APM for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

TOKYO, Apr 7, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Crystal Mover Services, Inc. (CMSI), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has concluded a contract with the City of Atlanta, Department of Aviation, operator of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in the United States, to renovate and upgrade the airport's Automated People Mover (APM) system,(1) ATL SkyTrain. The contract covers a ten-year period from March 2026 to March 2036.

CMSI provides operations and maintenance (O&M) services for airport APM systems in the United States. Given that more than 15 years have passed since MHI Group delivered Atlanta airport's APM system, this latest contract includes renewal of the signal system and various other devices and equipment, as well as additional vehicles and the replacement of existing vehicles.

Atlanta International Airport's APM system connects the main passenger terminal with the rental car center, with one intermediate station, extending a total length of approximately 2.2 kilometers. The line comprises a wholly elevated double-tracked guideway, functioning as crucial infrastructure for the airport, which has the highest passenger traffic in the world.(2) Since the start of commercial operation in December 2009, CMSI has provided O&M services 24 hours a day year-round, helping to ensure safety, reliability, and comfort. In December 2024, CMSI concluded a five-year O&M service renewal agreement for the airport, and continues to support the stable operation of the APM system.(3) In addition to CMSI's long-standing operational and maintenance track record and continuous efforts, MHI Group received this contract for renewal of the APM system equipment and facilities in recognition of its accumulated technical capabilities for the design, manufacturing, and construction of APM systems.

Going forward, MHI Group will continue to provide APM systems and O&M services that offer exceptional design, economic efficiency, and the capability to reduce CO2 emissions, contributing to improved transport convenience, solutions for local challenges, and the realization of a carbon-neutral world.

About Crystal Mover Services, Inc. (CMSI)

Since its founding in January 2009, CMSI has provided O&M services for all APM systems delivered by MHI Group to international airports in Miami, Washington Dulles, Atlanta, Orlando, and Tampa. CMSI contributes significantly to the safe and stable operation of the transportation systems serving these important hubs.

(1) APM systems are used worldwide to connect air terminals, or as transportation systems to serve areas near airports.
(2) Based on the 2024 rankings of the world's busiest airports from Airports Council International (ACI)
https://aci.aero/2025/04/14/the-busiest-airports-in-the-world-defy-global-uncertainty-and-hold-top-rankings/
(3) For more information on the renewal of the O&M contract for the Atlanta International Airport APM system received in 2024, see the following press release:
https://www.mhi.com/news/250327.html

CMSI Employees Supporting the Stable Operations of APM Systems

About MHI Group

Mitsubishi 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

TOKYO, Apr 6, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - JFE Holdings, Inc. (JFE) and Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) are pleased to announce that we have signed a Second Memorandum of Understanding (Second MOU) at the end of March, of this year toward the joint development of a power business and data center project in the Ohgishima, Keihin District. Under the Second MOU, the companies will advance the business plan with the goal of entering into a joint venture agreement.

In March 2025, JFE and MC signed an initial Memorandum of Understanding to explore the feasibility of a joint venture. Over the following year, the two companies conducted foundational technical and commercial assessments of an integrated power and data center project together with MC Digital Realty, Inc.(*1) (MCDR), leveraging the distinctive advantages of the Ohgishima Area which include a large-scale site strategically located approximately 20 km from central Tokyo and a stable power supply from JFE’s captive power plant.

Following confirmation of the feasibility of the concept to construct and operate a data center on 5 hectares of land, utilizing the adjacent JFE's captive power plant in the Ohgishima Area, which has a generating capacity of 190 MW, the companies have decided to proceed to the concretization phase of a joint venture encompassing both the data center and power businesses.

For JFE, commercialization of the data center under consideration is a key initiative under its Eighth Medium-Term Business Plan(*2) toward realizing the land use concept outlined in "OHGISHIMA 2050"(*3) and the goals of "JFE Vision 2035." JFE will commence land development at the candidate data center site and proceed with planning for the construction of the necessary infrastructure.

MC positions data centers and power, both of which are indispensable to the advancement of AI, as “AI infrastructure.” The company views this plan to develop these facilities in areas of large-scale land use conversion project to be a strong example of meeting the need to repurpose former industrial land and construct next-generation industries. Leveraging its broad industrial portfolio and accumulated expertise across diverse businesses, MC will work jointly with JFE to further develop the plan.

