Revolution on Tokyo’s Streets: 150 Swappable-Battery Electric Trucks and 5-Minute Charging Arrive in 2025
Japan’s logistics giants team up for a 2025 trial of battery-swappable electric trucks, promising blazing-fast “charging” and zero downtime.
- 150+ battery-swappable commercial EVs deployed in Tokyo by September 2025
- 14 innovative modular battery swapping stations to be installed citywide
- 5 minutes—target time for fully automated battery swaps
- Zero downtime during swap—drivers stay in their vehicles
Imagine delivery trucks buzzing through Tokyo with barely a pause for “charging.” Starting in September 2025, this will be reality. Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), Mitsubishi Motors, battery-swapping pioneer Ample, and logistics titan Yamato Transport are collaborating on a first-of-its-kind, multi-year pilot to supercharge commercial EV adoption in Japan.
What’s New With Tokyo’s Battery-Swapping EV Project?
Fresh off a successful trial in Kyoto, this new Tokyo initiative will see over 150 EVs—including the eCanter light-duty truck and the compact Mitsubishi Minicab—serving high-demand delivery routes. Fourteen modular swapping stations will spring up across Tokyo. Drivers can now replenish their EV battery in a mere five minutes, all without leaving their seats.
Unlike traditional plug-in charging or even gasoline refueling, these stations use fully automated robotics. The process is so seamless, drivers simply park, let the robots do the work, and roll out recharged. The concept, developed by US firm Ample, is designed for dense, high-traffic cities, making it ideal for Tokyo’s legendary delivery hustle.
Want deeper context? Visit Mitsubishi Motors or explore zero-emission policies at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
How Does Battery Swapping Beat Traditional Charging?
Japan’s rapid transition to commercial electric vehicles has faced a major bottleneck: slow charging times cause costly delivery delays. The new system by Ample obliterates that obstacle. Instead of waiting for up to an hour—with precious trucks idling—fleets now enjoy near-instant turnaround. Quick battery swaps mean more time delivering and less time stuck at a charger.
Who Benefits the Most from This Tech?
Yamato Transport, Japan’s leading parcel carrier, is the first major customer. For high-velocity, last-mile logistics, downtime isn’t an option. Swappable batteries allow these companies to maximize fleet utilization, delighting customers who demand lightning-fast shipping. But the benefits don’t end with delivery drivers—Tokyo’s entire urban ecosystem stands to gain from reduced emissions and quieter streets.
This technology also positions Tokyo at the cutting edge of EV infrastructure, with potential for future integration into smart grids, storing renewable energy and balancing the city’s power supply.
What’s Next for Swapping & EV Innovation?
Project backers reveal that Tokyo is only the beginning. Future plans include expanding battery swapping for buses, taxis, and potentially private vehicles. With support from the Tokyo Metropolitan Environment Public Corporation, Japanese cities may soon see swappable energy hubs that do more than just charge—they’ll help stabilize the grid and enable more renewables.
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Q&A: Top Questions on Tokyo’s Swappable EV Pilot
Q: Does swapping work for all EVs?
A: For now, it’s limited to compatible commercial platforms, but more models may join as the tech scales.
Q: Is the process really contactless for drivers?
A: Yes! Drivers never leave their cabs, making the experience quick, safe, and convenient.
Q: Could this tech hit US or EU cities?
A: If successful, experts predict rapid global adoption in high-density metro areas.
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Ready for the Electric Logistics Revolution? Here’s How to Stay Plugged In:
- Track EV news at Ample and Mitsubishi Fuso.
- Sign up for the latest updates and newsletters from leading automotive innovation hubs.
- Mark your calendar for the Evertiq Expo in Berlin—see next-gen EV tech up close.
- Watch for more battery swapping pilots rolling out worldwide.
Keep your finger on the pulse of EV innovation—and don’t miss out on the breakthrough that could change how cities move forever!
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