Message from TAP team members
NEWS Toyota Motor Corporation’ s MT Manufacturer
Toyota Autoparts Philippines, Inc. Joins Aisin Group A new start with a new name: Toyota Aisin Philippines, Inc.
Toyota Motor Corporation and Aisin have agreed to make MT manufacturer Toyota Autoparts Philippines, Inc. (TAP) Aisin's subsidiary so as to strengthen competitiveness in the MT business. Aisin is happy to welcome TAP to the Aisin Group. Let’s look into the context of this news a bit.
New Company Profile Name: Toyota Aisin Philippines, Inc. Location: Santa Rosa City, Laguna Province, Philippines Capital: 1 billion pesos (approx. 2.2 billion yen) Representative: President Hiroshi Fukutani Main business: Manufacture of MTs and constant velocity joint
At a company-wide meeting
Manila Bay Manila Bay*Titles are as of May 24
How is the MT business being rearranged? In November 2014, Toyota, Aisin Seiki and Aisin AI agreed to
consolidate MT-related functions spanning two companies
(Toyota and Aisin AI) into a single company, Aisin AI.
Development and production function in Japan were transferred
from Toyota to Aisin AI by January 2017. In January 2016, Aisin
Seiki acquired some stake in Toyota Autoparts Philippines and
has been participating in business management.
Aisin’s equity participation in TAP is being raised from 34% to
61%, and the company is being renamed Toyota Aisin
Philippines, Inc. Aisin will take the lead in managing the new
company's business operations.
Also, some of MT production will be moved from Aisin AI to TAP,
utilizing the high production capacity of TAP to boost production
efficiency. Also, to strengthen production of ATs for which
demand is increasing, we will begin production of AT parts at
TAP, making full use of TAP’s technology and expertise.
What’s the plan moving forward?
What kind of company is TAP? TAP is one of the Toyota’s global supply bases for MT, mainly
exporting to ASEAN (the Association of South East Asian
Nations), South Africa, and Latin America.
Established: August 1990 Sales: 9.167 billion pesos (approx. 20 billion yen) (FY2017 results) Employees: Approx. 1,350 (as of March 2018) No. of MT produced: Approx. 230,000 units (FY2017 results) *Currency exchange rate: 1 Philippine peso = 2.18 yen
DATA
In this section, we dig deeper into some hot news stories about the Aisin Group! In-depth commentary answers your questions about what our Group is up to right now. Get to know the Aisin Group better with the latest info!
May 24, 2018 marked an epoch in the history of Toyota Autoparts Philippines (TAP), now Toyota Aisin Philippines! We look forward to working closely with Aisin Group starting with AT parts and achieve our longtime dream of “made-in-the-Philippines” AT.
Right: Emmanuel Mendoza/GM of General Administration Div. Left: Anita Antonio/Deputy GM of General Administration Div.
Located in Santa Rosa City, Laguna Province, approx.
40km south of Manila
Philippines Vice Chairman Mr. Ty, Toyota Motor
Managing Officer Mr. Matsuda, Aisin Seiki President
Mr. Ihara, TAP President Mr. Fukutani
Aisin Group Network Magazine Ju ly , 2018 No.06
Aisin Group Network Magazine “HELLO WORLD” No.06 (July, 2018) Published byHELLO WORLD Production Committee Contact information Public Affairs Dept., Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd. 2-1 Asahi-machi, Kariya, Aichi, 448-8650, Japan TEL +81-566-24-8233
Announcedon
Message from new President Kiyotaka Ise
of a somewhat passive stance toward customers. In terms of R&D, for example, this means a position of “responding to Toyota's request.” In fact, I felt similarly about Toyota itself at times. When I became the head of Toyota’s R&D Headquarters in 2014, everyone talked about “making the CEs’ visions a reality.” So I said “are you happy as engineers to give shape to the CEs’ ideas?” I wanted them to have the spirit and backbone to produce systems that they envisioned themselves, and then “sell” them to the CEs. And for suppliers, as well, I think it is crucial to take the initiative in making proposals and marketing them to customers, in order to feel positive excitement about what they do.
Is there something people should focus on to achieve that? Well, I think the thing is to have dreams and ideals, like “This is the kind of technology I want to develop,” “This is the kind of success I want to have.” When you have dreams and ideals, I believe you can perceive the gaps between these and reality, and take active steps to close these gaps.
Could you tell us, in a few words, about your feelings on being appointed President and your vision for the future? It is a great honor to be entrusted with the important role of President during a once-in-a-century era of dramatic changes. For the further development of the Aisin Group, I would like to accelerate the changes initiatived by previous President Mr. Ihara.
