With the fierce competition for the development of EV = electric vehicles and FCV = fuel cell vehicles toward the realization of a carbon-free society, an exhibition that gathers the latest technologies related to vehicle materials and batteries has started in Yokohama City.
This exhibition was held at Pacifico Yokohama in Nishi-ku, Yokohama for the first time in three years, and about 500 companies including domestic and foreign automobile and parts manufacturers are exhibiting.
Of these, Asahi Kasei, a chemical manufacturer, produced a prototype EV to appeal its technological capabilities.
Since EV extends the distance that can be traveled on a single charge, weight reduction is an issue, but this car has the upper half of the car body covered with transparent plastic that has been made more durable by special technology. It means that it can be reduced in weight by about 10% compared to the case of using glass.
Honda is also exhibiting a new "fuel cell" that uses hydrogen to generate electricity.
By sharing parts for gasoline engine cars, we have reduced manufacturing costs, and we are aiming to use them not only in cars but also in trucks and ships.
French auto parts makers are also exhibiting the latest motor systems for EVs.
Mr. Norihisa Kawamura, the secretary of the Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan, said, "There are many issues toward electrification of vehicles, but I hope this will be an opportunity for various industries to collaborate newly."
This exhibition is open until the 27th.