Latest news with #KojiSato
Business Upturn
18 hours ago
- Automotive
- Business Upturn
Harvia and Toyota Co-Develop Concept Model for Hydrogen Sauna Utilizing Hydrogen Combustion Technology – Demonstration in Finland to Explore New Potential Applications for Hydrogen and Carbon Neutrality-
Harvia Plc (CEO: Matias Järnefelt; hereafter 'Harvia') and Toyota Motor Corporation (Operating Officer, President: Koji Sato; hereafter 'Toyota') teamed up to produce a concept model for what is believed to be the world's first hydrogen-powered sauna (as of this writing, according to the investigations of Harvia and Toyota). The collaboration represents a step toward a more sustainable future for saunas by combining Harvia's sauna expertise with Toyota's hydrogen combustion technology. The two companies will introduce the hydrogen sauna concept at two upcoming events in Jyväskylä, Finland. These demonstrations aim to explore new uses for hydrogen and contribute to carbon neutrality. The hydrogen sauna concept will be presented at the 'World Sauna Forum' (June 4–5, 2025) and during part of 'Rally Finland' (July 31–August 2, 2025) in Jyväskylä. By applying hydrogen to sauna heaters, the system generates only steam and warm air, emitting no CO2 during use. This offers an attractive alternative to conventional heating methods. The concept model aims to capture the essence of traditional smoke sauna, known for their gentle and soothing heat. The hydrogen combustion heater channels flames and warm air through sauna stones, heating them evenly from all sides. This process envelops the space in a soft warmth and produces the pleasant steam, or löyly , when water is poured on the stones. 'This collaboration with Toyota allows us to push the boundaries of sauna innovation and demonstrate our dedication to environmental responsibility,' says Timo Harvia, Head of Innovation and Technology at Harvia. 'Toyota's deep expertise in hydrogen handling and combustion gave us a safe and efficient way to pursue hydrogen as a clean energy source — something we might not have considered this soon without such a trusted partner. In doing so, we are not only exploring ways to minimize environmental impact but also creating a new kind of sauna experience that honors tradition while embracing the future.' 'Jyväskylä is a key location for Toyota and TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team (CEO: Yuichiro Haruna, hereafter 'TGR-WRT'), with whom we have worked together for many years,' says Mitsumasa Yamagata, President of Hydrogen Factory at Toyota. 'This project builds on the strong trust established with the local community under the leadership of Chairman Akio Toyoda. Thanks to the initiative of the Central Finland Mobility Foundation (Executive Director: Haruka Arai, hereafter 'Cefmof'), we've had the opportunity to partner with Harvia. Harvia's dedication to craftsmanship has been truly encouraging, and I believe this hydrogen sauna opens new possibilities for the future of hydrogen use. ' Harvia, a global leader in sauna and spa experiences, is committed to advancing well-being through sustainable and innovative solutions. The company integrates environmental responsibility across its operations – from product development and manufacturing to energy efficiency and supply chain management – continuously seeking ways to minimize environmental impact while delivering high-quality wellness experiences worldwide. Toyota views hydrogen as an important fuel in pursuit of carbon neutrality and has been promoting various initiatives in the areas of 'Create, Transport, Store, and Use' hydrogen in collaborating with partners across various industries. Moving forward, Toyota will continue to accelerate the efforts to further promote hydrogen utilization towards realizing a hydrogen society. About Harvia: Harvia is one of the leading companies operating in the sauna and spa market globally in terms of revenue, profitability and global reach. Harvia's brands and product portfolio are well known in the market, and the company's comprehensive product portfolio strives to meet the needs of the international sauna and spa market of both private and professional Group employs more than 700 professionals in Finland, Germany, United States, Romania, China and Hong Kong, Austria, Italy, Estonia, and Sweden. The company is headquartered in Muurame, Finland, adjacent to its largest sauna and sauna component manufacturing facility.
