Terra Motors joins in electrifying Okinawa’s EV transport landscape

In the picturesque Okinawa Prefecture, where biodiversity is globally celebrated and natural beauty abounds, Terra Motors Corporation, a pioneer in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, is on a mission to make EVs more accessible and contribute to a carbon-neutral society by 2050. As an initial endeavor, Terra Charge’s EV charging infrastructure will be introduced at various facilities in Ginowan City and throughout Okinawa Prefecture. With the support of partner agents, Terra Motors aims to expand this initiative further.

Okinawa’s pristine landscapes, recognized as World Natural Heritage sites in July 2021, have made the prefecture one of Japan’s most sought-after tourist destinations. However, despite its charm, Okinawa faces a challenge: about 90% of transportation within the prefecture is by car, far exceeding the national average of 66%. Yet, with most trips spanning a mere 30-minute drive, the region is ripe for EV adoption, offering drivers ample opportunity to efficiently charge their vehicles. As the transportation sector, primarily automobiles, contributes to about 30% of CO2 emissions, there is a growing expectation for CO2 emission reduction through vehicle electrification.

Globally, EVs account for about 20% of new car sales in China, 10% in Europe, and 5% in the US. In stark contrast, Japan lags with a mere 1.71% market share, spurring the demand for widespread EV charging infrastructure. Although Okinawa Prefecture already hosts 147 public charging stations, many are plagued by insufficient maintenance and aging infrastructure, rendering them difficult to use.

Terra Motors’ Terra Charge boasts a top-class record for introducing EV charging infrastructure in condominiums and has been successively chosen for large-scale installations in collaboration with major companies and local governments at travel destinations, including hotels. To accelerate the electrification of automobiles in areas with high usage rates, the company is entering the EV charging service market in Okinawa Prefecture, with plans to establish 300 EV charging infrastructures within a year.

As a first step, Terra Motors will develop EV charging infrastructure at facilities such as hotels and condominiums, creating a regionally-rooted network that connects tourist hubs and restaurants. This initiative aims to promote automobile-based travel and consumption activities while offering convenient charging services in both condominiums and travel destinations.