Please talk about your relationship with and impressions of the Aisin Group. I first engaged with the Aisin Group during my fourth and fifth years after joining Toyota Motor Corporation, when actuators made by Aisin Seiki were adopted for development of a traction control system*1. Also, around 2003, I had a lot of involvement with Aisin’s sliding doors, as I was in
charge of managing the chief engineers*2 (referred to below as “CE”) for RAV4, Porte, and all domestic (Japanese) minivans. The biggest surprise for me in coming to Aisin Seiki is the large number of Group companies in various countries and the diversity of products they handle. However, a large number of Group companies and a wide range of products can be a double-edged sword. I believe that because we are in a time of dramatic change, it is vital that we do not move off in different directions, but unite our strengths and keep moving in the same direction together.
What are your impressions of the Aisin Group team members? My strong impression is that each Group company has a high level of specialized expertise. During my time at Toyota, Aisin team members always worked their hardest to respond to Toyota’s requests. I believe that enabled us to build a solid relationship based on mutual trust. At the same time, I sometimes got the impression
What do we need to keep in mind to get through this once-in-a-century era of dramatic change successfully? At the end of a Group management strategy briefing session, I spoke about the head of a venerable old business in Kyoto, who said, “If adhering to tradition means going out of business, then it’s better to change the way you do things and save the company, even it means abandoning tradition.” “Scrap & Build” is a catchphrase mentioned in the group management policy, but “Build” is the purpose, and “Scrap” is just the means to do that. Naturally, we need resources (personnel and money) to start anything new, but there are limits to the supply of these. That’s why scrapping is necessary. For example, in the powertrain business, we intend to further accelerate development of electrified products such as 1-motor hybrid transmission and eAxle, not only to make our automatic transmission unit more competitive, but also for the future. However, the reality is that in order to secure resources for this endeavor, we will have to give up on some existing business. Even if that business has contributed to the Aisin Group’s development in the past, if it is not in keeping with current trends, it is no longer competitive, and we cannot expect growth in the market, we have no choice but to scrap it completely and redirect those resources toward other projects. It is inevitable that people involved with scrapped businesses and products will feel pain and loss because the things they’ve been working so hard on have been abandoned. However, I’d like people to look on the bright side, that is, not “my job has been done away with,” but “I have a chance to take on a new challenge.” I see this as “positive scrapping” and I hope to see people adopt this mentality.
So, what kind of mentality should we have toward the “scrap & build” process? I think the most important thing is maintaining a sense of crisis. When we think about the Aisin
Group’s future, ten years or twenty years ahead, we should recognize that we do face a critical situation, and ask ourselves whether things are all right the way they are and if not, what we need to do to improve them. From there, people at the management level need to think about scrapping and building at the macro level, in terms of business units and products. Team members should think about it at the micro level, in terms of work procedures. I’m sure there are a lot of people who have too much of their time taken up with meetings and preparing materials, and not enough time to focus on their real work. To reform work styles, including how meetings are carried out, we need to review procedures for preparing materials and use technology to make things more efficient, so that people can do what they need to do and what they want to do, for example, engineers can focus on engineering.
Finally, what is your message to team members? To get through this once-in-a-century era of transformation and come out stronger on the other side, all 110,000 team members at 214 Aisin Group companies need to think and act with united resolve. The most crucial thing, as stated in our action guidelines, is to “Independently predict the future and act in a speedy manner.” I hope each and every team member will take this to heart and apply it on the job demonstrating their own initiative. Producing results that you are personally satisfied with involves breaking down any walls that stand in the way, which is part of the scrap & build process. Your position is not important. Whether you are an executive or a newly hired team member, apply the reform effort in the position you are in. None of us is alone. We are members of a team with 110,000 people in 214 companies. Let’s bring together the expertise and technologies of the entire Group, visualize the Aisin Group in the 22nd century, and work together toward that dream.
Let’s get a genuine competitiveness for a bright future
Unite the strengths of the group to move in the same direction
*1 Traction control system : Control mechanism that prevents tires from slipping and ensures stable driving during startup and acceleration on snowy roads, etc.
*2 Chief Engineer : Engineer who leads all areas of planning, development, production and sales for a particular vehicle model, and takes responsibility for the results
Take the initiative
Mission as President
President of the board Kiyotaka Ise Born March 2, 1955 Chronology Apr. 1980 Joined Toyota Motor Corporation Jun. 2007 Managing Officer of Toyota Motor Corporation Jun. 2012 President, Lexus International of Toyota Motor Corporation Apr. 2013 Senior Managing Officer of Toyota Motor Corporation Apr. 2014 Executive General Manager, R&D Headquarters of Toyota Motor Corporation Apr. 2015 Executive General Manager, Motor Sports Headquarters of Toyota Motor Corporation Apr. 2016 President, Advanced R&D and Engineering Company of Toyota Motor Corporation Apr. 2016 Chief Safety Technology Officer of Toyota Motor Corporation Jan. 2018 Executive Vice President of Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd. Jun. 2018 President of Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd.