Yahoo
19 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Harvia and Toyota Co-Develop Concept Model for Hydrogen Sauna Utilizing Hydrogen Combustion Technology - Demonstration in Finland to Explore New Potential Applications for Hydrogen and Carbon Neutrality-
Harvia_TMC-Hydrogen heater Hydrogen sauna Harvia Plc (CEO: Matias Järnefelt; hereafter 'Harvia') and Toyota Motor Corporation (Operating Officer, President: Koji Sato; hereafter 'Toyota') teamed up to produce a concept model for what is believed to be the world's first hydrogen-powered sauna (as of this writing, according to the investigations of Harvia and Toyota). The collaboration represents a step toward a more sustainable future for saunas by combining Harvia's sauna expertise with Toyota's hydrogen combustion technology. The two companies will introduce the hydrogen sauna concept at two upcoming events in Jyväskylä, Finland. These demonstrations aim to explore new uses for hydrogen and contribute to carbon hydrogen sauna concept will be presented at the 'World Sauna Forum' (June 4–5, 2025) and during part of 'Rally Finland' (July 31–August 2, 2025) in Jyväskylä. By applying hydrogen to sauna heaters, the system generates only steam and warm air, emitting no CO2 during use. This offers an attractive alternative to conventional heating concept model aims to capture the essence of traditional smoke sauna, known for their gentle and soothing heat. The hydrogen combustion heater channels flames and warm air through sauna stones, heating them evenly from all sides. This process envelops the space in a soft warmth and produces the pleasant steam, or löyly, when water is poured on the stones. 'This collaboration with Toyota allows us to push the boundaries of sauna innovation and demonstrate our dedication to environmental responsibility,' says Timo Harvia, Head of Innovation and Technology at Harvia. 'Toyota's deep expertise in hydrogen handling and combustion gave us a safe and efficient way to pursue hydrogen as a clean energy source — something we might not have considered this soon without such a trusted partner. In doing so, we are not only exploring ways to minimize environmental impact but also creating a new kind of sauna experience that honors tradition while embracing the future.' 'Jyväskylä is a key location for Toyota and TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team (CEO: Yuichiro Haruna, hereafter 'TGR-WRT'), with whom we have worked together for many years,' says Mitsumasa Yamagata, President of Hydrogen Factory at Toyota. 'This project builds on the strong trust established with the local community under the leadership of Chairman Akio Toyoda. Thanks to the initiative of the Central Finland Mobility Foundation (Executive Director: Haruka Arai, hereafter 'Cefmof'), we've had the opportunity to partner with Harvia. Harvia's dedication to craftsmanship has been truly encouraging, and I believe this hydrogen sauna opens new possibilities for the future of hydrogen use. 'Harvia, a global leader in sauna and spa experiences, is committed to advancing well-being through sustainable and innovative solutions. The company integrates environmental responsibility across its operations – from product development and manufacturing to energy efficiency and supply chain management – continuously seeking ways to minimize environmental impact while delivering high-quality wellness experiences worldwide. Toyota views hydrogen as an important fuel in pursuit of carbon neutrality and has been promoting various initiatives in the areas of "Create, Transport, Store, and Use" hydrogen in collaborating with partners across various industries. Moving forward, Toyota will continue to accelerate the efforts to further promote hydrogen utilization towards realizing a hydrogen society. About Harvia: Harvia is one of the leading companies operating in the sauna and spa market globally in terms of revenue, profitability and global reach. Harvia's brands and product portfolio are well known in the market, and the company's comprehensive product portfolio strives to meet the needs of the international sauna and spa market of both private and professional Group employs more than 700 professionals in Finland, Germany, United States, Romania, China and Hong Kong, Austria, Italy, Estonia, and Sweden. The company is headquartered in Muurame, Finland, adjacent to its largest sauna and sauna component manufacturing About Toyota: Toyota Motor Corporation works to develop and manufacture innovative, safe and high-quality products and services that create happiness by providing mobility for all. We believe that true achievement comes from supporting our customers, partners, employees, and the communities in which we operate. Since our founding over 80 years ago in 1937, we have applied our Guiding Principles in pursuit of a safer, greener and more inclusive society. Toyota provides a full range of mobility-related services, including electrification, autonomous, and connected etc., also is working to transform into a "mobility company" that can meet diverse About Central Finland Mobility Foundation:TGR-WRT established its base in the city of Jyväskylä. In 2023, Jyväskylä City (Mayor: Timo Koivisto), TGR-WRT, and the Toyota Mobility Foundation (Chairman: Akio Toyoda) signed a basic agreement to build a partnership. The three parties established the Cefmof in 2024 to aim at creating a harmonious community between people and nature. Cefmof is supporting Jyväskylä City to be carbon neutral though utilizing Contact:Harvia: Juho Laurio, Head of Marketing Operations, tel. +358 40 705 3288Toyota: Inquiries from the MediaAttachments Harvia_TMC-Hydrogen heater Hydrogen saunaSign in to access your portfolio
Japan Times
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Japan Times
Toyota sales hit second monthly record on U.S. demand amid tariff rush
