London, July 15, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi Rail has been awarded the prestigious EcoVadis Platinum Medal, placing the company among the top 1% of businesses assessed globally by EcoVadis over the past 12 months.

This recognition highlights the strength and maturity of Hitachi Rail’s sustainability management system and reflects the company’s continued commitment to responsible business practices, environmental stewardship, ethical conduct, and supply chain transparency.

The EcoVadis Platinum Medal is the highest level of recognition granted by EcoVadis, one of the world’s most trusted providers of business sustainability ratings. The assessment evaluates companies across four key areas: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement.

“Sustainability is not an ambition alongside business – it is increasingly integrated into how business creates value. Achieving EcoVadis Platinum reflects the progress we are making in embedding sustainability into the way we operate, make decisions, and manage risk. It also reflects the commitment of colleagues across our business who are strengthening performance, building resilience, and creating value every day,” said Dr. Maiya Shibasaki, Chief Sustainability Officer. 

As a global leader in sustainable transportation solutions, Hitachi Rail continues to invest in innovation that supports the transition to low-carbon mobility, helping cities and regions reduce emissions while improving connectivity and quality of life.

The Platinum Medal also underscores Hitachi Rail’s commitment to transparency and responsible practices across its value chain. By working closely with suppliers and stakeholders, the company promotes high sustainability standards throughout its operations and business relationships, reinforcing its ambition to contribute to a more sustainable future through innovative rail technologies, digital solutions, and environmentally responsible transportation systems.

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT(Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi aims to be a global leader in continuously transforming social infrastructure through digital, contributing to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. 

Hitachi operates worldwide across four sectors – Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries – as well as a Strategic SIB Business Unit focused on new growth areas. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi creates value by combining data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. 

Revenues for FY2025 (ended March 31, 2026) totaled 10,586.7 billion yen, with 606 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 290,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com.

About Lumada

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 signaling, 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 hitachirail.com

Contract Signing Ceremony

TOKYO, July 2, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has signed a contract with Taiwan High Speed Rail Corporation (THSRC), the operator of the Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) network, for maintenance tools and equipment for the Yanchao Main Workshop in southern Taiwan. The Yanchao Main Workshop is a facility for maintenance and inspection of trains owned by THSRC. For this project, MHI will deliver, install, and conduct testing and commissioning of maintenance tools and equipment for the Yanchao Main Workshop.

THSRC is currently introducing the new N700ST series trains, with commercial operation scheduled to begin in the second half of 2027. This project aims to strengthen the maintenance system in line with the introduction of the new N700ST series trains, contributing to further improvements in the THSR network's transportation services.

Since its inauguration in 2007, the THSR network has been widely utilized as core transportation infrastructure in Taiwan. Annual ridership has increased significantly from about 15 million at the time of opening to approximately 82 million in 2025. Currently, the network serves an average of approximately 230,000 passengers per day, and its cumulative ridership has surpassed 1 billion, playing a vital role in supporting economic activity and mobility in Taiwan.

The THSR Core System Supply Contract was awarded in 2000 to a consortium of seven Japanese companies, including MHI, and commercial operations commenced in January 2007. Since the inauguration, MHI has contributed to the development of the THSR network through involvement in such projects as the Nangang Extension Project and the Trackwork and Core System for the Zuoying Depot. This project reflects recognition of MHI's longstanding track record and technical expertise.

Going forward, MHI will continue to leverage its technology and expertise in transportation systems and project management capabilities to contribute to the further development of the THSR network, and the realization of safe and reliable service.

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.

NEW YORK, July 2, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi Rail has successfully completed the acquisition of Clever Devices, a leading U.S.-based provider of Intelligent Transportation Systems for transit agencies around the world.

Clever Devices is recognized for its pioneering technology solutions that enhance fleet management, passenger experience and operational efficiency for mass transit agencies. The company has offices across the United States, Europe and South America.

The acquisition of a company with deep digital expertise and projected 2026 revenues of over $220 million enables Hitachi Rail to reflect the increasing demand for more integrated transportation systems. With completion of the transaction, Hitachi Rail extends its footprint beyond rail into multimodal mobility and further strengthens its presence in North America.

