In January 2024, the CCIFJ, in partnership with the Pôle Véhicule du Futur (Future Vehicle Cluster) organized a study week in Japan for a delegation of 15 French companies, focused on the themes of hydrogen and batteries.
Over five days, participants had the opportunity to meet with six key companies in the mobility and energy sectors (such as Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Yamaha Motor Company, Nissan…), as well as three renowned Japanese laboratories conducting research in these fields (such as the University of Tokyo). Two networking events, one in Osaka and one in Tokyo, including one hosted by Mr. Takashi Yatabe, director of the hydrogen department at TEPCO, which further enriched these discussions. Finally, the mission concluded with a seminar at the French Embassy in Japan, dedicated to the Japanese economy and the country's energy trends.
This trip provided participating companies with valuable insights into the current dynamics of the Japanese energy and mobility markets and allowed them to connect with key industry players.
We would like to thank the Pôle Véhicule du Futur for their trust!
Mr. Bruno JAMETPrograms manager, Energy & Propulsion, Pôle Véhicule du Futur
The Pôle Véhicule du Futur (Future Vehicle Cluster) organized a Hydrogen & Batteries mission to Japan, in the format of a Learning Expedition, in January 2024.
Having a local partner is essential: the CCIFJ was the ideal choice.
A preliminary program was developed in advance, along with a commercialization phase to secure the business model (minimum number of participants to confirm the 'GO'). This entire process was built with transparency and collaboration.
Once the mission was secured, appointments with companies and laboratories were arranged: the CCIFJ's network of contacts opened many doors!
We ended up with an intense, comprehensive program that fully satisfied the 15 participants from all over France.
From Kobe to the Yamanashi region, then Tokyo, and finally up to the Ibaraki region and Fukushima-Namie for the FH2R project... everything was very well prepared by the CCIFJ teams, including our contact Mehdi Matagne.
The delegation was also highly engaged, which energized our hosts, who were very open to discussion and led to the establishment of Franco-Japanese collaborative relationships!
In detail, the mission was mainly focused on hydrogen (70%), with a supplementary focus on batteries.
Upon arrival in Kobe-Osaka, we were able to visit Kawasaki Heavy Industries and their flagship hydrogen-related projects, followed by Kobelco, and then a networking evening with numerous Japanese companies, including some members of the Hydrogen Cluster.
On the second day, we visited the leading fuel cell and component laboratory, as well as Yamaha, whose technological pragmatism is inspiring in an era dominated by single-technology preaching. On Wednesday, we delved into research with AIST, then visited the iconic FH2R site near Fukushima. Thursday and Friday continued along this path with IHI, Nissan, Tokyo University, another very rich networking session with many Japanese participants, and concluded with an exchange with the French Embassy in Japan.
A competent and well-established local service provider is essential for organizing an effective international mission, and the CCIFJ met these expectations: a HUGE THANK YOU! »