JFE, MC, and MCDR, a leading data center developer and operator in Japan have identified an initial site of approximately five hectares adjacent to the existing JFE power plant for data center development. The site can support at least two data centers, and the companies are targeting the commencement of operations for an initial 60 MW data center in fiscal year 2031, which can utilize electricity secured from the captive power plant. Looking ahead, the companies envision a phased expansion in line with demand trends, with additional nearby sites identified for future growth. Ultimately, this development could form a data center campus with several hundred megawatts of IT capacity. The three companies will advance concrete planning, including the design of data centers capable of supporting cloud and AI computing infrastructure. Drawing on its extensive experience in the development and operation of multiple data centers in the Greater Tokyo area, MCDR will support the initiative through the provision of a wide range of development and operational solutions.

With respect to the power business, JFE and MC will work to maximize utilization of JFE's captive power plant to deliver stable and cost-competitive electricity to the data center and other power demand within the Ohgishima Area. The companies will also explore reinforcement of the plant's generating capacity in line with progress in land use conversion and expansion of the data center business. Additionally, JFE and MC will study the potential supply of green power by leveraging Ohgishima’s planned hydrogen hub to support the future demand for power resulting from continued land use conversion and data center expansion.

Demand for data centers surges in response to growing information processing needs. However, the availability of suitable urban sites capable of accommodating their substantial power requirements remains limited. At the same time, securing a sustainable and stable power supply has become an increasingly pressing social challenge. Through this initiative, JFE and MC intend to address these issues and contribute to the enhancement of Japan's industrial competitiveness.

(*1) MC Digital Realty, Inc
MC Digital Realty, Inc. is an equal-equity joint venture between Mitsubishi Corporation and Digital Realty, a leading global data center provider with more than 300 facilities worldwide. Leveraging Mitsubishi Corporation’s expertise in real estate and infrastructure investment, along with its extensive customer network, and Digital Realty’s global platform and proven capabilities in data center development and operations, the company delivers a comprehensive range of data center solutions in Japan, enabling customers to scale their businesses and drive innovation.
(*2) “JFE Vision 2035” and Eighth Medium-Term Business Plan
https://www.jfe-holdings.co.jp/en/sustainability/sus_manage/manage/plan/
(*3) Ohgishima 2050
https://www.jfe-holdings.co.jp/en/release/2023/0907/000278/

Materiality

Based on the Three Corporate Principles, which serve as MC’s core philosophy, MC has continued to grow together with society by contributing to the sustainable development of society through its business activities while pursuing value creation. While continuously creating Shared Value guided by the Materiality, a set of crucial societal issues, MC will continue to strengthen its efforts towards sustainable corporate growth. Guided by this Materiality, MC will continue to strengthen its efforts towards sustainable corporate growth. Out of the six material issues relating to “Realizing a Carbon Neutral Society and Striving to Enrich Society Both Materially and Spiritually”, this project’s activities particularly support “Contributing to Decarbonized Societies” “Promoting Stable, Sustainable Societies and Lifestyles.” “Utilizing Innovation to Address Societal Needs” and “Addressing Regional Issues and Growing Together with Local Communities”

Inquiry Recipient

Mitsubishi Corporation
Telephone:+81-3-3210-2171

Inquiry Recipient

JFE Holdings Corporation Investor Relations and Corporate Communications Department
Telephone:+81-3-3597-3842

KARIYA, JAPAN, Apr 2, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - DENSO CORPORATION and FoodVentures announced that DENSO has acquired a partial equity stake in FoodVentures and made FoodVentures a consolidated subsidiary. Through this capital partnership, DENSO and FoodVentures will strengthen their collaboration to globally deploy the One-Stop Solution, which enables stable and predictable agricultural production through an integrated approach.

In recent years, changes in social conditions?such as the progression of climate change, a declining farming population in some areas, and growing importance of food security?have accelerated efforts around the world to secure agricultural production and improve food self-sufficiency. As a result, new entrants into the agricultural sector are emerging, and there is a growing global demand to realize sustainably local-grown agricultural production.

Since 2017, DENSO has positioned agriculture as a new pillar of its business and, in 2022, further strengthened this commitment by incorporating it into its articles of incorporation. Leveraging technologies developed through automotive component manufacturing?including production process design, sensing, and image processing?DENSO has been advancing environmental control and automation technologies for greenhouse horticulture.

