#Japan #Tokyo #Andy Kondo #IAA Transportation #Innovation Analyst

Seminar on the Future of Commercial Vehicles

On October 15, 2026, innovation analyst Andy Kondo will lead a seminar titled "The Future of Commercial Vehicles and Related Industries: How Will They Change?" This event aims to explore the evolving landscape of commercial transportation through the lenses of autonomous driving, energy transition, the presence of Chinese companies, and European regulations shaping logistics.

Seminar Details

The seminar will take place from 10 AM to 12 PM at the SSK seminar room, located at 2-6-2 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, in the Zaimax Nishi-Shinbashi Building, 4th floor. Attendees can choose to participate in person or tune in via live broadcast on Zoom. For those unable to attend in real-time, an archive will be available for two weeks, allowing participants to view the sessions at their convenience.

Background of the Seminar

From September 15 to 20, 2026, Hannover, Germany, will host IAA Transportation 2026, Europe’s largest commercial vehicle exhibition. This biennial event brings together over 1,400 exhibitors and attracts approximately 130,000 visitors from 97 countries. The exhibition covers a wide range of commercial vehicles, including trucks and buses, along with the components, energy solutions, and software that power them. This year's theme, "We Deliver," prompts a critical discussion about how carbon neutrality in transportation and logistics can be achieved.

Kondo, who has extensively observed global exhibitions such as CES and Hannover Messe, will share insights based on his field research. Key discussion points will include:

1. The Role of Autonomous Driving in Commercial Vehicles: In previous years, autonomous driving was overshadowed by decarbonization efforts. However, recent advancements in AI suggest a shift in this balance, particularly with the potential for automated long-haul transportation.
2. Energy Transition in Large Vehicles: The seminar will investigate how various energy types—battery electric vehicles (BEVs), hydrogen, and alternative fuels—are being assessed for specific applications in large commercial vehicles. Kondo will discuss the progress made and the essential infrastructure required to facilitate these changes.
3. Selling Transportation Instead of Vehicles: We'll also explore how businesses are transitioning from merely selling vehicles to offering comprehensive transportation solutions, including total cost of ownership (TCO), fleet management services, and data sharing.
4. The Ascension of Chinese Players: With significant advances in the EV sector, Chinese companies are increasingly making their mark in the commercial vehicle space. Kondo will analyze their current standing and technological offerings.
5. Urban Market Dynamics: The impact of regulations on internal combustion engine vehicles entering urban areas will be addressed, highlighting the demand for electric buses and delivery vehicles.

The seminar will conclude with a Q&A session and opportunity for networking through business card exchanges.

About SSK

Founded on December 6, 1996, SSK has been conducting around 500 corporate business seminars annually for over 28 years. Aimed at providing high-level strategic information and insights in today's diversifying business environment, SSK serves as a strategic partner, continuously delivering cutting-edge information and solutions necessary for business success.

For inquiries, please contact:
New Society System Research Institute (SSK)
2-6-2 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Zaimax Nishi-Shinbashi Building, 4th Floor
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 03-5532-8850
Fax: 03-5532-8851
Website: SSK Website