Topics

Jul.2010

P.T. Sanoh Receives Commendations for Quality from Four Main Customers

P.T. Sanoh Indonesia, the Sanoh Group's base of operations in Indonesia, has received commendations and letters of appreciation in recognition of the quality of Sanoh products from four of its main customers (P.T. Hino Motors Manufacturing (HMMI), P.T. Kawasaki Motor Indonesia, P.T. Aisan Nasmoco Industri, and Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia).

The multiple awards are validation of the high level of quality achieved in all Sanoh products. Among them, the Best Quality Award from HMMI was acknowledgement of P.T. Sanoh's continued efforts to reduce process defects and accomplishment of delivering zero defective products in 2009.

Jun.2010

Special Lump-Sum Payment Issued as Reimbursement for Reduced Wages during Downturn

Sanoh is focused on the ideal of lifetime employment for employees. This is based on the mindset of our top management that follows a policy of Always Be One Step Ahead in anticipation of the decline in the future working population.

The worldwide financial crisis that began in 2008 had a serious impact on the automotive industry. In this severe business environment, labor and management cooperated to swiftly realize a variety of measures, beginning with the return of a portion of executive compensation and management wage cuts, and followed by the implementation of temporary shutdowns and work-sharing for general employees, in order to secure employment by spreading the pain reasonably among all employees.

At the same time, sweeping structural reforms were carried out, including an overhaul of production processes and the streamlining of operations, and the entire company came together to strive to restore business performance. The outcome had a direct impact on performance in the fiscal year ending March 2010: Although sales were below the results of the first half of the year, operating profit and recurring profit both drastically improved, and the profit plan targeted at the beginning of the year was significantly exceeded.

In April of this year, as a reward for the efforts to achieve profitability for the period ending March 2010, a special lump-sum payment was issued to all employees. This, too, came from a decision based on our top management's aim of Always Be One Step Ahead. In addition, as a way of returning this profit to our shareholders, the decision was made to distribute a year-end dividend of 9 yen per share (a 5-yen increase over the previous period).

Sanoh will continue to give careful consideration to employees, shareholders and every kind of stakeholder, and will aim to fulfill our corporate social responsibility through our core business, the manufacture of automotive components.

May.2010

STI Sanoh Receives Gold Award from Honda Siel Cars India

STI Sanoh India Ltd., the Sanoh Group's base of operations in India, has been awarded the 2010 Gold Award in Cost from Honda Siel Cars India Ltd. (HSCI).

Each year, HSCI presents awards to the top three suppliers in Quality, Delivery, Cost and other categories. STI Sanoh supplies HSCI with brake and fuel tubes for the City, Jazz, Accord, Civic, and other models, and continuously strives for the localization of production. The 2010 Gold Award is recognition of our contribution through these efforts to the reduction of component procurement costs for HSCI.

STI Sanoh has previously received the Silver Award (1998) and Bronze Award (2009) in the Quality category, and the Bronze Award (2008) in the Delivery category. On this fourth occasion of receiving an HSCI award, STI Sanoh was the recipient of the Gold Award, which designates the best supplier in the category.

Apr.2010

Sanoh Expands Global Operations with New U.S. Plant

Sanoh America, Inc., a subsidiary company of Sanoh, has acquired land and buildings in Archbold, Ohio, USA and launched operations as the Sanoh Group's 45th production base in 19 countries across the globe. The facility becomes the 5th Sanoh tubing production base in the world, joining those in Japan, China, India, and Thailand.

The new Archbold Plant is located on a land area of 60,704 square meter (15 acres) and features over 22,300 square meter (240,000 sq. ft.) of floor space for the production of automotive tubular products, such as Brazed Steel Tubing and Welded Steel Tubing, which is now underway.

The Sanoh Group will continue our efforts to further improve the stable supply and quality of our automotive tubular products for our customers around the world.

Mar.2010

ASICO Receives Mitsubishi Motors Thailand Quality Achievement Award

Able Sanoh Industries (1996) Co., Ltd. (ASICO), the Sanoh Group's base of operations in Thailand, has been awarded the 2009 Quality Achievement Award from Mitsubishi Motors (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (MMTh).

The Quality Achievement Award is presented once a year to suppliers that have achieved supply quality targets, and this year 22 out of 173 companies were chosen for the award. ASICO supplies filler neck tubes and brake tubing to MMTh, and was given the award in acknowledgment for having reduced the number of defects as well as for its rapid response to the occurrence of a defect.

Sanoh will continue to strive to improve customer satisfaction by providing critical safety products of the highest quality.

Feb.2010

Racing at the Japan EV Festival

On November 3, 2009 the Sanoh electric vehicle (EV) racing team, EV Dreams, participated in the 15th Annual Japan EV Festival at the Tsukuba Circuit in Ibaraki prefecture.

EV Dreams has been participating in the event every year since 1997. The 1-hour endurance-class Convert EV 1-Hour Distance Challenge in which the team took part was the eleventh Festival race for EV Dreams, more than that for any other of the 24 participating teams. EV Dreams is a collective effort by volunteer Sanoh employees, and the team owns two electric automobiles: the Coupe EV (Suzuki Fronte Coupe base) and the Beat EV (Honda Beat base). Both EVs are equipped with Ni-MH batteries developed by Sanoh, and to date they have participated in 33 races in total and have had 13 championships. This year, the team participated with the Beat EV vehicle and achieved a ranking of 8th place out of the 17 vehicles that completed the race.

The number of new people wishing to participate in EV Dreams has been increasing, and as the next team activity, the group is planning to develop an electric racing cart. Sanoh continues to support young employees that undertake the challenge toward a creative spirit for the handmade.

Dec.2009

The Globalization of Sanoh

Since the establishment of our first overseas base, P.T. Sanoh Indonesia, in 1978, Sanoh has been actively working toward the globalization of our operations.

At the time of our initial expansion overseas, Sanoh undertook training courses in Business Management conducted by the Association for Overseas Technical Scholarship (AOTS*) with the intention of contributing to the development of Southeast Asian countries. Over this period between 1985 and 1998, Sanoh's top management also hosted lectures on management techniques as well as plant tours for visiting executives from countries throughout Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

At the recent AOTS 50th Anniversary Ceremony held on October 28, 2009, Sanoh received a certificate of appreciation in acknowledgement of our achievements in undertaking the training over many years.