Prof i le
On June 19, Mr. Kiyotaka Ise assumed office as Aisin Seiki’s new president, and a new management structure was launched. Here we present some words from Mr. Ise on his future vision, and some information on his background and character.
02 03
Message from new President Kiyotaka Ise
of a somewhat passive stance toward customers. In terms of R&D, for example, this means a position of “responding to Toyota's request.” In fact, I felt similarly about Toyota itself at times. When I became the head of Toyota’s R&D Headquarters in 2014, everyone talked about “making the CEs’ visions a reality.” So I said “are you happy as engineers to give shape to the CEs’ ideas?” I wanted them to have the spirit and backbone to produce systems that they envisioned themselves, and then “sell” them to the CEs. And for suppliers, as well, I think it is crucial to take the initiative in making proposals and marketing them to customers, in order to feel positive excitement about what they do.
Is there something people should focus on to achieve that? Well, I think the thing is to have dreams and ideals, like “This is the kind of technology I want to develop,” “This is the kind of success I want to have.” When you have dreams and ideals, I believe you can perceive the gaps between these and reality, and take active steps to close these gaps.
Could you tell us, in a few words, about your feelings on being appointed President and your vision for the future? It is a great honor to be entrusted with the important role of President during a once-in-a-century era of dramatic changes. For the further development of the Aisin Group, I would like to accelerate the changes initiatived by previous President Mr. Ihara.
Please talk about your relationship with and impressions of the Aisin Group. I first engaged with the Aisin Group during my fourth and fifth years after joining Toyota Motor Corporation, when actuators made by Aisin Seiki were adopted for development of a traction control system*1. Also, around 2003, I had a lot of involvement with Aisin’s sliding doors, as I was in
charge of managing the chief engineers*2 (referred to below as “CE”) for RAV4, Porte, and all domestic (Japanese) minivans. The biggest surprise for me in coming to Aisin Seiki is the large number of Group companies in various countries and the diversity of products they handle. However, a large number of Group companies and a wide range of products can be a double-edged sword. I believe that because we are in a time of dramatic change, it is vital that we do not move off in different directions, but unite our strengths and keep moving in the same direction together.
What are your impressions of the Aisin Group team members? My strong impression is that each Group company has a high level of specialized expertise. During my time at Toyota, Aisin team members always worked their hardest to respond to Toyota’s requests. I believe that enabled us to build a solid relationship based on mutual trust. At the same time, I sometimes got the impression
What do we need to keep in mind to get through this once-in-a-century era of dramatic change successfully? At the end of a Group management strategy briefing session, I spoke about the head of a venerable old business in Kyoto, who said, “If adhering to tradition means going out of business, then it’s better to change the way you do things and save the company, even it means abandoning tradition.” “Scrap & Build” is a catchphrase mentioned in the group management policy, but “Build” is the purpose, and “Scrap” is just the means to do that. Naturally, we need resources (personnel and money) to start anything new, but there are limits to the supply of these. That’s why scrapping is necessary. For example, in the powertrain business, we intend to further accelerate development of electrified products such as 1-motor hybrid transmission and eAxle, not only to make our automatic transmission unit more competitive, but also for the future. However, the reality is that in order to secure resources for this endeavor, we will have to give up on some existing business. Even if that business has contributed to the Aisin Group’s development in the past, if it is not in keeping with current trends, it is no longer competitive, and we cannot expect growth in the market, we have no choice but to scrap it completely and redirect those resources toward other projects. It is inevitable that people involved with scrapped businesses and products will feel pain and loss because the things they’ve been working so hard on have been abandoned. However, I’d like people to look on the bright side, that is, not “my job has been done away with,” but “I have a chance to take on a new challenge.” I see this as “positive scrapping” and I hope to see people adopt this mentality.
So, what kind of mentality should we have toward the “scrap & build” process? I think the most important thing is maintaining a sense of crisis. When we think about the Aisin
Group’s future, ten years or twenty years ahead, we should recognize that we do face a critical situation, and ask ourselves whether things are all right the way they are and if not, what we need to do to improve them. From there, people at the management level need to think about scrapping and building at the macro level, in terms of business units and products. Team members should think about it at the micro level, in terms of work procedures. I’m sure there are a lot of people who have too much of their time taken up with meetings and preparing materials, and not enough time to focus on their real work. To reform work styles, including how meetings are carried out, we need to review procedures for preparing materials and use technology to make things more efficient, so that people can do what they need to do and what they want to do, for example, engineers can focus on engineering.