With over 600 employees and a customer base that includes 8 of the 10 largest North American transit agencies, Clever Devices has a strong track record of innovation and delivery. Its Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solutions are a critical enabler of increased public transport usage, improving the accuracy of information and boosting service punctuality. These solutions are deployed across public mobility systems, including buses as well as railways. In addition to its strong North American presence, Clever Devices has achieved substantial growth in markets such as Brazil and Chile, as well as in Europe, including Italy.

Clever Devices portfolio of onboard and centralised data solutions augments Hitachi's HMAX Mobility suite of physical AI solutions, bringing enhanced functionality and benefits for customers across public transport systems globally.

HMAX for Rail sits as part of HMAX Mobility ​ and is Hitachi Rail's digital asset management platform that optimizes railway performance by connecting data from fleets of trains, signalling assets and infrastructure to create an operational twin of rail systems. It combines advanced sensor technology, rail expertise, AI and edge computing to maximize performance, extend asset life and optimize costs.

Giuseppe Marino, Group CEO, Hitachi Rail, said:​

"This is a key step in advancing our strategy to drive the digital transformation of public transport. We are combining Clever Devices' strong capabilities in intelligent transportation systems with our global reach and HMAX Mobility suite of solutions. With this acquisition, we are broadening our scope beyond rail, strengthening our footprint in North America, and laying the platform to help cities develop more integrated, sustainable and efficient transportation networks."

As part of the integration, where he led the launch of Hitachi's Industrial AI portfolio. As CEO, Frank will focus on accelerating growth, strengthening market positioning and driving long-term value creation for the Clever Devices business.

Frank Antonysamy, CEO, Clever Devices, a Hitachi Group Company, said:​

"Joining Clever Devices at this important moment is a great opportunity. As part of Hitachi Rail, we are well positioned to leverage Hitachi's investments in HMAX and more than 115 years of OT expertise, to accelerate innovation, expand our global reach and deliver enhanced value to transit agencies and passengers through our advanced digital mobility solutions"

Hitachi Rail's growing footprint in North America is underlined by recent investments including the $110m opening of its digital factory in Hagerstown, Maryland, and a CA$30m investment in a new Canadian headquarters.

Hitachi Rail collaborated with SSIB, Hitachi's Strategic Social Innovation Business Unit, on the acquisition, supporting the One Hitachi initiative and creating further opportunities across the mobility sector. The business will also benefit from the wider digital expertise of Hitachi Group companies, including Hitachi Digital, GlobalLogic and Hitachi Digital Services.

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi aims to be a global leader in continuously transforming social infrastructure through digital , contributing to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. Hitachi operates worldwide across four sectors - Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries - as well as a Strategic SIB Business Unit focused on new growth areas . With Lumada at its core, Hitachi creates value by combining data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY 202 5 (ended March 31, 202 6 ) totaled 10,586 .7 billion yen, with 6 06 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 2 9 0,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com .

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 signaling, 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 hitachirail.com 

TOKYO // TAIPEI, July 1, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - JCB International Co., Ltd., the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., Japan’s only international payment brand, and JCB International (Taiwan) Co., Ltd., announced the launch of JCB contactless payment acceptance on the Taipei Metro.

The Taipei Metro, which commenced operations in 1996, is a major urban mass transit system connecting Taipei City and New Taipei City. The network consists of multiple lines with a total length of over 100 kilometers and numerous stations serving key areas. It is widely used for daily commuting as well as by tourists. Along its routes are many of Taiwan’s iconic attractions, including Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, Ximending, and the Shilin Night Market, making it an essential transportation option for both residents and visitors.

With the introduction of JCB contactless payment on the Taipei Metro, JCB Cardmembers can simply tap their contactless JCB Cards or compatible devices at ticket gates to ride. This eliminates the need to purchase tickets or reload transit cards, providing a smoother and more seamless travel experience.

In Taiwan, JCB contactless payments are already available not only on the Taipei Metro (including the Circular Line of New Taipei Metro) but also on the Kaohsiung Metro, Taoyuan Metro, and Taichung Metro.

JCB contactless payments are increasingly being adopted across public transportation systems worldwide, contributing to improved convenience for both daily travel and tourism. JCB will continue to promote cashless solutions in the transportation sector and strive to expand usage scenarios while enhancing customer convenience.

