Japan enters the EV race

Automakers aim to catch up with rivals from China, writes Karnjana Karnjanatawe

- Karnjana Karnjanatawe

Toyota's 'Walk Me' is a four-legged autonomous chair designed to assist wheelchair users.

(KARNJANATAWE)

Japan's major automakers have unveiled a new generation of electric vehicles (EVs) at the rebranded Japan Mobility Show, marking a significant moment in the country's drive to reclaim its leadership in global mobility technology.

Honda, once seen as lagging behind its Chinese counterparts, revealed five new EV models, including a compact, a saloon and SUVs. The company confirmed the vehicles will hit the Thai and wider Asian markets in 2027 after their debut in Japan and the United Kingdom next year.

Takumi Kawabe, Executive Coordinator of Asian Honda Motor Co, admitted that the company has been late joining the EV race, but said the delay was strategic.

"Releasing the first generation was actually quite early," he said. "But we wanted to observe the market and understand the infrastructure before expanding widely. Electric vehicles have considerable potential in Asia, especially in places like Vietnam, where electrification policies are gaining momentum."

Acknowledging that Chinese EV makers are well ahead of Japanese automakers, Mr Kawabe expressed confidence in the company's ability to catch up. "We believe we can win the competition through reliability," he said.

"Our cars are designed on a life cycle basis - continuously evolving after release, maintaining value, and ensuring sustainability through battery collection and recycling."