, technology, our managed services and a shared-ownership model with First Bus, we are able to decarbonise bus fleets faster and accelerate towards global net zero commitments.”About First BusAt First Bus, we’re on a mission to grow bus usage – so we’ll get behind initiatives that move people out of cars and onto the bus. We’re one of the UK’s largest bus operators, transporting more than a million customers a day. We serve over 20% of the population of Great Britain with our local bus services, and over half of the UK’s top 15 most populated urban areas.Transforming our business for the better, we’re putting our people and customers at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we’re the UK’s largest national bus operator to achieve real Living Wage employer status, cementing our position as an employer of choice in the sector.We’re all about making journeys easier for our customers, which is why we were the first national bus operator to roll out Tap On, Tap Off payment technology across our entire fleet of around 4,500 buses. Our First Bus app has also been voted ‘best in class’ amongst UK bus operators. First Bus is committed to operating a zero-emission bus fleet by 2035. We already operate over 600 zero-emission buses – that’s 14% of our overall fleet. We’re passionate about giving back to the communities we serve, which is why we’re helping local businesses to progress their own decarbonisation journeys – giving them access to our charging hubs while our buses are on the road. We also operate the Aircoach network in Ireland, Specialist Passenger Solutions, First Travel Solutions, York Pullman Bus Company and Ensignbus. First Bus is a division of FirstGroup.Find more information on our website here: https://news.firstbus.co.uk/About Hitachi ZeroCarboHitachi ZeroCarbon’s mission is to provide end-to-end solutions to decarbonise commercial vehicle fleets globally, helping them to accelerate electrification and sustainability, reduce battery risk and total cost of ownership, and generate new revenues. Deploying data analytics and digital optimisation technologies, we provide the platform to optimise battery performance and life, charge EV fleets and decarbonise sites and depots through a battery charging and management service model. Through digital optimisation, our solutions are designed to meet the unique needs of commercial vehicle fleets, offering a range of charging options that maximises fleet efficiency and minimises costs. These solutions are built on the foundation of leading the innovation programme Optimise Prime, the world’s largest commercial EV trial of more than 8,000 vehicles. Leveraging Hitachi’s global reach and industry experience, we offer battery financing solutions to help accelerate electric fleet transition, reduce capital expenditure, and maximise the residual value of assets.For more information: https://www.hitachizerocarbon.com. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
Valuufy appoints Dr Sachio Semmoto as Chairman of the Board, Signaling a New Era in Sustainability Assessment JCN Newswire

Valuufy appoints Dr Sachio Semmoto as Chairman of the Board, Signaling a New Era in Sustainability Assessment

KYOTO, Japan, October 23, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Valuufy, a sustainability assessment startup, today announced the appointment of Dr Sachio Semmoto as Chairman of the Board. This strategic move comes at a critical juncture for the sustainability sector. It also emphasizes Valuufy's commitment to transform how organizations measure and create sustainable value.Dr Sachio Semmoto, appointed Chairman of the Board at Valuufy, Inc."The sustainability sector is at a critical inflection point, facing challenges such as greenwashing and lack of standardized metrics, but also unprecedented opportunities," said Dr Semmoto. "Valuufy's approach to redefining sustainability measurement through the ValuuCompass has the potential to create significant positive change. I am committed to leveraging my experience to help Valuufy become a global leader in driving meaningful, measurable sustainability practices."Dr Semmoto, brings over five decades of experience in building transformative companies. His track record includes co-founding KDDI, one of Asia's largest telecommunication providers and a Fortune Global 500 Company, founding eAccess and EMOBILE (now Y! Mobile), and serving as Executive Chairman of RENOVA, a leading renewable energy company in Japan."Dr Semmoto's joining Valuufy at this stage in his career, especially given the current challenges in the sustainability sector, is a testament to the potential of our mission," said Kyle Barnes, CEO of Valuufy. "His expertise in scaling businesses from start-up to industry leaders aligns with our ambitions to redefine sustainability assessment worldwide."Dr Semmoto's career spans both academia and industry. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Florida and has held professorships at Keio University and visiting professorships at UC Berkeley, Carnegie Mellon, and Stanford University. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts, including founding the Frances & Sachio Semmoto Foundation, which provides educational opportunities to students from Asia-Pacific nationsThis appointment underscores Valuufy's commitment to combining expertise and innovative technology to address the pressing sustainability challenges facing businesses today.Following this announcement, Valuufy will be sharing a comprehensive analysis of leading sustainability ratings frameworks against the ValuuCompass, illustrating where they fall short in comprehensively analyzing true stakeholder impact and value creation.About ValuufyValuufy seeks to transform how the world understands and acts on sustainability. Founded in 2024, Valuufy, Inc is a registered Japanese startup in Kyoto, Japan, born of 10 years' academic value research at Doshisha University and the Value Research Center. Led by an international team with expertise in value creation, sustainability and ESG, Valuufy provides new standards that transform how companies assess, manage, and leverage their sustainability efforts. For more on Valuufy and its impact on shaping the future of sustainability strategies, visit www.valuufy.com.Contact:Kyle Barnes090-9742-0860news@valuufy.com Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More
Fujitsu to offer AI agents that can both collaborate and engage in high-level tasks autonomously JCN Newswire