About JCB

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 72 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 181 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/

Contact
Anna Takeda
Corporate Communications
Tel: +81-3-5778-8353
Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp　

TOKYO, June 27, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has demonstrated, through analysis of the economic viability of utilizing Indian-produced green hydrogen and green ammonia in countries such as Singapore, that with optimization throughout the value chain, dramatic cost reductions can be expected. The study, titled the "Master Plan for the Optimal Facilities and Logistics Required to Export Green Hydrogen and Green Ammonia from India(1)," was conducted under the FY2023 Global South Future-Oriented Co-Creation supplementary program commissioned by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). A report(2) was published by METI.

As initiatives for decarbonization take place, there are growing expectations for green hydrogen and ammonia produced using renewable energy, but reducing the costs of full-scale implementation has been identified as an issue.

In this study, MHI analyzed the economic viability of the value chain in a scenario where green ammonia is produced in India, a country with highly cost-competitive renewable energy, and utilized for electricity and bunkering (supply of fuel to ships) in Singapore. The analysis was conducted based on production data and local information provided by cooperating partners such as Hygenco, an Indian developer of green ammonia. The results of the study indicated that if the overall value chain is optimized, dramatic cost reductions can be expected. Hygenco is also developing a green ammonia project in Odisha, India's east coast, with an annual production capacity of 1.1 million tons.

Based on the analysis results, MHI and operators in India and Singapore discussed issues that need to be resolved to realize the business opportunities for the production and utilization of this green energy. MHI also engaged with the Indian and Singaporean governments, proposing measures for production, introduction, and demand creation for green ammonia, explaining the need for a master plan to establish a value chain, and working on the formulation of the plan. MHI intends to continue discussions with the governments and business stakeholders in India and Singapore.

MHI Group will continue to contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society by supporting the promotion of decarbonization strategies and the implementation of related projects. Going forward, MHI will work closely with government agencies and businesses in Japan and overseas, focusing on areas such as the value chain for utilizing decarbonized fuels.

Overview of Study

1. Analysis method:

A model was created for the entire value chain from production to transportation, and Mixed-Integer Linear Programming(3) was used to optimize the specifications of each facility and operations in time units to minimize overall costs.

2. Execution:

• MHI analyzed the degree to which costs can be reduced in each element from production to supply, including transportation from India to Singapore, and created cost reductions measures.
• The results also indicated the possibility for cost reductions by optimization of operations through cooperation between business operators in the value chain, utilizing factors such as seasonal fluctuations in renewable energy output in India.
• MHI proposed measures to the Indian and Singaporean governments, including creation of demand for green ammonia, reduction of capital cost, support for technology development, and evaluation of green premium.

(1) METI supports projects relating to anticipated future growth industries: for example, projects aimed at building strong supply chains and realizing carbon neutrality in Global South countries, with Japanese and local businesses each applying their respective strengths. Following an open call for entries issued by Boston Consulting Group, which is undertaking this project on consignment from METI, MHI conducted a study including formulation of a plan for creating the optimal facilities needed for exporting India's green hydrogen and green ammonia.Refer to the following press release for details https://www.mhi.com/news/25100301.html
(2) The report published by METI is provided below (in Japanese only).For more information about this report, please contact [mediacontact_global@mhi.com].
https://www.meti.go.jp/policy/external_economy/cooperation/oda/r5_hosei_mpkouhyou_finalreport.html
(3) A method that numerically determines the most efficient solution in a series of variables or integer variables to accomplish a purpose under restricted conditions.

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, June 12, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) today announced that its Face Recognition Walkthrough Gate, which has been used in a field test on the Joetsu bullet train conducted with the East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and JR East Mechatronics Co., Ltd. (JREM), a leading producer of station equipment, was named "Best of the Best," the highest honor awarded at the "Red Dot Design Award 2026."

The Red Dot Design Award, established in Germany in 1955, is one of the world’s largest product design awards. It attracts approximately 20,000 entries annually from over 60 countries and regions. Among these, the Best of the Best award, given to only about 1% of all entries, is a highly honorable distinction reserved exclusively for products deemed to be setting new global standards.

About the Face Recognition Walkthrough Gate

The Face Recognition Walkthrough Gate utilizes NEC’s world-leading face recognition technology (*) to ensure secure identity verification. Face recognition allows users to enter and exit smoothly without using IC cards or other devices. Furthermore, since the face recognition system can be easily installed with existing ticket gates, it can be quickly and effectively implemented.

