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Collaborative Efforts of Daigas Group and SMAS in EV Utilization

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Daigas Group and Sumitomo Mitsui Auto Service (SMAS) have entered into a memorandum to commence collaborative efforts aimed at creating new values through the utilization of electric vehicles (EVs). This partnership, which began its in-depth studies in June 2026, seeks to align the optimization of EV operations and electricity costs with innovative services. Additionally, the collaboration aims to enhance the value of EVs through the utilization of battery degradation diagnosis services provided by Daigas Group's subsidiary, KRI.

Japan is advancing towards a carbon-neutral future by 2050, with a strong push for the adoption of EVs. This includes the anticipated growth of the reused EV market. However, expanding the use of renewable energy sources brings challenges, particularly concerning the balance of electricity supply and demand throughout the day. Given that EVs serve as both modes of transport and energy storage units, they present a dual opportunity to address mobility and energy concerns, creating new blended values through optimized charging schedules and accurate battery performance evaluations.

The Daigas Group has been fostering the development of technologies and services that contribute to a low-carbon and decarbonized society. Their initiatives include combining EV chargers with energy management systems, undertaking proof-of-concept studies, and developing technologies for assessing EV battery degradation. SMAS, recognized for owning a leading fleet of lease vehicles, is committed to promoting the adoption of EVs, operated with a philosophy of being synonymous with electric vehicles in the industry. Their efforts include expanding re-use EV initiatives in partnership with local governments, focusing on long-term usage and value enhancement.

Joint Objectives of the Collaboration

The partnership connects Daigas Group’s experience in energy management and battery diagnostics with SMAS's expertise in EV services aimed at businesses and municipalities. By utilizing vehicle reservation data managed by SMAS alongside Daigas's energy management insights, they plan to provide enterprises with solutions that maximize the benefits of EV adoption while managing electricity costs effectively.

1. Collaboration for Optimal EV Operation and Cost Control

In many businesses, effective EV integration hinges on minimizing electricity costs, especially during peak times. The project will investigate charging management strategies that avoid interference with vehicle operation while maximizing use of off-peak energy prices. Thus, SMAS will share vehicle utilization reservation insights with Daigas, creating a service that effectively balances vehicle use with cost-efficient energy consumption.

2. Enhancing Reused EV Values through Battery Diagnosis

With EV batteries known to degrade due to repeated charging and discharge cycles influenced by usage conditions, determining the state of battery health is crucial yet often difficult. Daigas Group’s battery diagnosis technology, capable of evaluating battery degradation based on limited data from quick charging sessions, will be applied to the EVs managed by SMAS to promote fair pricing and increase public trust in reused EVs. This collaboration marks a significant step toward ensuring the broader adoption of reused EVs by alleviating concerns over performance and lifespan.

Continuing to leverage their respective strengths, Daigas Group and SMAS are focused on creating innovative services that address societal challenges while elevating the value of electric vehicles, benefiting the environment and enhancing sustainable practices.

In closing, this strategic partnership signifies an important move towards optimizing the operational dynamics of EVs while contributing to broader energy sustainability goals. Both companies are committed to harnessing their expertise to pioneer solutions that not only facilitate the transition to electrification but also promote a greener, more efficient future for mobility in Japan.