While Japanese manufacturers have long been at the forefront of bipedal humanoid robot development, recent AI breakthroughs from the US and China’s IT industry have propelled these innovations forward. Rows of bipedal robots showcased by tech companies at AI industry events have captivated global attention.

Japan Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing (JASM), a subsidiary of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), is set to significantly increase its workforce in spring 2025. The company plans to hire over 600 new employees, more than doubling its intake compared to early 2024. This substantial boost in recruitment is aimed at staffing two new semiconductor factories in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. The first facility is scheduled to commence chip production in 2024, with the second planned to open in 2027.

Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are set to reach the 10-million milestone in 2024, marking a significant achievement for the global passenger vehicle market, according to Counterpoint. This milestone will coincide with the resumption of the long-term decline for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, whose market share is expected to fall below 50% within four years, the research firm said.