#Japan #Tokyo #Apti #Pit Cube #Automotive Workshop

Launch of the Pit Cube

On September 19, 2025, Apti Corporation, based in Shibuya, Tokyo, announced the start of orders for its latest product, the Pit Cube. This innovative cubicle is specifically designed for automotive workshops, addressing a pressing need for effective air conditioning solutions amid recent regulatory changes concerning workplace heat stress.

Collaboration Among Experts

The Pit Cube was developed in collaboration with six leading companies in the mobility and energy sectors, namely Kagawa Electric Power Co., Daikin Airtechno Co., Power Electric Co., Takara Electronics, and DAIHEN Corporation. The introduction of this product is significant as it caters to the unique needs of automotive service locations that have faced numerous challenges due to the lack of adequate air conditioning.

Addressing Critical Issues

In June 2025, a legal reform mandated that measures against heat-related illnesses in workplaces would be enforced, increasing the urgency for automotive shops to install air conditioning systems. However, these shops have encountered persistent obstacles such as:

• - Insufficient power capacity leading to installation delays.
• - Limited space for equipment installation.
• - Extended delivery times of over six months.
• - Variability in costs resulting in unfair pricing.

Moreover, a revision of the energy conservation law indicates that workshops will soon only be able to install larger, more costly cubicles with longer lead times. To tackle these issues, the six companies came together to create the Pit Cube, the first air conditioning cubicle specifically designed for automotive workshops.

Product Details

The Pit Cube boasts several notable features:
1. Space-saving Design: Suitable for small workshop areas.
2. Standardized and Mass-Produced: Unified design and manufacturing processes.
3. Rapid Delivery: Availability for shipping within a week.
4. Cost Reduction: Economies of scale from bulk production.
5. Optimized Specifications: Tailored to the air conditioning load of workshops.
6. Easy Installation: Supported by a nationwide network of electrical contractors.

Specifications: The cubicle has a receiving power capacity of 75kVA, with dimensions of 850 mm in width, 900 mm in depth, and 1900 mm in height, weighing approximately 800 kg.

Order Information

Orders for the Pit Cube will be accepted starting September 19, 2025, with shipments expected to commence in February 2026. Due to the limited production of this specially designed unit, orders may be temporarily halted if the monthly limit is reached.
For inquiries or to place an order, please visit this link.

Background of Product Development

In light of the new regulations requiring measures for heat stress in the workplace, automotive workshops must prioritize air conditioning installation. At Apti, we recognized that many shops were facing installation delays primarily due to insufficient power capacity. Power requirements for new air conditioning units account for approximately 40–50% of total energy consumption, requiring modifications or expansions of electrical cubicles, frequently leading to lengthy delays of 6–8 months.

Changes in the Market

The challenges for workshops have intensified due to the top runner system enforced by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, which requires existing cubicles to be phased out by July 2025, with new regulations requiring cubicles that are significantly larger, more expensive, and with extended delivery timelines.

In response to these developments, we collaborated with experts from major energy and air conditioning businesses to create the Pit Cube, which addresses workshop challenges while adhering to the new regulatory standards. Our goal is to offer a comprehensive solution that includes both the Pit Cube and our air conditioning subscription service, providing an efficient and comfortable working environment for automotive workshops nationwide.

Societal Impact

The introduction of the Pit Cube goes beyond merely solving individual workshop challenges. It contributes to addressing three broader societal issues:

• - Reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses and improving working conditions for mechanics.
• - Enhancing operational efficiency and fostering employee retention.
• - Promoting energy conservation and contributing to decarbonization efforts.

Through the national rollout of the Pit Cube alongside our other initiatives, we aim to improve the working environment for mechanics while supporting the transition to an energy-efficient society.

About Apti Corporation

Founded in February 2009, Apti focuses on providing comprehensive human resource services specializing in the automotive industry. Our headquarters is located in the Ebisu Minami area of Shibuya, Tokyo. We are dedicated to supporting workforce improvements within automotive workshops while enhancing their operational efficiency and overall appeal. To learn more about our endeavors, please visit our official website at Apti.