Wednesday, January 24, 2018, 12:00 - 14:00
“The 20th anniversary of the Toyota Prius and the Future of Eco-Cars”
Language:The speech and Q & A will be in English.
The Toyota Prius, the world's first mass-produced hybrid car, turned 20 in December. Since the car's 1997 launch, Japan has been at the forefront of hybrid and electric vehicle developments as nearly two out of three "electrified" cars ever sold, both full-electrics and hybrids, are Japanese.
But the Japanese industry's preeminent position is being challenged by the emergence of China as the leading manufacturer of pure-electric cars, the rise of Tesla as the most visible EV brand and the prospect of more stringent emission standards in Europe following the Volkswagen diesel scandal as European carmakers try to "outgreen" each other. Advances in battery technology are also putting the Japanese on guard as China rises to become the world's leading producer of lithium batteries.
We have invited two of Japan's top analysts to discuss the global industry's move into electrification and what it means for Japanese automakers and their suppliers. We have asked our guests to help separate the hype from the reality of electrification.
Koji Endo of SBI Securities Co. has covered the industry for more than 30 years, including eight at Nomura Securities.Chris Richter has followed automotive developments for 20 years, beginning with HSBC Securities and Merrill Lynch before moving to CLSA.
Both Endo and Richter know their stuff. If you have any questions about other automotive subjects, including self-driving technology, NAFTA and new industry alliances, please ask them on this occasion.
Please reserve in advance, 3211-3161 or on the website(still & TV cameras inclusive). The charge for members/members' guest is 1,750/2,700 yen; non-members eligible to attend may pay in cash by e mail reservation (front@fccj.or.jp). (Menu: grilled salmon with herb.) Reservations canceled less than one hour in advance for working press members, and 24 hours for all others, will be charged in full. Reservations and cancellations are not complete without confirmation. For meal service, please enter the room by 12:25.
Professional Activities Committee
Koji Endo Christopher Richter