In addition, DENSO has been strengthening collaboration with partners that possesses expertise in greenhouses, seeds and seedlings, and cultivation technologies?key element for sustainable agricultural production. In 2023, DENSO welcomed Certhon, a provider of advanced horticultural greenhouses, into the DENSO Group. In 2025, DENSO also welcomed Axia, a developer and distributor of tomato seeds and seedlings, and entered into a joint development agreement with Delphy, a global cultivation consulting company.

FoodVentures, newly joining the DENSO Group, has worked for more than 10 years to provide solutions that combine cultivation technologies with operational support, with a view to grow vegetables closer to its consumers. In recent years, FoodVentures has offered one-stop proposals to new entrants, covering everything from business planning to cultivation, farm operations, and crop sales, and has also provided services that undertake actual farm operations. FoodVentures has extensive expertise, and a proven track record built through supporting greenhouse horticulture operators in many countries across all climates.

Going forward, through FoodVentures, the DENSO Group will offer integrated solutions of technology and know-how globally that maximize customer?s profitability. Through these efforts, DENSO will accelerate initiatives toward enabling stable and predictable agricultural production.

DENSO CORPORATION
Food Value Chain Business Unit
Executive Officer
Yasushi Mukai

?In recent years, food growers have faced an increasing number of challenges, and agriculture is at a major turning point. By welcoming FoodVentures?which provides end-to-end support from business planning to cultivation, farm operations, and sales?into the DENSO Group, we have built a structure that enables us to deploy a One-Stop Solution globally that support the entire farming operation, beyond simply providing technology. Together with FoodVentures and our partners, we will work to realize the vision of providing safe, delicious, and environmentally friendly food anytime, anywhere, and for everyone.?

FoodVentures B.V.
CEO
Dirk Aleven

?After more than a decade of experience growing vegetables in greenhouses around the world, we see that projects are becoming larger and more complex. Exciting new opportunities are emerging, such as the use of residual heat from data centers and other co-location opportunities for greenhouses. These combinations enable safe, affordable, and fresh vegetable production close to consumers.?

?We share DENSO CORPORATION?s ambition to offer a holistic solution to the horticultural industry by combining technology, data, and know-how. This new partnership creates an opportunity to unite technology, expertise, and scale to better meet the needs of our customers.?

＜Overview of FoodVentures＞

?

Representatives of both companies shaking hands. (L-R)? FoodVentures CEO Dirk Aleven,?
DENSO CORPORATION Executive Officer?(Food Value Chain Business Unit) Yasushi Mukai

About DENSO CORPORATION

DENSO is a global automotive parts manufacturer that provides advanced automotive technologies, systems, and products. Leveraging the technologies it has cultivated through automotive component development as its core strengths, DENSO is expanding the scope of its value offerings into areas such as factory automation, food distribution, and agriculture. Among these, DENSO positions agriculture as an important business domain in order to help realize stable and predictable production, which is essential to people?s daily lives. Going forward, DENSO will further strengthen the technologies and know-how required for cultivation and will work toward realizing sustainable agricultural production by providing optimal support to greenhouse horticulture operators around the world.?https://www.denso.com/global/en/

About FoodVentures B.V.

FoodVentures is a global operator of greenhouses. It works with developers and investors to develop the right-tech solutions to grow vegetables near to its consumers, in a sustainable and cost-effective manner. The operators of FoodVentures support businesses with boots on the ground, and with the support of the expertise center in the Netherlands. With FoodVentures growers and tools it has proven to grow vegetables profitably in all various climates world-wide. FoodVentures wants to accelerate the success of CEA globally by supporting investors and business owners with their greenhouse operational knowledge and experience.?https://foodventures.eu/

Nanbu Relay Center

TOKYO, Apr 2, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Environmental & Chemical Engineering Co., Ltd. (MHIEC), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has successfully completed the construction of the Nanbu Relay Center for the Ken'ou-Kennan Clean Authority (comprising the municipalities of Shimabara City, Isahaya City, Unzen City, and Minamishimabara City) in Nagasaki Prefecture. This project is part of the waste transfer facility development and operation contract awarded to MHIEC in 2024.

The project involved establishing a new Nanbu Relay Center in Minamishimabara City and managing a total of three relay centers, including the existing Tobu and Seibu Relay Centers. This initiative supports the efficient and stable transportation of combustible waste generated throughout the member municipalities to the second-phase waste treatment facility, the Ken'ou-Kennan Clean Center, newly constructed in Isahaya City and scheduled to commence operations in April 2026.