Toyota's sales hit a record for the second month in a row as a strong showing in the U.S. and Japan was boosted by customers making last-minute purchases before U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs took effect. The automaker's global sales, including from subsidiaries Daihatsu and Hino Motors, reached 936,718 units in April, a 12% increase from a year earlier year and a record for the month, the company said Thursday. Production came in at 902,425 units worldwide. Toyota and Lexus brand sales jumped 10% in the U.S. last month thanks to steady demand and an influx in orders as duties on imported cars and parts kicked in. The scuffle caused by Trump's oscillating trade war has forced the world's biggest carmaker and its peers to weigh semipermanent countermeasures to stem short-term turmoil. A 25% tariff was applied in April to all cars imported to the U.S., but on Thursday, Trump's global tariffs were deemed illegal and blocked by the U.S. trade court. The Trump administration said it was going to appeal the ruling. Japanese carmakers are heavily reliant on the U.S. auto market and could suffer as much as a $19 billion impact from the tariffs. Toyota, which has forecast a ¥180 billion ($1.2 billion) hit in April and May alone, has mostly stayed its course, emphasizing that it will respond flexibility but refrain from big changes until the future is less opaque. CEO Koji Sato earlier this month said the company will consider building out local product development and manufacturing in the U.S. in the medium to long term. In March, Toyota's U.S. sales rose 8% from a year earlier while Honda recorded a 13% jump, and Nissan's rose 10%. Mazda said it will pause U.S. production of one model variation that it exports to Canada. Honda plans to shift manufacturing of the hybrid version of its Civic from Japan to the U.S., while Nissan is halting U.S. orders for SUVs built in Mexico.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Toyota Motor Corporation (TM) to Begin Construction of New Tokyo Head Office, Opening Planned for FY2030
Toyota Motor Corporation (NYSE:TM) has announced that it will begin construction of its new head office in Tokyo with Keikyu Corporation on May 31. The new facility will be located next to the Shinagawa Station, one of Japan's major transportation hubs. It is set to create a new base to promote the company's full transformation into a mobility company. The building is expected to open in FY2030. Workers assembling a car in a modern manufacturing plant, emphasizing the company's sense of progress. In a press release shared on Monday, the Toyota Motor Corporation (NYSE:TM) said that the new head office will focus on two important themes: carbon neutrality and expanding the value of mobility. It will also serve as a base for people to come together and collaborate on creative ideas to generate synergy. Toyota Motor Corporation (NYSE:TM) plans on offering an 'engineer-first environment' at its new head office by serving as a development base for artificial intelligence, software, and other forms of intelligence. Moreover, the company is also considering implementing the Genki-Kûkan initiative, where employees can work alongside plants and other natural elements to enhance their mental and physical well-being. Here is what Toyota Motor Corporation (NYSE:TM)'s President Koji Sato said during the groundbreaking ceremony on May 23: "The new Tokyo Head Office will be a key base for Toyota's transformation into a Mobility Company. We will create an environment where diverse talents can come together and unleash their creativity, accelerating our efforts to enrich lives through mobility. Furthermore, aiming to be 'Best-in-town,' we are committed to contributing to the further development of the Shinagawa Station area, firmly rooted in the local community." While we acknowledge the potential of TM as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than TM and that has 100x upside potential, check out our report about this cheapest AI stock. READ NEXT: ChatGPT Stock Advice: Top 12 Stock Recommendations and 10 Cheap Rising Stocks to Buy Right Now. Disclosure: None.
Top Gear
22-05-2025
- Automotive
- Top Gear
Toyota boss: 'a car is not a car if it's not fun'
Hot Hatch CEO Koji Sato wants to avoid his cars becoming mere 'commodities' Skip 1 photos in the image carousel and continue reading Toyota, a hugely successful Japanese car company behind some of the world's worthiest, occasionally boring and sporadically brilliant cars, has announced it wants to… build more fun cars. It announced this intention in the most Toyota way possible: at a worthy, occasionally boring and sporadically interesting financial results conference. Boss Koji Sato, responding to a question about there being fewer exciting cars on the road, sounded upbeat. Advertisement - Page continues below 'I feel entirely the same way,' Sato-san said. 'A car is not a car if it's not fun. That's why we will never allow our cars to become commodities.' Yeah, we know too. But, consider Toyota's recent run of form, and you'd be hard pushed to disagree. Heck, it'd manage the whole 'fun' thing with just the GR Yaris alone. 'We can no longer sell cars just with model updates,' he continued, 'slightly better fuel efficiency or new designs. It comes down to your passion for making products that move people's hearts. You might like 'Of course, sports cars need to be sleek, but unless that same passion can be found in other types of cars, you won't be able to reach customers. I'm trying to instil this kind of mindset in each of our project teams. 'That is the Toyota I want to create, and I will continue working on that this year,' he added. Advertisement - Page continues below Probably why the new sixth-generation RAV4 is now available in 300bhp GR Sport guise, replete with new dampers, and a new-found focus on hoonery. And don't forget the whole 'GR Yaris' thing. Sato-san – former Gazoo Racing boss – carries on the mantra laid down by his predecessor, Akio Toyoda, who back in 2017 proudly announced 'no more boring cars'. We're totally reading that as 'build V8-engined Supra Mk6 immediately'. That sounds like… fun. Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Look out for your regular round-up of news, reviews and offers in your inbox. Get all the latest news, reviews and exclusives, direct to your inbox.