Finally, what is your message to team members? To get through this once-in-a-century era of transformation and come out stronger on the other side, all 110,000 team members at 214 Aisin Group companies need to think and act with united resolve. The most crucial thing, as stated in our action guidelines, is to “Independently predict the future and act in a speedy manner.” I hope each and every team member will take this to heart and apply it on the job demonstrating their own initiative. Producing results that you are personally satisfied with involves breaking down any walls that stand in the way, which is part of the scrap & build process. Your position is not important. Whether you are an executive or a newly hired team member, apply the reform effort in the position you are in. None of us is alone. We are members of a team with 110,000 people in 214 companies. Let’s bring together the expertise and technologies of the entire Group, visualize the Aisin Group in the 22nd century, and work together toward that dream.
In the preceding pages, Mr. Ise delivered an enthusiastic message to the Aisin Group’s 110,000 team members worldwide. What has his life been like this far, and how does he usually spend his days? In this section we get to know a bit more about Mr. Ise, a man with an engineer’s spirit and drive to create new things, as well as an openhearted and humorous character.
What is President Ise like?
History Let’s have a look at Mr. Ise’s personal history from his boyhood through his years with Toyota Motor Corporation.
Dreaming of the Aisin Group in the 22nd century
“Build” is the purpose, “Scrap” is the means
Childhood
Kiyotaka Ise was born in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. He was a lively boy, crazy about baseball. His family had a three-wheeled vehicle, and he was always extremely interested in cars.
In 2007 he was appointed President of Lexus Interna- tional. He worked with partners from around the world and led efforts to revive the luxury car market, which slumped after the global financial crisis caused by bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers. In 2016 he assumed the office of President of the Advanced R&D and Engineering Company.
As an executive officer
As a young engineer
He was first provisionally assigned to the engine develop- ment department. Involved with the development of a new engine model, he was experiencing both struggles and joys, but soon he was transferred to the Higashi-Fuji experimen- tal department, where he gained experience with evaluations. It later became clear that this personnel transfer was an error, actually intended for another member named Mr. Iseki.
To Aisin Seiki
In January 2018 he became Vice-President of Aisin Seiki, and in June was named President and leader of the Aisin Group.
From mid-career to CE
When he learned of the CE system, he knew that “I wanted to be a CE”, and requested a transfer to product planning. After overseeing development of the Crown, he was appointed CE for the RAV4.
With core members of the RAV4 team
University years
As a university student, Mr. Ise was a big science fiction fan. He studied mechanical engineering, and says that he aspired to build a rocket in the future. After learning about industries such as steel and heavy manufacturing, he was fascinated by “seeing things I’ve designed actually running in the world,” and decided to work for Toyota Motor Corporation. At graduation ceremony
With team members of junior high baseball club (Second person on the left at middle row)
Photo at age of 3
Carrying out cold climate tests in Sweden
As President, Mr. Ise worked to popularize Lexus around the world

On the job
Off the job
What is your motto?
“Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” I hadn’t thought about it consciously, but when asked about my motto, I recalled these words I’ve lived by since my Toyota days.
1
How did you meet your wife?
As a grad student, I was majoring in precision engineering and one thing I studied was artificial hearts. She was working in the same place as a nurse, and… I fell for her then.
9 What are some of your favorite foods?
Conger eel and Akashi-yaki (octopus snack).
Both are specialties of my hometown.
10What do you do on your days off?
Learning by reading books, walking and playing golf. On a weekend, I’ll spend one day reading up on management, economics, engineering and so on. The other day, I’ll forget all about work and go for a walk in the nearby botanical garden (recently I’m enthusiastic about taking photos), or play golf. My score is nothing to write home about, but I enjoy it!
7
What would you do if you had a month off?
Travel around Japan to places I’ve never visited. or hit the town in Las Vegas! I love flowers and greenery, so I’d like to visit places of natural beauty around Japan that I’ve never been to. Then if I have time left over… Las Vegas.(Laughs)
12
What kind of car would you like to drive?
Well, it’s a Porshe. It is a dream for an engineer to own a Porshe car, isn’t it? By the way, the car I drive now is a Lexus GS350.
11
What kind of books do you like?
History, sci-fi, and mysteries. I’m a big fan of Agatha Christie.
8
Can you tell us about an experience that caused you to grow?
When I was a young Toyota member, I had a hard time having difficulties with cold climate tests in Hokkaido. Then, my supervisor told me, “Don’t come back until you fix the problem.” At first I thought, “It’s physically impossible to fix it!” But I threw body and soul into working it out, and finally I did it. My takeaway from this was, you shouldn’t tell yourself something is impossible.