Fujitsu to offer AI agents that can both collaborate and engage in high-level tasks autonomously

TOKYO, Oct 23, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu today announced the global launch of its Fujitsu Kozuchi AI Agent, an AI service that can engage in high-level tasks both autonomously and in collaboration with humans. This service will be offered through Fujitsu Data Intelligence PaaS, Fujitsu’s all-in-one operation platform that is part of the Fujitsu Uvance business model which works to provide cross-industry solutions to societal issues. As of today, Fujitsu will offer the first AI agent, for use in business profitability discussions and business negotiations to share appropriate information and propose measures. Fujitsu plans to eventually expand its AI agent lineup to include services in production management and legal affairs, and other areas, and will implement a broader roll-out of the service during fiscal 2024. In addition, Fujitsu will incorporate Fujitsu Kozuchi AI Agent into its digital offerings, including Fujitsu Uvance’s Work Life Shift.Building generative AI models for business applications requires a significant investment of time and money as well as a high level of expertise and there is no guarantee that a single AI model can deliver the desired results.To solve this issue, Fujitsu has developed the Fujitsu Kozuchi AI Agent. This AI can think autonomously and function as a full team member, making proactive suggestions that can lead to new insights and inspire creativity.The Fujitsu Kozuchi AI Agent uses Fujitsu’s proprietary processing logic to break down abstract issues from conversations and generate discrete tasks. The agent creates a plan to complete the tasks and selects multiple optimal AIs to implement. Models available include those developed by Fujitsu, such as Takane, a large-scale language model for enterprises with the world’s best Japanese language capability and significant customization options, Fujitsu Kozuchi AutoML, which generates advanced machine learning models in a short amount of time, as well as various models from other companies. The Fujitsu Kozuchi AI Agent provides instructions to each of the AI models and provides a solution based on the feedback.For example, the AI agent for use in business meetings will autonomously participate in necessary meetings. To give an example situation, if one of the meeting participants were to state that sales revenue in the Asia Region was half of what it had been the previous year, the AI agent would select several AI and direct them to perform an analysis based on this statement. Then, as a result, the AI agent would autonomously present a clear answer, for example stating that “I will show the amount of sales revenue from April through September in the previous and current fiscal years as a bar graph. As shown in the graph, sales revenue in other regions is the same or slightly up from the previous fiscal year, and only sales revenue in the Asia Region is down. It has decreased by 54% compared to the previous fiscal year.” In this manner, Fujitsu Kozuchi AI Agent will support the smooth progression of meetings and will contribute to increased productivity.Fujitsu will promote the use of AI agents in a wide range of business operations to further improve the efficiency of customers' businesses, and work to achieve a world in which customers can easily benefit from business transformation via generative AI.About FujitsuFujitsu’s purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers in over 100 countries, our 124,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: Computing, Networks, AI, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.7 trillion yen (US$26 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: www.fujitsu.com.Press ContactsFujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiries Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
More