Now, 30 years after our first advance overseas, Sanoh is focused on the Globalization of Human Resources, recruiting foreign trainees with diverse nationalities and enhancing the training education of the staff at our subsidiary companies abroad. In addition, each year Sanoh convenes an annual Global Operations Conference in Japan attended by the top management from our 44 production facilities in 19 countries worldwide to promote and strengthen mutual communication across the group.

Sanoh will continue with our efforts toward globalization in line with the changing times.

*AOTS (The Association for Overseas Technical Scholarship) is the specialized agency under the control of Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry focused on the training of engineers and managers in developing countries and promoting technical assistance from Japan.
URL: http://www.aots.or.jp/

Nov.2009

Nurturing the Spirit of "Taking Care of What You Have"

This month marks the passage of one year since the Sanoh Child House Sakuranbo on-site childcare center opened its doors.

The childcare center works to nurture the spirit of "taking care of what you have", and as part of this, whenever a toy breaks, it is later repaired while the children look on. The toys are repaired by Sanoh employees with electrical engineering qualifications who volunteer for the task, and the occasion becomes an opportunity for interaction with the children. The children learn from the experience that rather than throwing away a toy that hold countless memories, if they repair it instead, they will be able to play with it again. This enables them to feel the joys of a spirit for the handmade, and compared to the past, the children have all come to treat their playthings with greater care.

Sanoh will continue to seek opportunities for education to nurture the rich spirit of the children.

Oct.2009

"Greenery Curtains": A Wall Greening Initiative

Sanoh has been undertaking a variety of activities with a focus on energy conservation. Our most recent effort, launched at the start of this year, is a company-wide wall greening initiative.

Wall greening is the use of climbing plants, such as bitter gourd and morning glory, and nets for the purpose of cover widows and wall surfaces with foliage. The practice has been shown to be effective in limiting the increase in room temperatures due to sunlight. In 2007, Sanoh's Shiga Factory implemented wall greening and was able to reduce electricity usage for air conditioning by approximately 10%.
Following the successful experience at the Shiga Factory, wall greening activities were commenced company-wide in 2009. Knowledge on seeding times and planting methods was collected from every department, and employees worked together to implement a variety of innovative solutions, such as the installation of convenient timers to enable the automatic supply of water.

Although the growth of the greenery was delayed due to fewer hours of daylight this year, as a result of this experience, we plan to expand the wall greening initiative even further next year.

Sep.2009

Sanoh Employee Wins Contest with Customized Electric Vehicle

On June 14, 2009 a member of Sanoh exhibited his customized classic car at a festival for classic-car fans held at Kanto Industrial College in Konosu, Ibaraki prefecture, and was among the winners of the Most Popular Vehicle contest.
The employee had customized his 1974 car to convert it into an electric-powered vehicle. The car attracted considerable attention from other festival participants due to the fact that it runs on an electric motor despite being over 35 years old, and it was voted one of the most popular 15 cars out of the 120 entries in the festival's Most Popular Vehicle contest.
The car was also displayed at another exhibition held on August 9 as a part of an open campus day at the college.
The "Made in Sanoh" culture - Sanoh's spirit for the handmade - can be seen even in employees' outside activities, such as this. Sanoh will continue to support the members of our staff to cultivate their own creativity and motivation for research and development.

Aug.2009

Sanoh Receives Quality Improvement Award from Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.

Sanoh has received the 2008 Quality Improvement Award from Fuji Heavy Industries, Ltd. (Subaru).
The award is recognition of our company's achievement of zero quality defects in 2008 and the fact that our level of quality surpassed that of both the previous year as well as the year before.
Sanoh will further step up our efforts in quality improvement with the aim of continuing to achieve zero quality defects in the future.

Jul.2009

Sanoh Product Adopted in New Toyota Prius

Sanoh's Filler Neck Tube has been adopted in the new Toyota Prius model released for sale in North America in May 2009. The Filler Neck Tube connects the fuel filler tube opening to the fuel tank.

The new third-generation Prius achieves the world's highest level of fuel efficiency and dynamic performance by improving the energy efficiency of the overall vehicle.

Sanoh's Filler Neck Tube is made from material that is less expensive than ever before and possesses a high fuel barrier performance level to prevent the emission of harmful substances into atmosphere, which contributed to the new Prius' successful clearing of the PZEV regulations - the strictest exhaust emissions regulations in North America. The Filler Neck Tube has been adopted in all of the new Prius vehicles in North America.

Sanoh's low-emission parts, including the Filler Neck Tube, are anticipated to have a promising future in the automotive industry, and we will continue to manufacture and develop products that are high in quality and low in price.

Jun.2009

PT Sanoh Receives Best Quality Performance Award from PT Honda Prospect Motor

PT Sanoh, a Sanoh Group production base located in Indonesia, received the 2008 Quality Performance Award at the 5th Annual Supplier Conference Meeting hosted by PT Honda Prospect Motor.
PT Sanoh produces parts for the Honda Fit compact car. This award is a validation of the company’s high level of customer satisfaction and its achievement of zero quality defects throughout 2008.

The Sanoh Group will continue to make consistent efforts with the aim of providing high-quality products to all of our customers around the world.

May.2009

Sanoh Supports Formula-SAE Racing Activities at Ibaraki University

In February 2009, Sanoh began providing tube processing technology for activities conducted by the Ibaraki University Formula SAE Team (Ibaraki University Racing, "IUR") [1]. Every year, IUR participates in the Student Formula SAE Competition of Japan [2] hosted by the Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan Inc. (JSAE), and creates formula machines with their own hands in order to compete in the tournament.

Sanoh made the decision to support IUR in admiration of their enthusiasm and motivation to achieve a goal through their own efforts, despite restrictions such as cost, performance, safety requirements, etc.; moreover, the activities are also in line with our philosophy of continuing to seek a unique style as an enterprise of hand-crafted creation. It is our sincere hope that our technology will help students learn about the essence of manufacturing and to realize its rigor, its fascination and its gratification.

