Taiwan’s contract manufacturer moves to secure its second e-mobility partnership in Japan, as Mitsubishi Fuso eyes entry into the electric bus market with Foxconn-developed models.
Foxconn is on the verge of securing a supply deal with Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation for all-electric buses, the Japanese portal Nikkei reports. If confirmed, this would mark the entry of Mitsubishi Fuso into the battery-electric bus segment with two Foxconn-developed models: the Model T and the Model U microbus. The latter was first presented in October last year, while the Model T already launched in 2021.
The vehicles would be rebranded and sold under the Mitsubishi Fuso nameplate, and both sides are considering forming a new company to manage the project. The move signals a significant step in Foxconn’s ambitions to expand its e-mobility footprint beyond Taiwan, where the Model T has been operating on local bus routes since 2022.
The potential agreement would also represent Foxconn’s second electric vehicle collaboration in Japan. In May, the group – officially known as Hon Hai Precision Industry – entered into a memorandum of understanding with Mitsubishi Motors to supply a tailored version of its Model B electric crossover.
According to Nikkei, Foxconn Chairman Young Liu emphasised the company’s EV strategy at its May shareholders’ meeting, stating “that the company will make the EV business into another growth driver.” On questions about new partnerships, Liu added that preparations for another agreement were “nearly complete.”
The Model T and Model U are expected to launch in Japan in 2027, though no production partner has yet been disclosed. In April, Foxconn announced its intention to bring both models to the Japanese market, but refrained from naming any local collaborators.
At the same time, the competitive landscape for electric buses in Japan is evolving. Mitsubishi Fuso recently signed an agreement to merge with Hino Motors, a Toyota subsidiary, and President Karl Deppen hinted at ongoing electric bus projects “with other partners.” Meanwhile, rivals such as BYD and EV Motors Japan have already gained early market entry, often leveraging Chinese manufacturing.
asia.nikkei.com (paywall)
