News

Toyota Motor Corp has decided to postpone the construction of a lithium-ion battery factory in Fukuoka Prefecture due to lower-than-anticipated demand for electric vehicles and increased construction costs. The automaker is also reassessing its production timeline for next-generation EVs, including a delay in the release of its first next-gen Lexus sedan model, to ensure quality control over new technologies.

AIREC, an AI-driven humanoid robot, demonstrates its potential as a future caregiver for Japan's aging population, offering assistance with tasks like changing diapers and preventing bedsores. However, challenges remain in developing robots that can safely interact with humans and provide personalized care, with AIREC not expected to be ready for use in nursing facilities until around 2030.

A new vending machine that generates electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen was unveiled at the Osaka Kansai Expo, offering drinks powered by hydrogen cartridges. The machine, developed by Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan Inc. and Fuji Electric Co., operates with zero carbon emissions and reduced electricity consumption compared to conventional machines.

Alaskan representatives are traveling to Japan to pitch a $44 billion natural gas project that aims to export LNG to Asia, a venture backed by President Trump but met with caution from Japanese energy firms due to economic and technical concerns. The project, which includes a 1,300-km pipeline and ambitious production plans, remains uncertain as investors and partners assess its long-term financial and operational viability.

At the LDP convention, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba called for cohesion and personal sacrifice among party members to win crucial upcoming elections despite recent setbacks. Ishiba also outlined plans to revitalize the party through reforms in economic policy, constitutional revisions, and a stronger U.S. alliance, while acknowledging public disillusionment with politics following past scandals.