With our focus on the future of manufacturing, Sanoh will continue to contribute to the cultivation of tomorrow's engineers.

[1] IUR was established in 1994 as the first racing team operated by university students in Ibaraki Prefecture. All of the group's activities - from the planning, design and production of the machines that will participate in the tournaments, to the team's operations, financing, external affairs and public relations - are managed exclusively by students.

[2] An automobile competition hosted by the Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan Inc. (JSAE). 　Its aim is to "develop independent comprehensive manufacturing skills among students in order to cultivate the human resources that will lead the future of the automotive industry".

Please visit the official IUR website at the following URL:

>> http://www.iur-family.com/index.php

Apr.2009

Sanoh Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom

Sanoh's Koga Plant is home to 78 cherry trees of different blossoming varieties, including the Yoshino cherry, double-flowered cherry and weeping cherry.

As it has been cold this year during the traditional cherry-blossom season, the trees reached full bloom one week later than last year, and it is now currently the best time for viewing the cherry blossoms. The abundant pink flowers of the 60-year-old Yoshino cherry trees create a beautiful contrast with the blue sky during the day, and at night, the moonlight shining on the petals creates a wondrous sight.

The cherry trees in Koga Plant are well-known by local residents as one of the major cherry-blossom viewing spots in the city.

Apr.2009

Sanoh Products Adopted in New Honda Insight Hybrid

The new Honda Insight, with its superior environmental performance, has been meeting the needs of the market with precision such that monthly sales goals have been substantially exceeded, leading Honda to announce an increase in production to begin in April.

A number of Sanoh products are adopted in the new Insight, including engine parts, Fuel Injection Rails (FIRs), chassis parts, and brake and fuel tube cluster assemblies.

A key feature of Sanoh’s Fuel Injection Rails (FIRs) is that they reduce the pulsation generated by the injector when spraying fuel. Weight savings are also realized from a reduction in the number of parts.
In addition, cluster tubes are assemblies of composite tubes for fuel delivery utilizing a self-developed plastic tubing material with high corrosion resistance and fuel barrier performance that help improve environmental performance.

Feb.2009

Our Trainee from Overseas to Pass the Grade 3 Level of the National Skills Test for Machine Inspection Services for the First time in Japan

Sanoh actively provides personnel training and technical guidance to employees of our overseas subsidiary companies.

Recently, a technical intern at Sanoh became the first applicant in Japan to successfully pass the Grade 3 Level of the National Trade Skills Test for machine inspection services, which is the most difficult of all of the technical skill tests administered to trainees from overseas. In recognition of the accomplishment of on-the-job training that led to this success, he received a monetary reward from the Japan International Training Cooperation Organization (JITCO).

Sanoh additionally presented him with the President Award due to his success on the test being the result of his outstanding effort as well as serving as a model not only for other trainees from overseas but for all employees as a whole.

In the future, he will play a vital role as a leader in the subsidiary company in his home country.

Jan.2009

Happy New Year from our Production Facilities around the World

Sanoh currently operates 45 production facilities in 19 countries worldwide, including Japan. We have received New Year’s photographs from our facilities in each country with messages of encouragement for us to work together to do our best again the year ahead.

In the languages of each country, we join together to say “Happy New Year!”

Dec.2008

Trainee from Overseas Receives Outstanding Performance Award in Japanese Writing Contest

Sanoh is actively committed to improving the knowledge and expertise of all employees, and as part of these efforts, works to cultivate the skills of trainees from overseas. The Japanese language class operated on-site for trainees from overseas provides support to trainees with entering the Japanese Writing Contest for Trainees and Technical Interns conducted by the Japan International Training Cooperation Organization (JITCO). In this year's 16th annual contest, a trainee at Sanoh received the Outstanding Performance Award - the second-highest award in the contest - out of a total of 4,646 applicants.

The trainee who received the award had known only a few greetings in Japanese when she first arrived in Japan, but her efforts since she began learning Japanese have enabled her to receive the Outstanding Performance Award after the brief period of only seven months. Her prize-winning submission, entitled "Smile: The International Language", is about the importance of smiles, and was inspired by the smiles that she has received from Sanoh employees during the course of her training program.

In recognition of her great achievement, Sanoh additionally presented her with the President Award.

Oct.2008

Trainee from Overseas Subsidiary Passes Grade 1 Level of National Trade Skills Test

Sanoh regularly accepts employees of overseas subsidiary companies to come to Japan as trainees in order to provide leadership development for the purpose of enhancing competitiveness in human resources on a global scale. To achieve maximum effectiveness, we utilize an On-The-Job Training System. Trainees who will return to overseas subsidiaries to take on leadership and management roles are required to pass the Basic Grade 2 level of the National Trade Skills Test, an assessment of basic skills. The current pass rate for trainees visiting Sanoh from overseas subsidiaries is 100%.

Recently, a trainee at Sanoh passed the Basic Grade 1 level of the National Trade Skills Test national examination. Although the Grade 1 level is usually positioned as a goal for the third year of training, this trainee’s strong eagerness to acquire new skills has enabled him to take and pass the test in only his second year after coming to Japan. He will be expected to play a vital role upon his return to his home country.

Jun.2008

Quality and Environmental Initiatives from the Introduction of Robotization

Since April of 2007, Sanoh has been advancing the introduction of robotized processes into our production facilities with the goal of improving product quality and strengthening environmental efforts.
As a result of this robotization, we have achieved increases in quality and productivity, process improvements, the generalization of equipment, and space conservation.
In addition, by converting from traditional air pressure- and hydraulic-based power to motorized systems, it is possible to reduce energy consumption in production processes and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
We are also investigating further applications such as the improvement of manufacturing accuracy through a fusion with image processing technology, etc.
Sanoh will continue to actively introduce robotized processes into not only our plants within Japan, but also into our production bases overseas with the aim of standardizing production quality and stable supply around the world.

May.2008

Environmental Initiatives (Promotion of Environmental Conservation Activities)

Sanoh has been advancing efforts to contribute to the conservation of the global environment, recognizing Environmental Conservation as a significant business challenge.