A relay center(1) serves as a critical hub where waste collected by refuse collection vehicles is compressed using compactors and transferred to large transport vehicles for delivery to incineration plants or final disposal sites. At the Nanbu Relay Center, approximately 43 tons of combustible waste per day are compressed and volume-reduced by using a compactor-container system before being transported to the Ken'ou-Kennan Clean Center.

The total contract value for construction and operation of the facility amounts to approximately 11.375 billion yen (excluding tax). MHIEC, in joint venture with MHI Group's Jukan Operation Co., Ltd., has been entrusted with the 20-year operation and management of all three relay centers under a DBO(2) scheme.

MHIEC took over the waste treatment plant business in 2008, acquiring MHI's technological development capabilities in environmental systems and broad-ranging expertise in the construction and operation of waste management facilities both in Japan and overseas. Based on this robust track record, MHIEC is well positioned to propose comprehensive solutions encompassing all aspects from plant construction to operation and maintenance. Beyond new facility development, MHIEC actively addresses after-sales services and DBO projects. Moving forward, the Company will continue to promote proposals aimed at energy conservation, advanced incinerator operations through AI and IoT-enabled remote monitoring and automated support, and lifecycle cost reduction, thereby expanding its footprint both domestically and internationally.

(1) Relay centers are facilities where collected waste is compressed and transferred to larger transport vehicles for efficient delivery to incineration or disposal sites. For more details, please visit:
https://www.mhi.com/jp/products/environment/wastes-transfer-facility.html

(2) DBO stands for Design-Build-Operate. Under this scheme, public entities retain ownership of the facility while outsourcing its design, construction, and operation to private-sector partners.

About MHI Group

Mitsubishi 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

TOKYO, Japan, Apr 1, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Honda) today announced that it has subscribed to new shares of Gachaco, Inc. (Gachaco) issued through a third-party allotment (“this transaction”), thereby making Gachaco a consolidated subsidiary of Honda.

Gachaco was established in April 2022 as a joint venture of five companies in Japan — Honda, ENEOS Holdings, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd., Suzuki Motor Corporation and Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. — to provide a sharing service of standardized swappable batteries for electric motorcycles and to establish and maintain infrastructure for such sharing services.

Since October 2022, Gachaco has been installing Gachaco battery swapping stations primarily in Tokyo, where electric motorcycle users with a Gachaco membership can efficiently swap a depleted battery for a fully charged one whenever needed, without any waiting time for charging. The company has rolled out the service in urban areas of Tokyo, starting with corporate customers and, in January 2024, the service was expanded to individual customers as well. Gachaco has been building out its infrastructure to create an environment where anyone can use electric motorcycles without worrying about charging time and riding range. Currently, the company is expanding its network of Gachaco stations, primarily in Tokyo and Osaka, while also pursuing the establishment of a next-generation energy infrastructure that contributes to a decarbonized and circular society.

Honda is striving to achieve carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities Honda is involved in by 2050, and one of the key initiatives toward this goal is the popularization of electric mobility products. In addition to expanding the lineup of electric models, Honda believes that it is important to build battery charging and supply networks so that people can use their electric motorcycles with peace of mind; therefore, Honda has been considering Gachaco as an important partner for realizing such a future. Going forward, in order to continue to enhance the usage environment for electric motorcycle products, Honda realized that a motorcycle manufacturer needs to take the lead in this initiative. Based on this reasoning, Honda has decided to acquire additional shares in Gachaco.

As a subsidiary of Honda, Gachaco will further accelerate its ongoing initiatives to build battery charging and supply networks and work to expand its battery sharing service for users of electric construction machinery and equipment powered by swappable batteries. In addition, Gachaco will work to offer rental and maintenance services for battery swapping stations to be installed on the premises of business facilities of corporate customers with large fleets of electric motorcycles. Through these initiatives, Honda will lead the growth of Gachaco business and establish an environment where more customers can use electric mobility products safely with complete peace of mind.

Overview of the transaction

About Gachaco

*ENEOS Holdings, Inc. has invested in Gachaco through its investment company, ENEOS Innovation Partners Godo Kaisha

Gachaco station

TOKYO, Apr 1, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) announced that, as previously disclosed on November 7, 2025 announcement(1) and the February 10, 2026 announcement(2), MHI had entered into a legally binding agreement to transfer its domestic onshore wind power business (Target Business) to Electric Power Development Co., Ltd. (J-Power). We are pleased to inform you that the transfer procedures have been completed as of April 1.