3What should people do while they’re still young?
Always be aware of the issues. This advice is not limited to young people, though. If you keep this in mind, then you can get hints from anywhere–– things people say, sentences you read in books. Personally, I got a lot of planning ideas from the manga titled Sommelier. To be aware of the issues, first you need to have a clear vision of your own ideals, and then compare those with the reality you see.
2
What is your top priority as President?
The safety and happiness of our team members. The number one priority is avoiding any accidents or injuries. Next is for members to enjoy and feel rewarded by their jobs. If they are, then the company will benefit as well.
6
Q&A Read this Q&A and get to know Mr. Ise, from his professional motto to how he takes break in his spare time!
Mr. Ise around the time he met her (left)
What aspirations have you had, besides working in the auto industry?
Definitely rockets. I am nuts about sci-fi, like the Star Trek movies.
4
Are you someone who takes swift action, or someone who thinks things over carefully before acting?
I’m a man of action!
5
Aisin Group Products Installed in Popular New Car Models
In order to meet growing demand for AT in the global market, we aim to strengthen the manufacturing framework of group companies, mainly in China and Japan, with the aim of securing supply capacity of 13.2 million units in 2020.
Various Aisin Group products are installed in the Toyota Motor Corporation’s new Corolla Hatchback (North American model) and new Crown, which Toyota Motor Corporation unveiled on June 26.
The Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan, Inc. recognized Aisin Group engineers for contributions to the improvement and development of automobile technologies and presented them with awards.
Multiple awards from the Society of Automotive Engineers of JapanMay 24
The team members at AW-I WAKASACompany members declare their determination at rally
Aisin Seiki Chairman Mr. Toyoda (left) shakes hands with Tangshan City Secretary Mr. Wang at a signing ceremony on May 10 Signing ceremonies held with representatives of GAC Motor (left) and Geely Automobile (right)
Aisin Group
Aisin Group
Aisin Group
April 24
April 23 & 26
Aisin Seiki reorganize the production line of Tangshan Aisin Gear, a plant that currently produces MTs, so as to start production of ATs as well in August 2019. In the future, they plan to produce around 400,000 6-speed FWD ATs annually.
Aisin Seiki
Ahead of the initial production of FWD ATs, the company held an equipment installation ceremony on April 23. Also, on April 26 a rally was held to mark the start of full-fledged preparation for 6-speed FWD AT production.
Tianjin AW Automatic Transmission
Aisin AW has decided to set up companies to manufacture ATs in China as joint ventures with Chinese automakers Guangzhou Automobile Group Motor Co., Ltd. (GAC Motor) and Zhejiang Geely Luoyou Engine Co., Ltd. of the Zhejiang Geely Group (Geely Automobile) respectively, and signing ceremonies were held. Both of the new joint ventures are expected to manufacture around 400,000 6-speed FWD ATs annually.
Aisin AW
To commemorate the start of production of dampers, which will be the primary product of the AT parts manufacturing company AW-I WAKASA established last November, a ceremony was held as the first unit rolled off the production line.
AW-I WAKASA
Aisin AW
Kazumasa Tsukamoto (Advisor and Executive Technical Advisor)
Through engaging with the development of AT technology from the earliest stage, contributed to lower fuel consumption and improved vehicle functionality and performance
For continued implementation of practical engineering education for graduate students concerning product design, manufacture, and test driving, using product design process at enterprises
*Received jointly with Kyushu Institute of Technology Honorary Professor Kazuhiro Tanaka
ADVICS
Kyoko Kosaka (Friction Materials Development Dept.)
For contributions to improved safety through vehicle motion control mechanisms such as ESC, and improved fuel economy through regenerative cooperative brake
(Paper title) A Study on Friction Coefficient Variation between Brake Pad and Disc with Moisture - Consideration of the Variation Mechanism by Focusing on Wear Debris Behavior -*Award received jointly with Toyota Central R&D Labs and Toyota Motor Corporation
Aisin Seiki
Akihito Yamamoto, 2nd Chassis & Vehicle Safety System Engineering Dept.
(Paper t i t le) Study of Practical Observer for Semi-active Suspensions
Aisin Keikinzoku
New President Takes Office June 5
On June 5, Ryuji Nakamura took office as the new president of Aisin Keikinzoku.
How was the special feature on our new President, Mr. Ise? We look forward to hearing your opinions and impressions about this magazine.
Piston for Gasoline Engines
Achieves low-friction performance by applying laser processing technology for surface processing of the piston skirt, contributing to improved fuel economy of vehicles
Jointly developed by Art Metal Mfg. and Aisin Seiki
Piston skirt
Exhaust Manifold Features a newly developed shape that leads exhaust gas smoothly to catalyzation has realized compact size. And it attained 20% reduction of the weight by using thin sheet material.