In addition to the development of an environment management system*, Sanoh achieved zero emissions in 2007 as a result of the elimination of the use of four environmental impact materials (lead, mercury, cadmium and hexavalent chromium) and the separation and recycling of waste materials. As a challenge for reducing levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), which is said to be the primary factor contributing to global warming, we are actively working on the research and development of new technologies such as the introduction of energy-saving equipment including high-efficiency electronic robotics for our internal production equipment, the innovation of our production processes and the effective utilization of waste heat.

In addition, each and every Sanoh employee has committed to continuous local energy-saving activities such as regulating the power usage of lights and computer equipment and promoting environmentally-conscious conservation activities at all times.

Sanoh will continue to examine our influence on the environment and develop environmentally-friendly business activities to help further conserve and protect the world around us.

* Five of Sanoh's principle business locations have obtained ISO 14001 certification since March 2002.

Mar.2008

Redesign of Employment Information Content

Sanoh has recently redesigned the employment information area of our website.

The new employment information pages were designed in order to enhance the content, such as features of the company, messages from senior associates who are active in each division, etc., based on the concept of "From Japan to the World", a key phrase for our recruiting activities.

We will continue to improve our website content with the aim of providing employment information to promote a better understanding of our company.

* Sanoh holds company information sessions for job-hunting students for recruitment in 2009. The sessions feature various programs including open discussions with senior associates who are active in each division, plant tours of production and product development sites, etc.

Sanoh also actively recruits students from overseas throughout the year in order to increase diversity within our personnel.

For Sanoh employment information (in Japanese), please visit the following

>> http://www.sanoh.com/flash/japanese/recruit/index.htm

Feb.2008

Sanoh Products Adopted in New Model Honda Fit

A number of Sanoh products have been adopted in Honda’s new model Fit, which was named the 2007-2008 Japan Car of the Year and the 2007-2008 Japan Automotive Hall of Fame Car of the Year.

The primary Sanoh products being utilized in the Fit (also known as the Jazz in some regions) are tubular products such as cluster tubes for brake and fuel lines and engine parts such as fuel injection rails (FIRs).

Cluster tubes are a combined assembly of brake tubes with high corrosion resistance and composite tubes for fuel delivery using plastic tubing developed by Sanoh with a high level of fuel barrier performance, which can also contribute to the containment of global warming.

Meanwhile, Sanoh FIRs have the function of reducing the amount of noise generated by the injector within the product itself, a unique feature of our design. As a result, parts previously needed for noise reduction can be eliminated, thus achieving a reduction in the number of overall components and realizing vehicle weight savings.

Sanoh will continue to offer functional products in accordance with customer needs such as improvements in environment performance and weight savings.

Jan.2008

Sanoh Brake/Fuel Tubes Adopted in Suzuki "Splash" Compact Car

Sanoh's brake and fuel tubes have been adopted in the upcoming Suzuki "Splash," a compact car model scheduled to be marketed in Europe in Spring 2008 as the next phase in the automaker's global strategy. The brake and fuel products are being manufactured at Sanoh Magyar Kft., Sanoh's new manufacturing facility located adjacent the Magyar Suzuki Corporation in Hungary.

Sanoh Magyar Kft. is a 100% subsidiary of Sanoh that was established in Hungary in November 2006 for the purpose of expanding the European operations of the Sanoh Group. Operations commenced in August 2007.

>> Click here for information about Sanoh Magyar Kft.

Dec.2007

Aid for Flood Disaster in Tabasco, Mexico

On November 7, 2007 SANMEX, one of Sanoh's overseas subsidiaries located in Aguascalientes, Mexico, sent food provisions and other necessities in cooperation with 10 Japanese manufacturers to the disaster-stricken district in the state of Tabasco, which has been suffering from severe flood damage as a result of heavy rains since the end of October.
Approximately 80 employees from SANMEX took part in assistance activities, such as packing supplies and making arrangements for shipping.

Nov.2007

Dual-Partition Intake Manifold Awarded Invention Encouragement Prize

On Monday, October 22, 2007 the 2007 Central Japan Invention Awards Ceremony* was held at the Westin Nagoya Castle Hotel in Nagoya, Japan. At the event, the Dual-Partition Intake Manifold (Registration Number: 3395060), a patent owned jointly by Sanoh and Aichi Machine Industry Co., Ltd. was awarded an Invention Encouragement Prize.

The Dual-Partition Intake Manifold can be formed with aluminium casting since a surge tank is partitioned into two parts. The product also creates a positive environmental impact through the improvement of fuel efficiency by reducing vehicle weight with the use of aluminium pipe.

* Formal name: "2007 Central Japan Invention Awards Ceremony in Commemoration of the 100-Year Anniversary of the Founding of the Aichi Branch of the Japan Institute of Invention and Innovation."
Regional Inventors awards ceremonies have been held since 1921 for the purpose of fostering and cultivating inventions in each region by commending researchers, engineers, etc., whose achievements have contributed to the advancement of technology and promotion of local industry.

>> Click here for information about Aluminum Intake Manifolds

Oct.2007

AEDs Placed in All Domestic Sanoh Business and Sales Offices

As part of a series of comprehensive health and safety environmental measures, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)* have recently been placed in all Sanoh business offices and sales offices throughout Japan - a total of 10 facilities.

In addition, Emergency Medical Training Sessions were conducted in each business office, during which members of local fire departments provided cardio-pulmonary resuscitation instruction including AED operation to a total of 71 Sanoh employees. In the training sessions, practical exercises were carried out using CPR (Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation) training mannequins.

Sanoh will continue to implement important and worthwhile measures to further improve working conditions for all employees.

＊An AED is a portable electric device that automatically diagnoses whether defibrillation (an electric shock to the heart) is required, and restores cardiac movement to normal functioning in the event of cardiac arrest. In the case of sudden cardiac death, 70 percent of patients will survive if defibrillation is administered within 3 minutes of cardiac arrest.
It is said that for every minute of delay, the chance of survival decreases by 7 to 10 percent; for this reason, immediate defibrillation treatment is the key to resuscitation.

Sep.2007

Plastic Tubing Production Totals One-and-a-Half Laps Around the Earth

Total production of plastic tubing at Sanoh has reached over 60,000 km. This length is equivalent to one-and-a-half times the circumference of the earth. (In-house production of plastic tubing began in 1996.)

