Tokyo’s High-Speed EV Battery Swapping Network Set to Redefine Urban Deliveries in 2025
Major automakers and logistics giants unite to launch 150+ rapid battery swap EVs and stations across Tokyo, cutting vehicle downtime.
- 150+ swappable EVs rolling out September 2025
- 14 battery swapping stations across Tokyo
- 5 minutes per fully-automated battery swap
- 0 driver involvement required during swapping
Tokyo is about to witness a game-changing leap in commercial electrification. In a move set to transform how delivery fleets power their vehicles, Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), Mitsubishi Motors, Ample, and logistics leader Yamato Transport are teaming up for a multi-year pilot program. Beginning September 2025, this bold initiative will roll out more than 150 battery-swappable electric vehicles and establish 14 modular battery swapping stations across the city.
Last year’s pilot in Kyoto proved the speed and practicality of swappable batteries, but Tokyo’s urban density and relentless delivery schedules demand even higher efficiency. Yamato Transport, Japan’s shipping heavyweight, will put these new EVs to the test, focusing on the crucial “last mile” delivery challenge that defines modern e-commerce.
With swappable EV platforms like the MFTBC eCanter light-duty truck and Mitsubishi’s nimble Minicab EV, courier drivers won’t waste precious minutes at charging stations. Each swap takes under five minutes, and thanks to Ample’s cutting-edge automation, drivers can stay comfortably behind the wheel throughout the process.
This landmark project is backed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Environment Public Corporation, highlighting Japan’s drive to cut emissions and promote renewable energy storage—goals especially urgent as the world eyes sustainable urban growth.
What Makes Battery Swapping in Tokyo Different?
Forget hunting for a charger or plugging in for hours. Tokyo’s battery swapping stations deliver a fully-automated, hassle-free switch in just minutes—no need for the driver to even step outside. Swaps are lightning-fast, keeping delivery trucks and vans on the move in one of the world’s busiest cities.
How Will This Impact Urban Deliveries?
Reducing vehicle downtime transforms the economics of delivery. Fewer idle hours mean more parcels delivered, less congestion, and sharper competitive edges for logistics giants like Yamato. The result? Faster deliveries and a noticeable drop in urban emissions.
Can Battery Swapping Play a Role in Renewable Energy?
Absolutely. The project’s future ambitions include using its vast network of modular stations to store renewable energy and support the Tokyo power grid—a move aligned with Japan’s broader green initiatives. Battery swapping could evolve from simply powering vehicles to becoming critical infrastructure for city-wide energy resilience.
How Does This Fit with Global Trends?
Japan is not alone in exploring battery swapping. Worldwide, cities are searching for ways to accelerate electric mobility. Industry giants like Tesla and Nissan are watching closely as swappable tech scales up. Meanwhile, the electronics world gears up for deeper dives into transport innovation at events like the next Evertiq Expo in Berlin on June 5, 2025.
How Can You Stay Ahead of the EV Revolution?
Stay informed about the latest in EV tech, logistics, and urban innovation. Follow industry developments, connect with experts at live events, and never miss a news update by subscribing to leading newsletters.
Ready to experience the future of urban logistics? Join the movement. Here’s how to accelerate your knowledge:
- Mark your calendar for the 2025 Evertiq Expo in Berlin.
- Subscribe to industry newsletters for real-time updates.
- Track progress from key players like Mitsubishi Motors.
- Explore global energy solutions via Ample and other innovators.
- Keep an eye on Tokyo as it becomes a model for future cities worldwide.
Urban electrification is accelerating—don’t get left behind!
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