Yokohama Kotsu Implements 'HYPER WATER' System Across All Operations, Boosting Efficiency by Eliminating Wipe-Downs

Marfied Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa; Representative Director: Hiroshi Ikeda, hereinafter 'Marfied') announces that Yokohama Kotsu Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Isogo-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa; Representative Director: Kensei Ogura, hereinafter 'Yokohama Kotsu') has implemented the 'HYPER WATER' ultrapure water car wash system across all of its locations.

This implementation eliminates the conventional post-wash wiping process, significantly streamlining car wash operations and reducing the burden on drivers and staff.

■ Background: Addressing Chronic Workload and Labor Shortages
In the taxi industry, daily car washing is essential, but it is often performed by the drivers themselves, posing a significant burden after shifts. Post-wash wiping, in particular, is time-consuming and labor-intensive, creating a need for improvements in operational efficiency and work-life balance.

Against this backdrop, Yokohama Kotsu installed 'HYPER WATER' in all its branches in September 2025 to improve efficiency and reduce the workload for employees.

■ Benefits: Reduced Burden and Enhanced Interior Cleaning Quality
The 'HYPER WATER' dedicated car wash system purifies water to the A4 level, the highest standard of JIS K0557. By removing impurities that cause water spots at the molecular level, vehicles do not retain water spots after natural drying, allowing for the omission of wiping processes.

Yokohama Kotsu has reported the following benefits:

- Streamlining Operations and Reducing Labor: Saved 10-30 minutes per taxi, previously spent on wiping, contributing to increased operating time and reducing workload during peak seasons or post-shift hours.
- Standardizing Cleaning Quality: Achieved stable exterior quality regardless of operator skill level or environment, ensuring a uniform finish even on dark-colored vehicles.
- Improving Interior Cleaning: Utilizing towels washed and dampened with ultrapure water, the company has enhanced interior cleaning for windows, dashboards, and resin parts, reducing the need for second wipes.

As public transportation, taxi cleanliness—both exterior and interior—is crucial for service quality. This initiative contributes to operational efficiency while maintaining vehicle cleanliness and improving customer satisfaction.

■ Driver Feedback
- Driver A: 'The removal of wiping tasks from car washing, which was sweaty in the summer and freezing in the winter, has been a significant physical relief.'
- Driver B: 'Using HYPER WATER eliminated the need for waxing, and car wash time has been reduced by more than half. I can go home earlier and enjoy more private time.'

■ Expectations for Improved Work Environment and Recruitment
Reducing the car wash burden contributes to employee satisfaction, and Yokohama Kotsu expects mid-to-long-term benefits including a better workplace environment, higher retention rates, and increased recruitment competitiveness.