Recently, demand for plastic products, which contribute to reducing vehicle weight, has been growing amid environmental efforts by all car manufacturers. Sanoh has also developed highly impact-resistant products in response to strict environmental regulations, and sales of plastic products have grown fourfold in the past five years.

Sanoh will continue to offer products with further improved function, including weight reduction, in order to contribute to the preservation of the global environment.

>> Click here for information about Sanoh's Plastic Product

Aug.2007

Sixth Annual Japanese Speech Contest for Overseas Trainees

On August 2, 2007 a Japanese Speech Contest for Overseas Trainees was held at the Sanoh Koga Plant. The contest has been held annually since 2004 and has turned into a large event; this year, 14 trainees from China, Thailand and Indonesia took part before an audience of over 100 spectators.

The trainees who participated in the contest spoke passionately about themselves, their experiences in Japan, their current lifestyles, future prospects, and so on. The speeches were written under the guidance of the instructor of the Japanese language class that the trainees attend at Sanoh twice weekly. The participants’ performances were judged based on both the speeches themselves as well as a question-and-answer session conducted in Japanese.

This year, Baginda Soritua Siregar, a trainee from Indonesia who has been in Japan for six months, received the award for Outstanding Performance based on the positive assessment of the correctness of his pronunciation and his adeptness and giving proper responses to the judge's questions. Another trainee from Indonesia, Munir Misbahul, gave a speech that greatly impressed the audience; in it, he explained that he was working hard with high enthusiasm and motivation in hopes of someday becoming a manager. In a get-together held after the contest, friendship between the participants and their fellow employees was further deepened as the trainees demonstrated Chinese songs and Indonesian dances, and many people gathered around the trainees to ask them questions.

Sanoh Industrial will continue to actively receive trainees from overseas and aim to find similarities and understand differences in language and culture in order to further advance the spirit of globalization.

Jul.2007

Sanoh Provides Educational Support Activities for Students from Overseas

On June 20, 2007, forty foreign students visiting Japan as part of the Young Student Exchange Program (YSEP)http://www.ryu.titech.ac.jp/~ysep/ sponsored by the Tokyo Institute of Technology were invited to the Sanoh Koga Plant in order to attend a Study Session on Manufacturing. The study session was planned based on the students’ desire to “learn the role of a part manufacturer in the development and production of cars,” and centered on tours of the production and product development areas of the facility. In addition to the plant tour, time was made for a presentation of an overview of the company and a question-and-answer session.

In order to accommodate the students representing over 20 different countries, Sanoh employees from the United States, the Ivory Coast and China participated in the event, and all information was presented in English. The students actively posed questions about our processing equipment during the plant tour, and during the question-and-answer period, they asked questions on a wide range of topics, from Sanoh’s quality policy to our future business development and educational training.

Sanoh will continue to strengthen our efforts through industry-university cooperation in the future in order to contribute to educational support activities for overseas students from all universities.

>> To inquire about a plant tour, please click here.

Jul.2007

Construction Begins on New Plant in Mexico to Produce High-Accuracy Brazed Products

SANMEX, an overseas subsidiary of Sanoh located in Aguascalientes in Mexico, has been carrying out the construction of a new plant with an investment of six hundred million yen for the purpose of expanding production in North and South America and strengthening its management infrastructure.

The new plant will manufacture high-performance products such as fuel supply rails for fuel injection rails that are more competitive and have higher accuracy than in the past. In addition, service will be enhanced in order to provide greater customer satisfaction by introducing a new logistics system that will integrate the old and new plants to improve logistics efficiency.

Products produced by the new plant will be supplied primarily to each automotive manufacturer in North America as well as exported to Brazil, with sales expected to reach 5.5 billion yen in 2010, approximately double the results of 2006.

In the future, SANMEX will take on an important role within the Sanoh Group as the supply base for brazed products1 not only to Mexico, but throughout North, Central and South America.

[Overview of the New Plant in Mexico]
-Area: Land = 11,664square meter Facilities = 7,519square meter
-Operations to begin in January 2008
-Investment Amount: Six hundred million yen

1. Brazing, also called hard soldering, is the process of firmly joining together multiple metal parts (base materials) by welding them together using a different metal with a lower melting point than the base materials.

>> Click here to visit the SANMEX page

Jun.2007

Sanoh do Brasil Awarded Toyota Mercosur Achievement Performance Certificate

On May 11, 2007 the Fifth Mercosur Supplier Conference hosted jointly by Toyota do Brasil Ltda (TBD) and Toyota Argentina S.A. (TASA) was held in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil. The event was attended by around 150 companies(over 300 representatives) from both South American countries.

The conference featured an awards ceremony for suppliers that demonstrated excellence in the categories of Quality, Cost and Delivery in fiscal year 2006. Sanoh do Brasil was awarded Achievement Performance Certificates in two categories: Cost and Delivery.

With these recent accolades and the Quality Excellence Performance Award received in fiscal year 2005, Sanoh do Brasil has the distinction of having been the winner of all three categories as a supplier.

May.2007

Sanoh Plastic Clutch Reservoir Tube Adopted in Mazda Compact Car

Sanoh's plastic clutch reservoir tubes have recently been evaluated for their high quality and adopted in Mazda Motor Corporation's Axela (Mazda3) sport compact car.

The clutch reservoir tube is a product used to supply clutch oil between the reservoir tank and the clutch master cylinder.

The specifications of the Sanoh product include high-performance quick connectors assembled on both ends of the plastic tubing (see photograph). It has a smaller design compared to the existing version and contributes to the flexibility of the layout as well as the overall quality.

Our clutch reservoir tubes are slated to be adopted gradually in other Mazda manual transmission vehicles in the future.

Apr.2007

The Globalization of Sanoh

Sanoh first began overseas operations 40 years ago and has since expanded our global presence to 45 production facilities in 19 countries worldwide, includingJapan.

During this time, we have actively promoted our global expansion and, in 1993, we began recruiting students from overseas, which has contributed significantly to the globalization of our workforce. Employees from the United States, China and Malaysia are currently active in several divisions, and newly-recruited employees from the Ivory Coast and China will join us this year, even further enhancing the globalization of our company.

