Huan Qiu Shi Bao·2025-08-05 22:38Core Viewpoint - The article highlights that Chinese and American electric vehicle (EV) companies, represented by Tesla and BYD, are rapidly expanding their presence in Japan, while Japanese automakers are lagging in the electrification trend, which could lead to a loss of market share for them [1][4]. Group 1: Expansion of Chinese and American EV Companies - Tesla plans to increase its stores in Japan from 23 to 50 by the end of 2026 and is focusing on its Model 3 and Model Y in the Japanese market [1][3]. - BYD aims to grow its store count in Japan from 63 to 100 by 2025 and plans to introduce electric vehicles in the light vehicle sector by the second half of 2026 [3][10]. - As of June, imported electric vehicles, including those from Tesla and BYD, accounted for approximately 75% of total electric vehicle sales in Japan [3][4]. Group 2: Challenges Faced by Japanese Automakers - Japanese automakers are experiencing delays in their electrification efforts, which is affecting their competitiveness in both domestic and international markets [4][5]. - Factors contributing to the slow adoption of electric vehicles in Japan include high electricity costs due to reliance on thermal power, which diminishes the cost advantage of electric vehicles over traditional fuel vehicles [6][8]. - The traditional internal combustion engine industry in Japan, with over a century of development, poses a significant barrier to the transition to electric vehicles, risking job losses and economic disruption [7][8]. Group 3: Consumer Preferences and Market Dynamics - Consumer preferences in Japan show a reluctance to adopt electric vehicles, with only about 14% of consumers indicating a willingness to purchase them by 2024 [8][10]. - The lack of charging infrastructure, high purchase prices, and concerns over battery safety contribute to the slow uptake of electric vehicles in Japan [8][9]. - Japanese automakers are focusing on hybrid vehicles rather than fully electric models, as they have historically excelled in fuel-efficient internal combustion engine technology [9][10]. Group 4: Strategic Adjustments by Japanese Automakers - Companies like Honda are reducing their investment in electrification from 10 trillion yen to 7 trillion yen, emphasizing hybrid models instead [10][11]. - Nissan plans to start exporting electric vehicles from China to various global markets in 2026 to improve its performance [11].