Aisin Takaoka
Direct Shift-CVT Direct Shift-CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with the world’s first starting gear, enabling top-class gear ratio range and transmission efficiency. And the product achieved outstanding fuel economy, 6% better than the current product, with direct and powerful driving performance. *Jointly developed with Toyota Motor Corporation
Aisin AW
6-Speed FWD MT for Middle Torque Capacity Applications Weight reduced by 7kg and overall length reduced by 24mm, making it one of the world’s most compact and lightweight products of its type. Compatible with iMT control, which supports drivers’ smooth shift operation.
Aisin AI
Adjustable Damping Force Absorber Aisin Seiki has achieved outstanding performance with an integrated system incorporating algorithms that can accurately and quantitatively gauge vehicle state, an absorber with a wide range of adjustable damping force, and an ECU that optimally controls the system.
Aisin Seiki
Outside Door Handle Incorporates an aero stabilizing fin element in a design that adjusts flow of air to improve steering stability. Shape of grip is ergonomically optimized to improve comfortable feel.
Window Regulator Improves lift quality and reduces weight by 0.6kg, by switching from the arm-type regulator of a conventional pressed product to wire-driven ascent and descent.
Shiroki Corporation
New Crown
Tangshan Aisin Gear production line reorganized to commence AT production
Announcement of establishment of joint venture with Chinese automakers
April 24
May 7 Roll-off ceremony heldCeremony held ahead of FWD AT production
Structural Adhesive Strongly bonds steel plates to one another, enhancing the rigidity of structural body parts made with mixture of aluminum and iron for vehicle weight reduction.
Aisin Chemical
*Titles are current at time the awards were received
We Would Like to Get Your Feedback on HELLO WORLD No. 6!
Q u e s t i o n n a i r e s i t e h e r e
https://www.aisin.co.jp/helloworld/index_us.php
Mr. Tsukamoto of Aisin AW (right)
Mr. Nishii of ADVICS (right)
08 09
A federated overseas team
Joint team from Asama Piston and Tatekita Metal in samurai costume
This unstoppable team won their third Ekiden in a row!
Aisin Seiki Foshan Body Parts supporters cheered them on with drums, gongs and a lion dance
The final runner from general category champion “T. E. Bolt A”
Next-up runners waiting for their teammates
Runners get started with smiles
Supporters cheered them on enthusiastically
Giving water to teammates collapsed after finishing their runs
“Dynamite Runners” throwing one another up in the air
Performers in a panda costume livened things up
“Go! Go! Go!”
Fierce competition among the hardcore runners in the top group
Runner from “SHISAKU Runner_A” crossing the finish line as first place in Diversity category
On Apr. 8, one of the Aisin Group’s biggest events, the Aisin Ekiden relay race, was held at Laguna Ten Bosch in Gamagori, Aichi. For this eighth edition, a record high of 683 teams and 7,700 runners competed for the best total time on an eight-section relay, with each runner passing a sash to the next one. 16,700 people gathered at the venue, including participants and their family members from 100 Aisin Group companies in Japan and overseas.
General category (8 sections, 16.2km)
Winner Elite Sewing Machine Mfg “T. E. Bolt A” Record: 51min 25sec
Second place : Aisin Tohoku “Aisin Tohoku” Record: 54min 35sec Third place : Aisin AW “Dynamite Runners” Record: 57min 48sec
The victorious team wiped away the frustration of last year’s second-place finish!
Diversity category (8 sections, 11.7km)
Winner
Second place : Aisin AI “AI Runners” Record: 40min 48sec Third place : Aisin Seiki “Anjo Plant OHNAWATOBIBU A ” Record: 41min 30sec
Aisin Seiki “SHISAKU Runner_A” Record: 39min 47sec
Results
16,700 (7,700 participants / 9,000 supporters)
Runners off to a fine start
The 8th
Aisin Ekiden
10 11
02Vol. Jiangsu
Aisin Sin'ei is constantly striving to manufacture the best products, primarily auto body parts, based on the core technologies of resin molding, plastic processing and surface treatment. In October 2018 the Kota plant will be completed, and an integrated production system will be established, consolidated into two sites, Kota and Konan plants. With the slogan “Communication & Speed,” we will continue aiming to secure Japan's most productive plants to maximize our competitiveness.
AW Suzhou produces ATs for automobiles, and related parts. Since our establishment, we have worked to improve the technical, management, and KAIZEN skills of each and every member, promoting growth of the members and the company with the motto of “Diligent, Cheerful, Happy and Strong” and Safety as the top priority.
