A car parts manufacturer in Japan is teaming up with an engineering and development consultancy in the UK “to develop next-generation electric vehicle technology”.
Tokyo-based Keihin, which produces carburettors and fuel injection for carmakers such as Honda, is working with Nuneaton-based HORIBA MIRA to develop a range of original EV system products for OEM customers.
The EV powertrain will be targeted at the Chinese market initially. China has recently updated its NEV (New Energy Vehicle) points system to reward OEMs for the range their EVs can achieve for each kWH of battery capacity. These regulations will drive the development of EVs that use battery energy and powertrains more efficiently, not just bigger batteries.
MIRA China, a subsidiary of HORIBA MIRA, will provide local support to the project.
Keihin’s president, Chitoshi Yokota, said: “With the increasing demand for electric powertrains, particularly in Japan and China, we are committed to developing cutting-edge technology to help OEMs bring low-carbon vehicles on to our roads.”
