#Japan #Tokoname #Central Japan Airport #Three-Wheeled EV #Rental Nikken

Trial Operations of Three-Wheeled EVs at Central Japan Airport

On June 18, 2025, Central Japan International Airport, in collaboration with Rental Nikken Co., Ltd., Mitsubishi Auto Lease Co., Ltd., and Central Japan International Airport Co., Ltd., will commence trial operations of three-wheeled electric vehicles (EVs) within its restricted area. This initiative, a national first, aims to assess the practicality and efficiency of three-wheeled EVs in an environment where traditional four-wheeled vehicles may not be as maneuverable.

Background and Purpose

The use of three-wheeled vehicles in airport restricted areas became permissible in June 2024. The primary goal of this trial is to explore the possibilities of efficient vehicle operation and verify the benefits of utilizing three-wheeled EVs, particularly in terms of agility and compactness, compared to their four-wheeled counterparts. As the use of three-wheeled EVs is gaining traction among ground handling service providers, this trial will also gather valuable data on the operational needs and preferences of those involved.

In addition to this, the trial will serve as a step toward assessing whether three-wheeled EVs can become a viable option for ground transportation within the airport’s efforts toward decarbonization. The insights gained during this trial will help establish best practices in vehicle usage and facilitate knowledge-sharing about EV operation, including charging procedures.

Trial Overview

During this trial, participants will be loaned three-wheeled EVs for approximately one week to use in their normal operations. The anticipated use will focus on transport services, allowing users to experience not just the advantages of EVs – such as acceleration, environmental benefits, and cost savings – but also the unique challenges that come with them, including range and charging requirements.

Both Rental Nikken and Mitsubishi Auto Lease will systematically collect and analyze data throughout this period to confirm the utility of three-wheeled EVs and pursue the development of more user-friendly frameworks for their deployment in restricted airport areas.

Trial Details:

• - Duration: June 18, 2025 - July 31, 2025
• - Operational Area: Restricted zone of Central Japan International Airport (excluding service lanes and vehicle access paths behind spots)
• - Usage: Participating organizations will use the vehicles in their routine operations

About the Companies Involved

Rental Nikken Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1967, Rental Nikken focuses on renting machinery related to civil engineering, construction, and industry, boasting a catalog of approximately 1.2 million items across 4,700 kinds of products. The company emphasizes volunteerism in its operations and is constantly innovating products to meet the diverse needs of its customers through a network of around 250 sales locations across Japan.

Mitsubishi Auto Lease Co., Ltd.

Established in 1972, Mitsubishi Auto Lease has built a robust reputation as a leading auto leasing company within the Mitsubishi Group. It provides an array of services including corporate auto leasing and fleet management, aiming to shift from ownership to utilization in mobility services.

Central Japan International Airport Co., Ltd.

Since its founding in 1998, Central Japan International Airport Co., Ltd. has been responsible for airport and aviation security infrastructure management, passenger and cargo handling, alongside associated service facilities. With a workforce of 304 employees, the airport continues to play a critical role in facilitating air travel and commerce in the region.

Media Invitation

A press briefing regarding the three-wheeled EV trial will take place on June 17, 2025, at Central Japan International Airport. This event will offer attendees insights into the trial operations, a chance to participate in a test drive, and an overview of the vehicles utilized.

Briefing Details:

• - Date: June 17, 2025, from 12:30 to 15:00
• - Location: Central Japan International Airport
• - Format: Held on-site, without online streaming
• - Schedule:

- 12:00: Registration
- 12:30: Overview of the trial operations
- 13:30: Test drive observation
- 14:30: Q&A session

Journalists interested in attending are encouraged to submit their applications by June 12, 2025.