#Japan #Chitose #Chitose City #Mitsubishi Auto Lease #Zero Carbon City

Mitsubishi Auto Lease Partners with Chitose City for Carbon Neutrality

Mitsubishi Auto Lease Corporation has made a significant move by partnering with Chitose City, Hokkaido, to spearhead the city's efforts toward becoming a "Zero Carbon City" by 2050. Their strategy involves converting a portion of the city's fleet to next-generation vehicles, thereby bolstering decarbonization efforts and enhancing business continuity plans (BCP) through digital transformation of vehicle management.

Background and Purpose of the Initiative

Chitose City, under the leadership of Mayor Ryuichi Yokota, has been actively working on reducing carbon emissions from its public vehicles and upgrading its vehicle management systems to a digital format. However, the city faced challenges in developing and implementing a long-term environmental action plan. This prompted the collaboration with Mitsubishi Auto Lease to address these issues effectively.

Overview of the Initiative

The partnership aims to implement three key strategies:

1. Reduction of CO2 Emissions Through Vehicle Modernization

• - The initiative targets the conversion of 35 out of 95 public vehicles to next-generation models. This includes electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) that can generate power during disasters.
• - By selecting appropriate vehicle types for various usage scenarios and equipping each with external power supply capabilities, these vehicles will serve as emergency power sources during crises.

2. Installation of EV Charging Stations

• - As the city transitions to next-generation vehicles, strategically located EV charging stations will be installed.
• - To manage costs effectively, an energy management service will be implemented to control electricity contracts within the public vehicle parking areas, ensuring low electricity expenses.

3. Digital Transformation and Efficiency in Vehicle Management

• - Leveraging Mitsubishi Auto Lease's telematics services, the initiative will digitize operational records, moving away from paper-based systems toward a more efficient and organized vehicle management process.
• - Additionally, business process outsourcing (BPO) services will be introduced to further streamline vehicle management operations.

Ceremony for the Presentation of Replica Keys

• - On November 25, 2025, a special ceremony will take place where replica keys will be presented to Chitose City. Mayor Yokota is expected to be present at this significant event, marking a crucial step in the partnership.

Overview of Chitose City

On February 7, 2022, Chitose City declared its commitment to achieving a carbon-neutral society by pledging to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to nearly zero by 2050. The city is focused on various initiatives to promote:
1. The adoption of renewable energy
2. Energy efficiency
3. Sustainable urban development
4. Creation of a circular economy
5. Conservation of its rich natural environment
6. Raising environmental awareness

Company Profile: Mitsubishi Auto Lease

Mitsubishi Auto Lease is a comprehensive solutions provider specializing in vehicle leasing and maintenance services. With a focus on sustainability, the company is particularly dedicated to supporting customers' efforts toward decarbonization and carbon neutrality through the introduction of electric vehicles and innovative EV solutions.

• - Company Name: Mitsubishi Auto Lease Corporation
• - Address: 5-33-11 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Tamachi Tower
• - CEO: Naoya Takai
• - Company Website

This partnership symbolizes a crucial step toward not only achieving Chitose City’s environmental goals but also enhancing operational efficiency and disaster preparedness through modern technology and sustainable practices.