Sustainability shines in Asahi's shuttle concept

Asahi Kasei's concept electric shuttle is a rolling showcase of the supplier's materials and electronics innovations, with a strong focus on sustainability. Dubbed the AKXY2, it is “a complete vehicle design - exterior and interior,” Michael Franchy, director of North American Mobility at Asahi Kasei America, told SAE Media in Detroit.

The AKXY2 showcases 18 technologies, including two collaborations with startup companies identified by Asahi Kasei's corporate venture-capital arm. Fifteen of the Asahi Kasei technologies either are in production or production-ready. “Everything visible, touchable and interactable is made from Asahi Kasei original or collaborative technology,” Franchy said. The concept emphasizes three overlapping themes: sustainability, satisfaction and society.