In a recent company-wide conference held on March 9, 2007 with the participation of the top management from our overseas subsidiary companies, communication in languages other than English became multinational to the extent that managers from overseas were speaking Japanese and Japanese employees were speaking in other foreign languages, enabling effective and highly successful exchanges of information and ideas.

Sanoh Industrial is dedicated to continuing the promotion of recruitment activities in a proactive manner without regard for nationality, gender, etc. We also aim to further strengthen our global operations system by enhancing the training of the top management and staff at our overseas subsidiaries.

Mar.2007

A Park with 200 Growing Trees

In June 1987, Sanoh began the development of a tree park on the site of the old company residence adjacent to the Koga Plant. This was performed as one of the events commemorating the 50th anniversary of the founding of our company.

Twenty years later, the 200 trees that were planted in the spirit of coexistence with the community have grown robustly, as can be seen in the photographs.

A wide variety of trees can be found in the park, including: White Oak, Cedar, Black Pine, Acorn Tree, Plum Tree, Azalea, Cherry Tree, Mountain Maple, Dogwood, Kobus Magnolia, Zelkova, Camellia japonica, Camellia sasanqua, Orange Osmanthus, Wisteria, Peach Tree, Satsuki Azalea, Forsythia, Cape Jasmine and Thunberg Spirea.

The park is open to all residents in the community and has become a popular recreation area and playground for local children.

It is our hope that we will continue to grow as a company that gives special consideration for humanity and the environment.

Feb.2007

Interaction with Associates from Oversees

With 45 production facilities in 19 countries worldwide (including Japan), Sanoh actively promotes global business development. In order to promote and enhance our global operations, we regularly invite several employees from each of our overseas subsidiary companies to the Sanoh "mother factory" located in the city of Koga, Ibaraki Prefecture in order to participate in technical and leadership training as Sanoh associates.

At present, a total of 30 trainees from five countries--India, Brazil, China, Thailand and the Philippines--are in Japan and participating in learning activities. As the training program runs for six months and trainees spend this long period of time in Japan, they are able to interact closely with their Sanoh colleagues, not only on professional basis at work, but also on a more intimate level on days off.

- Training Activities -
The trainees visiting from Sanoh do Brasil in Sao Paulo, Brazil eagerly volunteered for the program and came to Japan after passing the selective examination. They are highly motivated to learn from Sanoh Japan with the purpose of acquiring production technology; however, they have not only been participating in the training activities on the production floor, but also working on the design and production of jigs using computer-aided design (CAD) software. Sanoh employees with overseas business trip experience and an understanding of operations in Brazil have been assigned to oversee the instruction of the trainees, and the communication between both groups has been exceptionally positive.

- Life at the Global Training Center -
All rooms at the Sanoh Global Training Center are wired for Internet access. Trainees are able to communicate with their families and friends back home daily using VoIP phone systems and the like to maintain close contact.

- Enjoying Time Off -
On days off during the six-month training period, trainees are taken on tours of Tokyo and other popular destinations. Recently, trainees and Sanoh employees took a day trip to Tokyo Disneyland and a bus tour of Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture. Over the longer holiday breaks in May and August, events such as barbecue parties are held and all employees join in the festivities.

During a recent holiday, one trainee from Thailand who can speak basic daily conversational Japanese traveled to Kyoto alone. Another trainee from the Philippines was invited to a dinner party at the home of a Sanoh employee he met in the Training Division; he also went skiing with the employee's family and was moved and delighted to see snow for the first time in his life.

The Sanoh training program has proven extremely successful. After returning to their home countries, trainees demonstrate considerable growth and steadily begin taking on active roles as managers and leaders at their respective overseas subsidiary companies.

Jan.2007

"Made in Sanoh": A Corporate Culture of Handmade

Here at Sanoh, we have a "Made in Sanoh" tradition of building all necessary items with our own hands, which epitomizes our employees' spirit of challenge and inquisitive nature. This provides the enjoyment of teamwork and also enables the accumulation of know-how within the company through originality and ingenuity.

Examples of achievements resulting from our "Made in Sanoh" philosophy include:
- All processing equipment for the manufacture of Sanoh's in-house products (design, development and production)
- Internal computer system
- Online interactive communication system
- System and materials for E-Learning
- Corporate website
- Company brochure (design and printing)

Sanoh's spirit for the handmade can be seen in everything from our on-site English Garden, where employees keep beautiful flowers blooming from season to season, to our yearly construction of traditional New Year's kadomatsu pine decorations, and so on.

In what has become an established custom, this year we will once again decorate our own kadomatsu for the start of the coming new year.

Dec.2006

Start of New Graduate Recruiting Activities for 2008

Sanoh Industrial is sending a message of "From Japan to the World" to job-seeking students. We have begun our recruiting activities for 2008 and are seeking associates with a willingness to work together with us toward new world markets.

On November 24, 2006 we invited representatives from the career centers of various science and technology universities to visit our Koga Plant and take part in an Industry/Enterprise Workshop.

We explained the current situation and future trends of the automotive industry as well as our corporate positioning within it, and afterwards lead a plant tour of the production site and of the home base of our advanced technological development.

Sanoh has begun actively participating in job fairs for students in various fields, beginning with the Nikkei Career FORUM 08, which was held on November 29.

(Sanoh also actively recruits students from overseas throughout the year due to the necessary for diversity amongst our personnel.)

For further information about our corporate recruiting activities (in Japanese), please visit the following URL: http://www.sanoh.com/flash/japanese/recruit/

Nov.2006

Inauguration of Sanoh America, Inc.

Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd. is pleased to announce the inauguration of Sanoh America, Inc. on November 1, 2006. Formerly known as HiSAN, Inc., the company was consolidated as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sanoh in the United States after the purchase of 100% of its shares in July 2005. Sanoh America had net sales of over 22 billion yen in FY2005, and it is positioned as the core of the Sanoh Group's operations in North and South America.

A ceremony to celebrate the inauguration of the company was held in Findlay, Ohio on October 29, 2006. At the event, the president of Sanoh America delivered a speech in which he made a determined proclamation for a new departure, referring to the start of a new era and a new policy.

