WHILL's Electric Mobility Platform Shines at Japan Mobility Show 2025
WHILL Inc., based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, has announced its selection as a finalist in the Startup Future Factory Pitch Contest & Awards at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 (JMS). The innovative electric mobility platform is a new venture that leverages WHILL’s established expertise in technology and engineering to develop and provide essential mobility solutions that support walking robots.
The competition, focusing on the intersection of startups and various industries, aims to foster collaboration through technology and ideas, accelerating the expansion of the mobility sector. WHILL's electric mobility platform was recognized for its potential to address pressing global issues, especially concerning labor shortages in logistics, security, and agriculture due to aging populations.
On October 31, during the finals where various presenters showcased their projects, WHILL’s project lead, Horie, took the stage to discuss the significance of their platform. Following amendments to Japan's Road Traffic Act in April 2023, public road usage for robots is now permissible. This legislative change, combined with the growing demand for robots in labor-intensive sectors, underscores the need for practical implementations of walking-area robots.
However, developing robots from scratch presents challenges such as lengthy development times, costs in the hundreds of thousands, and difficulties in ensuring stable procurement of components. WHILL’s electric mobility platform is designed with a safety-first approach, allowing for diverse customization based on user needs and expected application scenarios. This capability significantly reduces the burden of developing mobility bases, enabling customers to focus their resources on the core robot design.
Under the theme "with Mobility: Expanding Experiences and Creating New Systems," WHILL is actively pursuing collaboration with partners across various industries, including logistics, delivery, security, offices, and agriculture. The company is showcasing their solutions at the JMS, featuring not only their robot platform but also specific operational mobility examples and highlighting product characteristics.
The company aims to enrich the mobility experience globally by integrating both hardware and software, working towards its mission of making mobility enjoyable and intelligent for everyone. WHILL’s display at JMS runs from October 29 to November 9, 2025, located in the Tokyo Big Sight’s West Hall, Startup Future Factory. Interested visitors can explore the innovative work by WHILL, where they will demonstrate their adaptive mobility platform and share insights on real-world applications of their technology.
In conclusion, WHILL is dedicated to paving the way for a future where mobility solutions can tackle societal challenges and enhance the quality of life through innovative technology. With a robust agenda of showcasing their electric mobility platform, WHILL is setting a foundation for smart, inclusive growth in the mobility space, encouraging collaboration and innovation within the industry. For more details, please visit their official website.