Reasons for the award

- Creating a new passenger experience: User Experience Design utilizing the world’s No. 1 face recognition technology
- Low-profile, flat design with no protrusions: A design that widens the field of view and prioritizes the safety of users and the area around the ticket gates
- Ease of Installation: A sustainable design that is easily installed with existing infrastructure

Going forward, NEC will continue to promote the creation of solutions that actively incorporate advanced technologies, with the goal of realizing walkthrough ticket gates that allow a wide variety of people to enter and exit smoothly.

(*) NEC ranked No.1 numerous times in face recognition vendor tests conducted by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Evaluation results do not represent recommendations by the U.S. government for specific products.
NEC Press Release: "NEC Face Recognition Ranks First in NIST Accuracy Testing"
https://www.nec.com/en/press/202603/global_20260309_02.html

About NEC

The NEC Group leverages technology to create social value and promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. NEC Corporation was established in 1899. Today, the NEC Group’s approximately 110,000 employees utilize world-leading AI, security, and communications technologies to solve the most pressing needs of customers and society. For more information, please visit https://www.nec.com.

Hiroshima and Tokyo, Japan, June 3, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Mazda Motor Corporation (Mazda) and Nippon Express Co., Ltd., a group company of NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, INC., have launched a demonstration trial using biodiesel fuel (HVO*1) for finished vehicle transport trailers, starting in May 2026.

Mazda is aiming to achieve carbon neutrality (CN) across its entire supply chain by 2050, while the NX Group is working toward the realization of a carbon-neutral society by 2050 and contributing to environmental conservation. Through this demonstration trial, the two companies seek to explore the potential contribution to decarbonization in the logistics for finished vehicles and parts, while also promoting the social implementation of alternative fuels.

This demonstration trial is conducted between Hofu’s Nishinoura district plant and Nakanoseki finished vehicle yard (approximately 12 km round trip) through the end of fiscal year 2026. It will evaluate fuel efficiency, performance, and operational challenges, while accumulating insights for future expansion. The biodiesel fuel will be procured by NX Shoji Co., Ltd., and the two trailers used in the demonstration trial will be operated under conditions equivalent to those of conventional diesel fuel, including maintenance and inspection practices, with the cooperation of Isuzu Motors Limited.

Going forward, in addition to logistics companies and vehicle manufacturers, Mazda will collaborate with fuel suppliers and regionally rooted businesses to expand demand, enhance supply systems and infrastructure, and build a sustainable environment for the long-term use of HVO.

Biodiesel Fuel Demonstration Trial

Kazuhiko Sumi, Director, Corporate Leadership Executive Officer and Chief Supply Chain Officer

(CSCO,) Mazda Motor Corporation, commented: “We consider it highly meaningful to work together with Nippon Express Co., Ltd. on this demonstration using HVO. By steadily accumulating insights on fuel efficiency, performance, and operational aspects through real-world operations, and by collaborating with regional partners, we will further promote the practical application and expansion of this initiative.

Osamu Sasaki, Executive Officer, Head of Mobility Business Sales Division, Nippon Express Co., Ltd. commented: We are honored to participate as a logistics partner in Mazda’s carbon neutrality initiative and to engage in this HVO-based demonstration. Leveraging our expertise in finished vehicle logistics, we will carefully evaluate the impact of fuel switching on transport quality and operations, and contribute to the realization of sustainable logistics and decarbonization of the entire supply chain.

Building on this demonstration trial, the two companies will expand the circle of like-minded partners and advance decarbonization across the supply chain.

[Reference]

Related News Releases

* Mazda Updates Roadmap for Achieving Carbon Neutrality
https://newsroom.mazda.com/en/publicity/release/2025/202509/250930a.html

Related Information

MAZDA Corporate Website:

* TCFD | ENVIRONMENT | SUSTAINABILITY | MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION GLOBAL WEBSITE
https://www.mazda.com/en/sustainability/environment/tcfd/
* CLIMATE CHANGE (ENDEAVORING TOWARD CARBON NEUTRALITY BY 2050) | ENVIRONMENT | SUSTAINABILITY | MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION GLOBAL WEBSITE
https://www.mazda.com/en/sustainability/environment/climate-change/

MAZDA MIRAI BASE:

* ARTICLES | MAZDA MIRAI BASE | MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION GLOBAL WEBSITE
https://www.mazda.com/en/mazda-mirai-base/articles/list/

*1 In this demonstration trial, the fuel used consists of a blend of approximately 51% HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil, renewable diesel fuel derived from waste cooking oil and vegetable oils.)