TOKYO (ANN/THE JAPAN NEWS) Three of Japan’s automotive giants—Toyota Motor Corp, Honda Motor Co, and Nissan Motor Co—have forged a strategic alliance to boost collaboration in developing in-car software, as revealed by the source.
This partnership aims to set standardised specifications for crucial car computer functions, such as controlling window operations and wiper movements, creating a unified software framework.
Suzuki Motor Corp is also joining the race, partnering with leading chipmakers and communications firms to develop autonomous driving software and mapping systems, aiming for completion within fiscal 2024.
The urgency for such alliances stems from the need to compete against technological advances by US and Chinese automakers, pushing Japanese companies to fast-track their efforts in the field of automotive software.
Executives from these automotive firms, along with representatives from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, are expected to outline their vision at the Japan Mobility Show (formerly the Tokyo Motor Show) this Thursday, held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba City.
A key aspect of this collaboration is the creation of a standardised platform for application programming interfaces (API), which will serve as a common framework connecting software with other vehicle systems.
This initiative will allow software developed by each of the three automakers to be compatible, opening doors for third-party software developers to contribute.
The move is set to enhance Japan’s competitive edge by simplifying software integration and development across different vehicle brands.
Central to this initiative is the Ministry’s push for the development of Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs). These next-gen cars, which can be updated with new features and improved capabilities through internet-based software updates, represent a significant shift in automotive technology.
To support this, the ministry plans to introduce a new “Mobility DX Platform,” bringing together major automakers to foster innovation in SDVs. Toyota, Honda, and Nissan are also exploring future collaboration in autonomous driving technologies as part of this effort.
Recognising the growing importance of software in vehicle development, the ministry is placing a strong emphasis on cultivating talent. It plans to integrate SDV expertise into its guidelines for digital skills development, aiming to equip the next generation of engineers with the knowledge needed for this digital transition.
Collaborations with universities and educational institutions will be strengthened, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled professionals in automotive software.
The global competition in the SDV sector has intensified, with the United States and China taking an early lead. American EV giant Tesla Inc pioneered SDV technology, creating a business model that generates revenue even after the initial sale of a vehicle.
Meanwhile, China has focused on standardising APIs in its automotive industry since 2021, spurring rapid advancements in the field.
Japan’s government is acutely aware of the need to keep pace, having introduced a digitalisation strategy for the automotive sector in May. The goal is ambitious—Japan aims to capture a 30 per cent share of the global SDV market, driven by enhanced collaboration among domestic companies.
As software becomes increasingly central to the performance of next-generation vehicles, Japan’s strategy hinges on a unified approach between the public and private sectors to reclaim its standing in the global market.
The policy details and strategic direction will be further outlined at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show, as industry leaders and government officials shed light on Japan’s roadmap for the future of automotive technology.
