Kanan Town, MK Kanko Bus, and Hyundai Sign Agreement on Electric Bus Utilization for Disaster Relief

Overview On May 22, 2026, Kanan town, Osaka Prefecture, signed a "Disaster Cooperation Agreement and Next-Generation Electric Vehicle Presentation Ceremony" with MK Kanko Bus Co., Ltd. and Hyundai Mobility Japan, aiming to strengthen coordination during natural disasters.

Purpose of the Agreement With the intensification of natural disasters, this agreement aims to build a new disaster-preparedness system using electric mobility. The three parties—Kanan town, MK Kanko Bus, and Hyundai—will collaborate to support shelter operations and enhance overall disaster resilience.

Key Initiatives Hyundai Mobility Japan will donate its next-generation flagship EV, the "IONIQ 5," which features Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) external power supply capabilities. The vehicle will be used as a government car during normal times and as an emergency power source for shelters during disasters. Together with the deployment of the "ELEC CITY TOWN" electric bus operated by MK Kanko Bus, the initiative aims to contribute to the community in both normal and disaster scenarios, alongside promoting decarbonization.

Representative Comments Mayor Shogo Morita of Kanan town emphasized the importance of securing electricity in shelters and expressed his high expectations for the contribution to local disaster resilience. Toshiyuki Shimegi, President of Hyundai Mobility Japan, pledged to contribute to a sustainable society and support local communities. Tatsuya Kanemoto, President of MK Kanko Bus, reflected on his long-standing relationship with the town and expressed his joy in contributing to a system that provides peace of mind to residents.

About Kanan Town Located in the southeastern part of Osaka Prefecture, Kanan town is known for its rich nature and historical heritage. This collaboration serves as an integrated public-private solution to two critical goals: promoting the town as a zero-carbon city and strengthening local disaster preparedness.