Forval Partners with SMAS to Promote EV Adoption for SMEs in Japan

Forval and SMAS Collaboration

In an effort to advance towards a decarbonized society, Forval Inc., a company known for its vision of creating a new world under the slogan "new normal," has entered into a collaboration with Sumitomo Mitsui Auto Service (SMAS). This partnership aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Japan by encouraging the transition of company vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) and optimizing gasoline vehicles through simulations.

Background and Purpose of the Partnership

While large corporations have made significant strides in implementing ESG management and decarbonization, many SMEs still lag behind in these efforts. The Japanese government has set a goal of achieving 100% electric vehicle sales by 2035 as part of its strategy to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. However, feedback from SMEs reveals several concerns: inadequate infrastructure, high initial costs, misalignment with regional characteristics, skepticism about the timing of EV adoption, and uncertainty about how to start.

Moreover, rising energy costs and changing economic conditions further complicate the challenges for SMEs, necessitating support not only for vehicle electrification but also for broader financial and organizational transformations. Recognizing these challenges, Forval is teaming up with SMAS to provide comprehensive support for the electrification of company vehicles and the optimization of gasoline vehicle usage.

Details of the Initiative

The collaboration aims to combine the value offerings of SMAS, a sustainable mobility platform provider, with Forval's tailored support for SMEs. SMAS will offer solutions that encompass vehicle leasing proposals, simulation tools for vehicle replacements, and vehicle management applications. In addition, Forval's expertise in guided consultancy, alongside environmental consulting from its group company, Apple Tree, will provide multifaceted support for SMEs venturing into decarbonization.

The initiative goes beyond merely supporting EV introductions; it also includes a wide range of environmental solutions such as solar power generation, solar carports, net-zero energy buildings (ZEB), energy management systems (EMS), and LED lighting. These solutions aim to contribute not only to lower emissions but also to business continuity planning (BCP) and the creation of disaster-resistant communities.

Tools will be provided to visualize vehicle fuel efficiency, emissions, and costs, aiding companies in improving both their financial and non-financial performance. Through these efforts, significant cost reductions and decreases in CO₂ emissions can be achieved, thereby enhancing corporate value and positively impacting local communities.

Going forward, SMAS will tackle mobility issues through its MaaS apps and one-stop EV services. Meanwhile, the Forval Group will expedite the creation of a "new normal" to foster value generation towards a sustainable society.

About Forval Inc.

Forval Inc. (Ticker: 8275), founded in 1980 and headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, is a collective of next-generation management consultants known as "Corporate Doctors." These professionals provide specialized consulting services focused on five areas: information and communications, overseas projects, environmental initiatives, human resources and education, and entrepreneurship and business succession.

In alignment with the government's four driving forces—Green, Digital, Vital Local Development, and Measures for Declining Birthrate—Forval collaborates with municipalities, private enterprises, educational institutions, and financial organizations throughout Japan. The aim is to nurture digital transformation (DX) and green transformation (GX) talent to revitalize local economies and foster a sustainable model of regional development known as the "F-Japan" initiative. This program focuses on making ESG management visible, especially as it pertains to human capital, which is gaining increasing importance in contemporary business.

For further details, please visit Forval's official website.