- Foxconn plans to launch its Model T and Model U electric buses in Japan by 2027, expanding its EV footprint.
- Foxconn is in discussions with Mitsubishi Fuso for parts supply and local EV bus collaboration in Japan.
The IT behemoth Foxconn and several smaller Taiwanese electric bus producers are preparing to join Japan's cutthroat electric vehicle (EV) bus industry, marking a new stage of global growth and cooperation between the two East Asian nations.
Foxconn, a well-known supplier to Apple and a growing manufacturer of electric vehicles, has stated that it intends to introduce the Model T electric bus and the smaller Model U microbus in Japan by 2027.
Building on a prior Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mitsubishi Motors to co-develop electric commercial vehicles, the company is also in discussions with Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation of Japan for the supply of parts and possible local collaborations.
Foxconn's Model T has a range of more than 400 kilometres (about 249 miles) between charges, thanks in part to the significant Taiwanese government subsidies that can pay up to half the cost of qualified EV buses.
This action provides important experience for the impending Japanese rollout and underscores Taiwan's rapidly expanding domestic shift to electric buses, with 17% of local buses operating on electricity as of last year.
Master Transportation Bus Manufacturing and RAC Electric Vehicles are two other Taiwanese companies that have increased their international presence.
In order to guarantee adherence to Japanese laws and to help Japan reach its 2050 carbon neutrality goal, companies such as RAC have already provided electric buses for demonstration projects in Japan, collaborating with regional partners like Sumitomo Corporation.
Industry watchers point out that Foxconn's and other domestic companies' participation is expected to increase competitiveness in Japan's developing EV bus sector, which is already witnessing early movements from Chinese competitors.
The arrival of seasoned Taiwanese EV producers is expected to change the scene for zero-emission public transportation as Japanese cities step up their efforts to decarbonise urban mobility.
Edited by Annette George