This transfer of the Target Business—including engineering and after-sales services, but excluding certain continuing businesses, such a joint business with Vestas Wind A/S of Denmark—will strengthen and further expand J-Power's foundation as a wind power developer by integrating MHI's accumulated wind power expertise. This collaboration is expected to accelerate the future expansion of J-Power's wind power development activities and the strengthening of its technical and maintenance capabilities, leading to further growth. MHI is convinced that this will not only provide customers with greater value but also offer new opportunities for growth and development to employees engaged in this business.

(1) "MHI Reaches a Basic Agreement with J-POWER on the Transfer of its Domestic Onshore Wind Power Business" https://www.mhi.com/news/25110702.html
(2) "(Update on Disclosed Matter) Notice Regarding the Conclusion of an Absorption-type Split Agreement for the Succession of Business to a Subsidiary via Company Split (Simplified Absorption-type Split) and a Share Transfer Agreement for Shares in the Said Subsidiary" https://www.mhi.com/notice/notice_260210.html

About MHI Group

Mitsubishi 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 

TOKYO, Mar 30, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) and Kyoto University will operate an industry-academic laboratory, MHI Innovative Combustion Dynamics Laboratory, from April 1, with the aim of building world-class GTCC (gas turbine combined cycle) power plants with efficiency of over 70% and carbon-neutral combustion technology along with developing next-generation talent in deep-tech fields.

With global demand for electricity trending up and data centers being expanded due to advances in electrification and the popularization of generative AI, balancing a stable supply of electricity with decarbonization is a critical issue worldwide. These circumstances have seen an increase in demand for gas turbines as a core power source due to their high efficiency, highly adjustable output, and ability to supplement renewable energy while contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions. In the future, it is expected that gas turbines will be central in supporting the realization of a carbon-neutral society due to their compatibility with clean, zero-carbon fuels such as hydrogen.

Combustion technology is a core element. Combustion control that achieves both high efficiency and ultra-low emissions is a field in which Japan has honed its strengths for many years, and is an aspect that makes Japanese manufacturers internationally competitive. Ongoing investment in R&D and development of the next generation of personnel in this field is a critical initiative that will directly increase competitiveness and lead to ongoing development of Japan's energy industry.

In this laboratory, MHI will install combustion test rigs to elucidate the combustion mechanism of actual engines, utilize advanced measurement technology and numerical simulations to understand phenomena, and work to create combustion technology with new concepts, in order to fulfill its aims of pursuing innovative GTCC technology with an efficiency of over 70% and realizing carbon-neutral combustion technologies. Research will also be conducted with a view to social implementation, covering various forms of combustion such as rocket engine combustion, supersonic combustion, and reciprocating engine combustion in addition to GTCC. These initiatives will be a driving force for the realization of academic endeavors that also create social value, and will contribute to the development of the next generation of talent in deep-tech fields.

Through these initiatives, MHI will continue to produce world-leading products and fulfill the aims of Innovative Total Optimization (ITO) to expand MHI's domain and achieve overall optimization.

Summary of Industry-Academic Laboratory

Name of laboratory: MHI Innovative Combustion Dynamics Laboratory

Period of laboratory: April 1, 2026 - March 31, 2031 (five years)

Faculty member (full time): Naoto Horibe, Program-Specific Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University

Faculty member (part time): Ryoichi Kurose, Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University

Faculty member (part time): Jun Hayashi, Professor, Energy Conversion Science Dept., Graduate School of Energy Science, Kyoto University

Activities: Installation of combustion testing equipment that can recreate phenomena occurring in actual equipment, utilization of various forms of measurement and numerical calculation to understand phenomena, and development of next generation of personnel with the aim of pursuing innovative combustion technology for GTCC power plants with efficiency of over 70% and realizing carbon-neutral combustion technologies

About MHI Group

Mitsubishi 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

TOKYO, Mar 27, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501, “Hitachi”) and MUFG Bank, Ltd. (“MUFG Bank”), a consolidated subsidiary of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc. (TYO: 8306, “MUFG”) today announced a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand NextGen, their business co-creation model. Building on their collaboration launched in May 2024*1 and further developed as announced in May 2025*2 , NextGen combines Hitachi’s technology and operational expertise with MUFG’s financial capabilities to accelerate the transition to decarbonized mobility.