Currently, we are working on a system for introducing new future-oriented models as we prepare for a “once-in-a-century transformation of the auto industry.” Moving forward, we will continue delivering the highest quality ATs to our customers.
Address: 2-8-12 Konan-machi, Hekinan, Aichi, Japan Business: Forming, painting and assembly of auto body exterior parts. Plastic processing, welding and assembly of functional auto body parts Press working, welding, and painting of GHP housing Established: Jul. 27, 1961 Employees: 1,276as of March, 2018 Main products: Molded resin and painted products ... center pillar, outside door handle, etc. Pressed parts: electrically retracts seats, crash box, etc.
P R O F I L E
Address: Wuzhong District, Suzhou ,Jiangsu, China Business: Manufacture of ATs and related parts Established: Apr. 11, 2011 Employees: 1,279 (as of May, 2018) Main products: 4-speed FWD AT, standalone parts for CVT, electronic parts for AT
P R O F I L E
F ND AISIN
Created last year, the new presentation room enables exhibits of developed products by which people can intuitively envision products attached to vehicles, based on the concept of “presenting developed products in such a way that customers will want them.”
Mao Uchinokura Research & Development Dept. The pride of Hekinan, which recently celebrated the
70th anniversary of its designation as a city, is its local foodstuff raised in a temperate climate. Don’t miss the famous “Hekinan Yakisoba.” It’s chock full of delicious local flavors, including the soft, sweet “Hekinan Beauty” brand carrots and white soy sauce, which originated in Hekinan.
Atsuo Toyoshima HR Development Dept.
With a history going back 2,500 years, Suzhou City has not only historic castles and scenery, but also boasts a high-tech industrial development zone, offering the best of old and new. Among its most beautiful sights are the Suzhou Classical Gardens, a World Cultural Heritage, and the famous “Shanghai crab” caught in Yangcheng Lake, which attract sightseers from around the world.
Miaoran Shi Assembly Section “S” Manufacturing Dept.
Xiang Ji Gear Production Engineering Section Production Engineering Dept.
Airi Kato General Affairs Dept.
4-speed FWD AT
Enjoy the beautiful flowers of the season as well
P R O D U C T P R O D U C T
Kota Plant of Aisin Sin'ei Headquarters of AW Suzhou
Presentation room Skill Training Dojo
Thoroughly Utilizing Three Core Technologies to Provide “Trusted Products” Worldwide Aiming to be the Most Effective Plant in the Rapidly Changing Chinese Market
AW Suzhou is proud of placing top priority on team members’ growth with a scrupulously thought-out educational system. We can swiftly learn everything from fundamental ideas to practical application at 10 different types of training dojo, focusing on areas like quality, assembly, safety, and skill competition.
AW Suzhou Co., Ltd. (Jiangsu, China)
Aisin Sin'ei Co., Ltd. (Hekinan, Aichi, Japan) Introducing our colleagues playing an active part
in Japan and the world
What kind of area is Hekinan City? “Hekinan Yakisoba (stir-fried noodles with various ingredients)” and “Hekinan Beauty” carrots.
The Humble Administrator' s Garden in the winter snow
What our
What kind of area is Suzhou?

What our
Tell us how you spend your holidays!
Every year during the Golden Week holidays in late April and early May, I visit the Tonami Tulip Fair, where you can see three million colorful blooming tulips, the major agricultural product of Tonami in Toyama Prefecture. Recently, a stunning and very popular attraction is “Flower Valley” that recreates the “Snow Valley” on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route in tulips.
V isiting the Tonami Tulip Fair
During long-term holidays I pretty much always play golf. Since I joined the company I’ve gotten hooked on golf, and when I look around me, both my co-workers and friends are all fellow golfers. Thanks to this I never have any trouble rounding up members! When there are long-term holidays I spend half the time playing golf, as many as three rounds on a three-day trip. Summer or winter, I’ll play in any kind of weather!
G olf to my heart’s content
Masataka Ando Sales Dept. / Hosei Brake
During the holidays it’s important to me to spend time with my family. I play the piano with my son, and all of us run around a big park together. Afterward we have lunch and coffee at “Bal Musette,” a café I’ve been visiting since I was single, and relax and recharge our energy.
R est and relaxation for the whole family!
Michihito Ono Administration Group / AT Tohoku
Easter is a joyful family event that is celebrated at the end of Lent by coloring Easter eggs as a family. Kids can enjoy using their imaginations to paint eggs, and the whole extended family gets excited about Easter egg hunts where you search for plastic eggs containing prizes. The children are delighted on Easter morning when the Easter Bunny brings sweets and toys. Easter is a time look forward to spending with my family every year.
