#Japan #Minato #Tech-T #Dr. Tadayoshi Takahara #ultra-compact EVs

Exploring the Future of Ultra-Compact EVs

On September 30, 2025, a significant seminar titled "Is There a Future for Ultra-Compact EVs?" will be held, organized by Tech-T and featuring Dr. Tadayoshi Takahara, the CEO of Tech-T and a former executive at Toyota and Samsung SDI. This event will delve into the rapidly evolving market for ultra-compact electric vehicles (EVs), highlighting both their successes and the challenges they face.

Seminar Overview

The seminar will take place online via Zoom from 1 PM to 3 PM (Japan Time), ensuring accessibility for participants. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a live session or view an archive of the event for two weeks post-seminar.

Dr. Takahara, who holds a doctorate in engineering, will provide an in-depth analysis of the ultra-compact EV market, particularly comparing developments in the European Union and Japan.

Key Topics of Discussion

1. Ultra-Compact EVs in the EU

In the EU, more than 10,000 two-seater ultra-compact EVs are sold annually, with various brands offering models that can be driven without a license by individuals aged 14 to 15 and older. The seminar will showcase the Citroën AMI and similar vehicles through a test drive video, as well as insights from a detailed analysis of lightweight plastic bodywork, which is central to the vehicles' design and cost-reduction strategy.

2. Ultra-Compact EVs in Japan

Japan's approach has seen the single-seater, commonly referred to as the four-wheeled motorcycle, gain popularity in areas like milk delivery and campus transport. There will be an introduction to currently available models, including the Toyota Body (AlaCo) Coms and Toyota's C+pod. Video presentations will also cover vehicles under development, such as the KG Motors' Mibot and Aim EVM. Additionally, the seminar will discuss Japan's regulatory framework for these innovative vehicles.

3. Expansion in China and Southeast Asia

The seminar will highlight the growing prevalence of smaller EVs in Chinese local cities and across Southeast Asia, with insights into their applications and market potential.

4. Expected Use Cases

• - Serving as an accessible mode of transport for the elderly and disabled.
• - Providing an affordable and convenient new transportation option, especially in island regions.
• - Offering easy charging solutions and requiring minimal parking space.
• - Paving the way towards genuine carbon neutrality through shared use models and specialized driving capabilities.

5. Challenges and Future Outlook

The seminar will also discuss the challenges faced by the ultra-compact EV industry in Japan, such as the need for regulatory compliance, quality assurance, price competitiveness, and the incorporation of lightweight materials. Insights will reflect on the sustainability of models that have ceased production shortly after launch, highlighting a need for a more robust market strategy.

6. Q&A Session

Participants will have the chance to engage in a question-and-answer session, providing an interactive platform for discussion and clarification.

Dr. Takahara's seminar promises to be a vital resource for anyone interested in the future landscape of mobility and the role that ultra-compact EVs may play in addressing contemporary transportation needs.

For more details or to register for the seminar, visit SSK Seminar Registration.

Contact Information

For inquiries, contact the New Society System Research Institute, located in Minato, Tokyo.

• - Address: 2-6-2 Nishi-Shinbashi, Zaimax Nishi-Shinbashi Building 4F, Tokyo, Japan
• - Email: [email protected]
• - Phone: 03-5532-8850
• - Fax: 03-5532-8851
• - Website: SSK21