Sanoh will hereafter introduce high-performance, labor-saving manufacturing equipment and strengthen marketing and product development capabilities in order to enhance the coordinated functionality of the organization as a strategic base for business expansion in North and South America.

Oct.2006

Trainee from Thailand Subsidiary Passes National Trade Skills Test

Since its establishment in May 2004, the Sanoh Global Training Center has been providing leadership development training to visiting employees from subsidiary companies overseas.

Recently, a trainee visiting Japan from our Able Sanoh Industries (1996) Co., Ltd. (ASICO) subsidiary in Thailand, Puttapong Satanakupanit, achieved his personal goal of passing the Basic Grade 2 level of the National Trade Skills Test. The Basic Grade 2 test was established to evaluate the practice and results of training programs and on-the-job training systems for trainees from overseas, and is implemented to evaluate the outcome of the training program before a trainee can move up to on-the-job training.

After passing the National Trade Skills Test, Mr. Satanakupanit's status will be upgraded from a Trainee to a Technical Intern, and over the next two years he will be eligible to sign an employment contract with Sanoh to work as a company employee. In addition, he will continue technological acquisition through advanced programs and will be expected to play a vital role as a technology and quality manager upon his return to ASICO in Thailand.

Sanoh will continue to utilize on-the-job training systems and other means in order to enhance the training of personnel for the Sanoh Group as a whole.

Sep.2006

Start of Operations at New Production Base in Vietnam

On July 27, 2006 Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd. launched production at a new overseas production base in Vinh Phuc Province in Vietnam, located on the outskirts of Hanoi.

The new production base has adopted a processing production system within the plant of the local Honda subsidiary, Honda Vietnam Company Limited (HVN). Operations have begun with the processing and assembly of chassis tubular products (with a monthly production of 400 units) supplied for the new model Civic, the first four-wheel vehicle manufactured by Honda in Vietnam.

On August 10, 2006 a line-off ceremony was held at HVN, during which Sanoh Vice President, Yoshinori Hayasaka, performed the tape-cutting and tree-planting ceremonies. Sanoh received high appraisal from the President of HVN, Mr. Hiroaki Funami, in his speech at the event.

Vietnam's automotive market stood at 40,000 vehicles in 2005, however it is expected to increase to 90,000 vehicles by 2010. Sanoh will continue to aim for further quality improvement towards the expansion of sales for new models in the future.

Aug.2006

Cultural Exchange at Overseas Subsidiaries

On July 15, 2006 HiSAN, Inc., a Sanoh overseas subsidiary company located in Findlay, Ohio in the United States, hosted a booth introducing Japanese culture in collaboration with 11 neighboring Japanese companies at the Findlay Art Festival, a cultural event held by the city of Findlay.

At the festival, Japanese employees of HiSAN exhibited Japanese calligraphy known as shuji. Using ink brushes, the employees wrote visitors' names in English and Japanese katakana lettering on pictures of popular Japanese cartoon characters and traditional woodblock prints called ukiyo-e. The activity proved to be very well-received by the local residents of Findlay.

Sanoh will continue to utilize these kinds of activities in order to deepen the mutual understanding of cultures and customs with the aim of further fostering relationships of trust with local communities around the world.

Jul.2006

Machi-Zukuri Network Activities

In April 2004, Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd. established the Machi-Zukuri Network, an incorporated non-profit organization (NPO), for the purpose of contributing to the community in accordance with the Law to Promote Specified Non-Profit Activities, which came into effect in December 1998.

The Machi-Zukuri Network operates in the three areas of Community Development, Environmental Protection and Social Education.

One recent example of such activities is the Lavender Festival that was held in the city of Koga on June 18, 2006. Through cooperation with local horticulturists, flowers were presented to townspeople and elderly residents of a local senior care home at the expense of the NPO, deepening relations with the community.

These activities and activity methods have drawn considerable attention, and in November of last year a representative from the NPO was invited to address the Policy Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (PRIMAFF), a national research organization.

For further information about the Machi-Zukuri Network, please visit the following URL : http://www.sanoh.com/flash/english/about_sanoh/as_09.htm

Jun.2006

Sanoh Plastic FIR Adopted in Honda Export Motorcycle

A plastic Fuel Injection Rail (FIR) developed by Sanoh has been newly adopted in Honda Motor Co. Ltd.'s latest model export motorcycle, the CBF1000.

The plastic FIR is lightweight, has high corrosion resistance, a low cost and sufficient strength and heat resistance compared to conventional metal fuel injection rails, thus enabling it to improve vehicle performance.

With high accuracy due to Sanoh's forming technology and its two-piece shape, the versatility of our product has been evaluated and is slated to be gradually adopted in additional motorcycle models released by Honda in the future.

May.2006

Dual Campaigns for Smiles and Litter Clean-Up at P.T. Sanoh Indonesia

At P.T. Sanoh Indonesia, Sanoh's overseas subsidiary located in Bekasi, Indonesia, employees are carrying out internal Smile and Litter Clean-Up campaigns.

The Smile Campaign is an effort for employees to keep greetings and smiles in mind while inside the plant and offices. Greetings are a very important and fundamental tool through which teamwork is built.

The Litter Clean-Up campaign encourages all employees to pick up trash around the plant every Friday morning, and was started at the voluntary suggestion of a local manager.

At twice-weekly meetings, all managers visit the plant to see with their own eyes and discuss what is taking place.

Through these activities, P.T. Sanoh Indonesia aims to unify the awareness of problems and enable the self-discovery of problems for improvement and resolution.

>> Click here for more information about P.T.Sanoh Indonesia

Apr.2006

The 8th Annual Sanoh Global Operations Conference

The 8th Annual Sanoh Global Operations Conference was held on March 24, 2006, and was attended by a total of 51 representatives from 18 of Sanoh's overseas subsidiary companies as well as domestic operating officers and departmental managers.

The conference is held annually with the aim of further maximizing management vitality and strengthening the solidarity between the Sanoh Group and its overseas subsidiaries.With 24 members from overseas subsidiary companies - the highest to date - attending the conference this year, active discussions were held concerning matters such as each subsidiary's operational challenges and business strategies for 2006.

At a ceremony held following the conferences, awards for Best Communication and Best Management were presented to select Sanoh subsidiary companies that demonstrated particularly remarkable achievements within the past year.