E aster fun for the whole family
Eric Archambeau Body Components Group
Exterior / Design Assurance Aisin Technical Center of America
Our family loves to go on trips to various beaches. We swim in the sea, make sandcastles with the kids, and take it easy together. Besides the beach, children enjoy activities like miniature golf and go-karts. I look forward to the vacation every year!
F amily trips to the beach!
Stacy Plunkett Human Resources
ADVICS North America
To recover from day-to-day fatigue, I enjoy sightseeing in my free time. I try to get around by my own car as much as possible and enjoy the trip as well as the destination. I recently went to Ishikawa Prefecture and visited Kenrokuen Garden, Omi-cho Market, Kanazawa Station and others to enjoy local delicacies such as blackthroat seaperch, and fresh seafood. Right now I’m working hard every day, while in my leisure time I’m working toward my goal of visiting all 47 prefectures in Japan!
S eeing the sights
The sight of three million tulips
is breathtaking!
Nuts about golf
Spending time with family is
a source of energy!
Noriyasu Yamamura Administration Dept. / Tonamino Kogyo
The blackthroat seaperch was unforgettable!
Approximately 110,000 team members are working in the Aisin Group, which contains more than 200 companies worldwide. In this section, people from various countries and regions appear and talk about diverse fun topics!
14 15
Message from TAP team members
NEWS Toyota Motor Corporation’ s MT Manufacturer
Toyota Autoparts Philippines, Inc. Joins Aisin Group A new start with a new name: Toyota Aisin Philippines, Inc.
Toyota Motor Corporation and Aisin have agreed to make MT manufacturer Toyota Autoparts Philippines, Inc. (TAP) Aisin's subsidiary so as to strengthen competitiveness in the MT business. Aisin is happy to welcome TAP to the Aisin Group. Let’s look into the context of this news a bit.
New Company Profile Name: Toyota Aisin Philippines, Inc. Location: Santa Rosa City, Laguna Province, Philippines Capital: 1 billion pesos (approx. 2.2 billion yen) Representative: President Hiroshi Fukutani Main business: Manufacture of MTs and constant velocity joint
At a company-wide meeting
Manila Bay Manila Bay*Titles are as of May 24
How is the MT business being rearranged? In November 2014, Toyota, Aisin Seiki and Aisin AI agreed to
consolidate MT-related functions spanning two companies
(Toyota and Aisin AI) into a single company, Aisin AI.
Development and production function in Japan were transferred
from Toyota to Aisin AI by January 2017. In January 2016, Aisin
Seiki acquired some stake in Toyota Autoparts Philippines and
has been participating in business management.
Aisin’s equity participation in TAP is being raised from 34% to
61%, and the company is being renamed Toyota Aisin
Philippines, Inc. Aisin will take the lead in managing the new
company's business operations.
Also, some of MT production will be moved from Aisin AI to TAP,
utilizing the high production capacity of TAP to boost production
efficiency. Also, to strengthen production of ATs for which
demand is increasing, we will begin production of AT parts at
TAP, making full use of TAP’s technology and expertise.
What’s the plan moving forward?
What kind of company is TAP? TAP is one of the Toyota’s global supply bases for MT, mainly
exporting to ASEAN (the Association of South East Asian
Nations), South Africa, and Latin America.
Established: August 1990 Sales: 9.167 billion pesos (approx. 20 billion yen) (FY2017 results) Employees: Approx. 1,350 (as of March 2018) No. of MT produced: Approx. 230,000 units (FY2017 results) *Currency exchange rate: 1 Philippine peso = 2.18 yen
DATA
In this section, we dig deeper into some hot news stories about the Aisin Group! In-depth commentary answers your questions about what our Group is up to right now. Get to know the Aisin Group better with the latest info!
May 24, 2018 marked an epoch in the history of Toyota Autoparts Philippines (TAP), now Toyota Aisin Philippines! We look forward to working closely with Aisin Group starting with AT parts and achieve our longtime dream of “made-in-the-Philippines” AT.
Right: Emmanuel Mendoza/GM of General Administration Div. Left: Anita Antonio/Deputy GM of General Administration Div.
Located in Santa Rosa City, Laguna Province, approx.
40km south of Manila
Philippines Vice Chairman Mr. Ty, Toyota Motor
Managing Officer Mr. Matsuda, Aisin Seiki President
Mr. Ihara, TAP President Mr. Fukutani
Aisin Group Network Magazine Ju ly , 2018 No.06
Aisin Group Network Magazine “HELLO WORLD” No.06 (July, 2018) Published byHELLO WORLD Production Committee Contact information Public Affairs Dept., Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd. 2-1 Asahi-machi, Kariya, Aichi, 448-8650, Japan TEL +81-566-24-8233
Announcedon