Mitsubishi Fuso and Foxconn plan to launch a standalone bus OEM in 2026, focusing on zero-emission vehicles like the Model T and Model U.
Fuso Bus to Enter New Era of Electrification via Foxconn Partnership
Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (Mitsubishi Fuso) and Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) have announced plans to create a standalone bus company in Japan to accelerate the development of competitive zero-emission buses.
Scheduled to be established in the second half of 2026, the new original equipment manufacturer (OEM) will combine Mitsubishi Fuso‘s design and manufacturing expertise with Foxconn‘s zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) technology and global partnership network.
“We are excited to join forces with Foxconn. This collaboration will combine the strengths of both parties to accelerate our transformation in the bus sector. By combining Fuso and Foxconn’s extensive experience and technological know-how, we will offer customers state-of-the-art solutions for public transport, thereby contributing to society both in Japan and abroad,” said Karl Deppen, CEO of Mitsubishi Fuso.
Mitsubishi Fuso and Foxconn have previously signed a memorandum of understanding to explore strategic cooperation in clean mobility. Both companies plan to cooperate on the development, production, supply chain management, and sales of ZEV buses through their respective subsidiaries, Mitsubishi Fuso Bus Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (Fuso Bus) and Foxtron Vehicle Technologies (Foxtron). The initiative will begin with the Foxtron-developed Model T and Model U.
“Mobility is a strategic priority for Foxconn,” said Jun Seki, Foxconn‘s Chief Strategy Officer for EVs. “This collaboration with Mitsubishi Fuso will provide a comprehensive electrification solution for Japan’s transportation ecosystem. This approach will significantly shorten development cycles and enhance cost-efficiency.”
Katsuto Kora, who currently serves as Director and Head of Fuso Bus, has been appointed the new company’s CEO. Headquartered in Kawasaki, Japan, the firm will operate as a bus-dedicated OEM, focusing on developing and launching electric buses for domestic and international markets while continuing to improve its conventional bus portfolio. The buses will be manufactured in Toyama under the Fuso name, leveraging the brand’s 90 years of history.
“The new joint venture will integrate the corporate cultures of both companies, blending Japan’s spirit of manufacturing excellence with Foxconn’s agility and technological prowess,” Kora said.
“Given the extensive existing partnerships of both shareholders, we expect even broader collaboration opportunities in the field of future technologies in the years to come. Our focus will be on meeting customer expectations not only for current conventional ICE improvement but also for zero-emission transportation and leading Fuso bus into a new era of digitalisation and electrification,” he added.
Mitsubishi Fuso said that, with local development, sourcing, and production capabilities, the new company aims to comply with Japanese regulations and quality standards. This local presence will be backed by Foxconn‘s high-tech competency to ensure product success globally.
