Via announces partnership to expand into Japan

Via has announced a partnership with ITOCHU Corporation and Mori Building Company. Following the August 2018 launch of HillsVia, a commuter service for Mori employees, the new partnership will allow Via to expand its on-demand transportation solutions whilst solving transit issues across Japan.

Daniel Ramot, Co-Founder and CEO of Via, said: “We are delighted for ITOCHU and Mori Building to join us as strategic partners and investors. ITOCHU’s vision to transform mobility infrastructure and Mori Building’s record in innovating urban living make both companies invaluable partners as we work to provide mobility solutions that are smart, efficient, and help to reduce congestion and emissions in Japan.”

Via can integrate with existing fixed-route transportation infrastructure, helping to fill in gaps where existing transit isn’t easily accessible. Via’s technology efficiently works to aggregate multiple passengers into shared vehicles, reducing single-occupancy vehicle trips, thus improving traffic congestion and curtailing carbon emissions. The easy-to-use mobile interface is suited to riders of all ages.

As one of the country’s largest general trading companies, ITOCHU  understands investing in transformative technologies like Via that will both innovate transportation and solve local governments’ most pressing issues. Via’s technology and operational experience is uniquely suited to the Japanese market.

Shunsuke Noda, ITOCHU Chief Digital & Information Officer, said: “We are excited to partner with Via to support a more convenient transportation system in Japan. We believe that Via’s cutting-edge solution will be widely accepted in the Japanese market through strategic partnerships with existing transportation operators.”

Masahiko Ogasawara, a Director & Executive Managing Officer for Mori Building, said: “Via’s solution will contribute to solving the problems of urban transportation such as traffic congestion and environmental pollution. This service will improve city life by increasing transportation options in urban areas.”