*1 MUFG’s Business Co-Creation and Investment into UK Battery as a Service project by Hitachi ZeroCarbon May 2024

*2 Hitachi ZeroCarbon and MUFG unite technology expertise with financial support to accelerate fleet electrification May 2025

NextGen was initially validated through a UK pilot project with First Bus, where the parties collaborated via a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to support the procurement and operation of electrification assets under a Battery-as-a-Service model. This expanded MoU extends NextGen beyond battery-focused structures, enabling broader and more scalable deployment across additional markets outside the UK and across a wider range of asset classes. These include emobility assets such as electric vehicles and charging infrastructure, associated energy management systems, and potentially extending to energy hubs supporting industrial assets, power grids and data centers.

Hitachi and MUFG Bank will also develop and scale SPV structures to finance decarbonized mobility assets for fleet and transport operators. This approach removes capital constraints and accelerates implementation, enabling operators to focus on their core transport services. From Hitachi’s side, the initiative is led by its Strategic SIB Business Unit, bringing together expertise from across Hitachi including Hitachi Energy, as ‘One Hitachi’. Hitachi will also provide managed services for asset performance and lifecycle optimization, supported by data-driven solutions from Hitachi ZeroCarbon. Through this initiative, Hitachi aims to further advance and streamline mobility and charging infrastructure operations by expanding HMAX by Hitachi, a suite of next-generation solutions that embodies Lumada 3.0, differentiated by deep domain knowledge and AI.

Electrifying commercial transport at pace will require an unprecedented deployment of vehicles, charging and energy infrastructure - alongside innovative financing models to support it. Global investment in electrified transport reached around US$750 billion in 2024, making it the largest segment of the energy transition worldwide*3 - yet many fleet operators face limited access to capital and the operational complexity of transitioning at scale. Against this backdrop, Hitachi and MUFG Bank aim to expand NextGen as a repeatable model to accelerate implementation by combining structured asset financing with managed services and data-driven optimization.

*3 Sources: BloombergNEF’s Energy transition Investment Trends 2025

In demonstration of the expanded pipeline, Hitachi ZeroCarbon and MUFG Bank have also entered into an MoU with Boreal Norge AS and its subsidiary Boreal Buss AS, one of Norway’s primary transport operators, providing transport services across several counties and employing around 3,000 employees across its fleet, which includes over 850 buses and 35 ferries. The parties will explore how they can support Boreal’s transition planning, de-risk operations, optimize services and strengthen competitiveness as concessions evolve.

Jun Taniguchi, Senior Vice President and Executive Officer, CEO of Strategic SIB Business Unit, at Hitachi, Ltd. said:

“We are delighted to advance this partnership which combines Hitachi’s deep expertise in social infrastructure and digital technologies with MUFG Bank, Ltd.’s financial strength to accelerate the transition to a decarbonized society. By improving the performance of assets such as batteries and charging infrastructure through Hitachi’s digital services led by HMAX, we can truly help customers optimize the total cost of ownership. This partnership embodies our One Hitachi approach, leveraging our diverse capabilities across the Group to support our customers in achieving their net-zero ambitions.”

Masakazu Osawa, Senior Managing Executive Officer Chief Executive, Japanese Corporate & Investment Banking Business Unit of MUFG Bank, Ltd., said:

“Building on MUFG’s Business Co‑Creation and Investment approach, this collaboration with Hitachi aims to create value through strategic partnerships that improve society and the environment. For the global EV market, our focus is not only on strengthening Hitachi’s leading position in Battery as a Service, but also on fostering a holistic value chain — including second‑ life battery markets — that supports the acceleration of electric mobility and the achievement of 2050 net‑zero targets. Together with our partners, we are committed to co‑creating sustainable businesses that become a driving force for progress worldwide.”

Nikolai Knudsmoen Utheim, Group CEO, Boreal Norge AS said:

“Our priority has always been to deliver first-class transport services to our customers, whether that’s on the road, rail or over water. In exploring how we can unlock the power of electrified fleets, we can not only deliver more sustainable operations, but upgrade our infrastructure and thread technology across our entire business model for more efficient, smart transport and energy management.”

