Japanese Emerging Companies Shift Their Focus to Ultra-Compact Electric Vehicles (EVs)

16 Oct, 2023

Japanese Emerging Companies Shift Their Focus to Ultra-Compact Electric Vehicles (EVs)

In Japan, startup companies are increasingly directing their efforts toward the creation of ultra-compact electric vehicles (EVs). Several of these firms are planning to unveil single-seater prototype models at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show, previously known as the Tokyo Motor Show, scheduled to commence on October 26.

The primary objective of these startups is to raise awareness of their innovative products at the event, which is anticipated to draw up to one million visitors. Their focus is on promoting the versatile use of ultra-compact EVs, including their potential application as delivery vehicles and in other domains.

In early October, a minimalist, compact EV named "Kurosuke" underwent performance testing at a driving school in Chigasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture. Kurosuke is the brainchild of the Micro EV Technology Research Association (METAx), one of the groups participating in the Japan Mobility Show.

Hiroyuki Takemura, one of the key figures in the planning of Kurosuke, commented, "We're finally at the starting line," after approximately two years of development. Takemura and former vehicle developers from Nissan Motor Corp. joined forces to create a company dedicated to EV technology and design. METAx was established by this company in collaboration with three parts manufacturers.

Kurosuke falls under the category of a Class-1 motorized bicycle, or minicar, and is smaller than a typical light motor vehicle. The design aimed to position it just below the light motor vehicle threshold, allowing it to carry maximum cargo.

To enhance its competitiveness, especially in relation to light motor vehicles, the development team stripped away non-essential elements. As a result, the car lacks paint and rear windows.

After establishing the operational company, the team plans to outsource production to Tonox, a car body manufacturer in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Prefecture. The developers anticipate opening reservations for the new vehicle in 2025, although they are still working on securing large-lot customers and parts suppliers.

Despite these challenges, Takemura remains optimistic, stating, "We hope to find supporters of our efforts at the Japan Mobility Show."

Minicars are expected to find applications in short-distance deliveries, which have witnessed growing demand with the rise of online commerce, and as vehicles for elderly individuals during shopping trips. Minicar manufacturers have a lower barrier to entry compared to major automakers, as minicars do not require clearance under the "type designation" system associated with mass vehicle production.

Furthermore, minicars are exempt from periodic inspections, leading to reduced maintenance costs for owners in comparison to light motor vehicles. These advantages have encouraged other startups to embark on minicar development projects.

KG Motors Co., founded in Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima Prefecture last year, plans to showcase an ultra-compact EV at the Japan Mobility Show. The company's prototype vehicle is based on the idea of creating vehicles that are highly adaptable and can navigate in tight spaces.

The distinctive design, inspired by a Polaroid camera, is anticipated to capture significant attention at the event. By adopting a similar design for the car's four corners, the company was able to reduce the number of parts.

KG Motors experienced a surge in interest after sharing a development video on YouTube, and the vehicle received the second-highest number of votes in a popularity poll conducted at the Osaka Auto Messe motor show in February.

The company aims to leverage its presence at the upcoming show to bring its vehicle to the market in 2025, with a target price of ¥1 million.

Minicars have specific requirements, including a maximum speed of 60 kph, which has impeded their development among major automakers. Toyota Auto Body Co.'s Coms currently holds the largest share of the minicar market, having sold over 10,000 units since it was introduced in 2012.

Hideo Tsurumaki, who contributed to the development of Coms and founded an EV development company, remarked, "Single-seater cars have limited applications, and generating profits from them can be challenging. However, if minicars garner more attention and the market expands, I would consider producing them once again."