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi contributes to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. Hitachi operates globally in four sectors – Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries – and the Strategic SIB Business Unit for new growth businesses. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi generates value from integrating data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY2024 (ended March 31, 2025) totaled 9,783.3 billion yen, with 618 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 280,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com.

About MUFG

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc. (MUFG) is one of the world’s leading financial groups. Headquartered in Tokyo and with over 360 years of history, MUFG has a global network with approximately 2,000 locations in more than 40 countries. The Group has about 150,000 employees and offers services including commercial banking, trust banking, securities, credit cards, consumer finance, asset management, and leasing. The Group aims to “be the world’s most trusted financial group” through close collaboration among our operating companies and flexibly respond to all of the financial needs of our customers, serving society, and fostering shared and sustainable growth for a better world. MUFG’s shares trade on the Tokyo, Nagoya, and New York stock exchanges. For more information, visit https://www.mufg.jp/english.

About Boreal

Boreal is a leading mobility provider, operating buses, fast ferries, passenger ferries and trams in Norway and Sweden. We remain firmly committed to our societal mission of encouraging more people to travel collectively. At the same time, we are more than public transport. As the only company operating buses, ferries, fast ferries, trams and tourism services, we deliver integrated mobility solutions and travel experiences. Although Boreal is a young company in name, its heritage extends back more than 150 years. The company has around 3,000 employees and is headquartered in Stavanger, Norway.

The Frst New Leo Liner "L00 Series"

TOKYO, Mar 27, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has completed delivery of the first trainsets L00 Series ("Leo-kei") trains (4 cars per trainset, total 12 cars) ordered by Seibu Railway Co., Ltd. for its Yamaguchi Line, an automated guideway transit (AGT) system. Commercial operation of the first train began on March 27th. That same day, Seibu Railway held a commemorative ceremony for the start of commercial operation, attended by Tokorozawa City Mayor Masatoshi Onozuka and Higashimurayama City Mayor Takashi Watanabe.

The new L00 Series are being manufactured at MHI's Mihara Machinery Works in Hiroshima Prefecture, and are scheduled to be delivered sequentially by FY2027. The seating arrangement has been changed from the bench seats used in the existing 8500 Series vehicles to longitudinal seats to increase transport capacity to BELLUNA DOME baseball stadium and Seibuen Amusement Park. To meet diverse passenger needs, wheelchair spaces, children's seats, and in-car information displays have been installed to enhance convenience.

In addition, the new trains incorporate many unique specifications designed by MHI especially for AGT system vehicles, including aluminum bodyshells, the MHI bogie,(1), a ceiling duct air conditioning system,(2) and A-MVCS (Advanced Mitsubishi Vehicle Control System). The A-MVCS in particular, in addition to the vehicle control function, has monitoring and commissioning functions for each piece of on-board equipment, allowing it to flexibly meet the needs of railway operators.

Further, a large glass window has been installed in the partition wall between the driver's cab and the children's seat, allowing children to enjoy the view from the front window and driver's seat, enhancing the sense of excitement for passengers.

This AGT system utilizes rubber tires for a smooth ride and low noise. In addition, as a type of clean mobility with low CO2 emissions, the system has a reduced environmental impact, supporting the realization of a decarbonized and energy-efficient world. The adoption of vehicles that combine excellent design and environmental performance also enhances the impression of the surrounding facilities.

Going forward, MHI Group will continue to strive for technological innovation, and through services that safely and comfortably transport people and goods, contribute to the development of public transport that supports the lives of people around the world.

(1) A bogie developed by MHI for AGT systems. It is compatible with general rubber tire operation for AGTs.
(2) A system that directs air through ducts behind the ceiling to provide air conditioning.

About MHI Group

Mitsubishi 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

TOKYO, Japan, Mar 26, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi Rail announced that it will manufacture rolling stock for a new restaurant train, Fine Dining Train “vies,” in which SEIBU RAILWAY Co.,Ltd. is participating. The train is scheduled to begin operations in March 2028, and the train name and logo design have now been finalized.

Realising a premium travel experience through rolling stock manufacturing

Drawing on the technologies and expertise it has cultivated through the design and manufacture of railway rolling stock, Hitachi will be responsible for manufacturing the vehicles for this train. Fine Dining Train “vies” builds upon and further develops the concept established by “ Fifty Two Seats of Happiness ,” Seibu Railway’s full - course restaurant train that has been in operation since 2016, with the aim of delivering a more refined and exclusive space and dining experience. The train will be newly designed and manufactured based on the Seibu Railway flagship limited express train “Laview,” which was manufactured by Hitachi and debuted in 2019. Hitachi will apply to this project the technical know - how it has gained through the development and manufacture of Laview, including the creation of open and spacious interiors enabled by large windows, design philosophies that harmonize with surrounding landscapes, and technologies that realize a comfortable travel environment. In addition, Hitachi’s contribution extends beyond vehicle manufacturing alone. By leveraging its expertise in control and system technologies that support safe, stable operation and passenger comfort, Hitachi will help realize a travel experience in which dining and space are integrated at a high level. Through the creation of a premium travel environment that ensures safety and comfort while supporting “ quality time shared with someone special ,” Hitachi will continue to deliver new value.

Key information

• Train Name: Fine Dining Train “vies”
• Planned Start of Operations: March 2028
• Rolling Stock Manufacturer: Hitachi Rail
• Naming Development: Toshiyuki Konishi (POOL inc.)
• Logo Design: Hideyuki Tanno (POOL DESIGN inc.)

Naming concept

Fine Dining Train “vies” “Vie” means “life” or “living” in French. The name reflects respect for nature —an important value long cherished in Japan, where food is regarded as receiving life —while expressing the desire to enrich the lives of each passenger. The plural form “vies” was chosen to represent this idea. When read in reverse, “vies” reads as “Seibu,” creating a subtle narrative connection. Together with the subtitle “Fine Dining Train,” the name expresses a special dining stage where multiple lives meet and resonate through a refined culinary experience.

Logo design concept

The organic curve of the letter “s” and the underline extending from it represent the train’s distinctive form. The word “vie,” meaning “life,” “living,” and “vitality” in French, is incorporated into the design, symbolizing both rich cuisine and the passengers themselves. Rather than speed or efficiency, the logo embodies a leisurely and indulgent experience, creating a space that gently envelops its guests. The underline extending from right to left subtly alludes to the reverse reading of “vies” as “Seibu.”

Seibu Railway’s restaurant train

Hitachi has supported Seibu Railway’s restaurant train initiative through close collaboration with the company, including “Fifty Two Seats of Happiness ,” which has been in operation as a full - service restaurant train since April 17, 2016, following the refurbishment of Seibu Railway’s 4000 series rolling stock. Designed by architect Kengo Kuma , the exterior and interior of the train are inspired by Chichibu , one of the region’s most prominent tourist destinations. The exterior dynamically incorporates motifs of the Arakawa River flowing through the natural landscape, while the interior features traditional Chichibu Meisen textiles and l ocally sourced Nishikawa timber . The train operates mainly on weekends and holidays between Ikebukuro / Seibu - Shinjuku and Seibu - Chichibu stations, and is scheduled to mark its 10th anniversary in April 2026 .

Seibu Railway 001 series limited express train “Laview”

Hitachi manufactured the Seibu Railway 001 series limited express train “Laview,” positioned as Seibu Railway’s flagship train for the future, which debuted on March 16, 2019 . The name “Laview” combines the concepts of “L” for a luxurious living -like space, “a” for arrow -like speed, and “view” for the expansive scenery visible through its large windows . The train embodies the aspiration to provide passengers with an enjoyable limited express journey that gently blends into both urban and natural landscapes.

About Hitachi Rail

Hitachi Rail is committed to driving the transition to sustainable mobility and has a clear focus on partnering with customers to rethink mobility. Its mission is to help every passenger, customer, and community enjoy the benefits of more connected, smooth , and sustainable transportation.

With a turnover of more than €7 billion and 24,000 employees in more than 50 countries, Hitachi Rail is a reliable partner for the world's best transport companies. The company's presence is global, but the company is local, with success based on developing local talent and investing in people and communities. Its international expertise and experience covers every part of urban ecosystems, main lines and freight railways, from high - quality production and maintenance of rolling stock to digital signalling, payment systems and smart operations. Hitachi Rail, famous for Japan's iconic high -speed train, leverages the digital and artificial intelligence expertise of Hitachi Group companies to accelerate innovation and develop new technologies.

For more information, visit the hitachirail.com

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi contributes to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. Hitachi operates globally in four sectors – Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries – and the Strategic SIB Business Unit for new growth businesses. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi generates value from integrating data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY 2024 (ended March 31, 2025) totaled 9,783.3 billion yen, with 618 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 280,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com.