-Best Communication Award : HiSAN Inc.
-Best Management Award : Sanoh Industrial de Mexico S.A. de C.V. (SANMEX)

Mar.2006

A New Training Initiative at Sanoh Thailand

At Sanoh Thailand, one of the Sanoh Group's bases for the production of Brazed Steel Tubing(*1), new employees entering the company undergo a four-day training program utilizing easy-to-understand visual aids and carried out in a training room located within the plant.

In addition to important information such as working regulations and safety and quality precautions, the program focuses on Sanoh's unique concepts on which all operations are based, such as the 5S(*2) (Seiri, Seiton, Seisou, Seiketsu, and Shukan) and the 4K(*3) (Kimeta-koto, Kimerareta-koto, Kichinto-mamori, Kaizen-o-okonau).

Furthermore, as it is essential that all employees understand ISO14000 and ISO/TS16949 requirements, such information is translated into the Thai language and used to thoroughly train all participants.

After the training program has been completed, a test is conducted to confirm all employees' comprehension of the subject matter.

These efforts are being carried out as a measure against previously poor employee retention rates as well as to promote quality stabilization and the observance of proper delivery timing.

(*1) In addition to Thailand, overseas Brazed Steel Tubing production is also performed in China and India.
(*2) English translation of 5S: Sorting, Organization, Cleaning, Cleanliness and Habit
(*3) English translation of 4K: Implement Improvements that Comply with the Rules and Regulations

>> Click here for more information about Sanoh Industries Thailand

Feb.2006

Information-Sharing through Afternoon Meetings with Hourly Employees

Every month at Sanoh, executive directors and production division managers hold post-lunch break afternoon meetings targeted to hourly employees. (*1)

The meetings are held at the Koga Plant and are additionally transmitted in real time via telephone to three other domestic facilities as well as to resident employees stationed at four overseas affiliates.

Presentation software with graphics and figures is utilized to distribute information about quality, challenges in production processes, sales forecasts, improvement examples, 5S activities (*2), introductions of overseas facilities, etc., in an easy-to-understand way.

The meetings allow hourly employees to share collective views regarding the importance of product quality and corporate goals, and they also lead to an increase in motivation and employee retention.

(*1) Sanoh presently employs approximately 700 hourly employees.
(*2) At Sanoh, the 5S are defined as Sorting (Seiri), Organization (Seiton), Cleaning (Seisou), Cleanliness (Seiketsu) and Habit (Shukan)

Jan.2006

Trainees from Overseas Subsidiaries Participate in Third Japanese Speech Contest

Sanoh has been holding Japanese speech contests for visiting trainees dispatched from overseas production bases since 2004 in order to improve their Japanese language learning level as well as to provide a motivational boost.

On December 22nd of last year, the third speech contest was held. Six trainees gave speeches, and the event was attended by a total of 18 spectators, with a professional Japanese language instructor and younger employees from each of the trainee’s divisions invited as judges.
　
Each trainee's speech consisted of a self-introduction and themes such as their training in Japan. The judges took into consideration such factors as Japanese pronunciation, speech composition, etc., and awards for Outstanding Performance were given to Mr. Fernando and Mr. Everton from Brazil and Mr. Mahendora from India.

The trainees from Brazil who ranked in at the top came to Japan after studying the Japanese language independently and mastering basic daily conversation skills in their home country once it was decided that they would be dispatched to Japan for training. Combined with the training they have received in their Japanese language course, their communication level in Japan has improved dramatically, enabling smooth communication with Japanese staff members at their training assignments.

Upon the trainees' return to their native countries, we can expect an exponential improvement in communication with their fellow employees from Japan as well as further success at their local subsidiaries.

Speech contests are an ideal opportunity to confirm the overseas trainees' active motivation to learn, and we will continue to hold such events with the involvement of Japanese staff members.

Jan.2006

"Building All Necessary Items": The Making of Kadomatsu to Celebrate the New Year

As a manufacturing company, we at Sanoh value the concept of "Building All Necessary Items."

The annual year-end custom of making kadomatsu, traditional New Year's pine tree decorations, was once again carried out this year amidst cold weather brought by strong northern winds.

Although this annual event has traditionally been overseen by the Koga Plant General Affairs Group, this year interested trainees from oversees and younger employees participated voluntarily and worked together to insert pine branches into the kadomatsu.

This joint activity of making the kadomatsu was a unique opportunity for cross-cultural communication between the participating employees and overseas trainees. In spite of the cold weather, the event was a heartwarming activity and was an achievement of another new success for our "Made in Sanoh" challenge.

The kadomatsu will be on display at the Head Office, the Koga Office and at the front gate of the Koga Business Office through January 6, 2006.

Through manufacturing, Sanoh will continue to further strive to create new added value.

Dec.2005

Trainees from Overseas Subsidiaries Globally Expanding Sanoh's Technology

With the "Localization of Personnel and Products" as a key concept, Sanoh has been regularly providing training to employees from our 23 subsidiary companies worldwide for the purpose of the acquisition of technology at our main Koga Plant.

In order to provide high-quality services to all of our customers around the world, it is important that we develop excellent human resources to enable the implementation of our unique fundamentals of manufacturing, new technology and management at each subsidiary company.

Training is carried out over a period of six months at the Global Training Center, which was established in May of 2004 at our Koga Plant. Throughout the course of the program, trainees learn management techniques such as accounting, production control, quality control, etc., including the acquisition of technology which is one of the fundamentals of manufacturing, as well as the Japanese language.

Since the establishment of the Training Center, 31 employees from overseas have completed the program and have returned to their home countries to play vital roles as managers and leaders at Sanoh's local subsidiaries.

As a global company, we will continue to develop excellent personnel who will forge the future of our overseas subsidiaries and actively expand our technology in order to provide the highest quality of service with identical products of equal quality to our customers on a global scale.

Nov.2005

Construction Launched on Production Control Center

On October 18, a ground-breaking ceremony was held at the Sanoh Koga Plant for the Production Control Center and construction of the new Center was formally launched. The site area is approximately 2,655 square meters with a total floor area of 2,704 square meters, and construction is scheduled for completion by the end of March 2006.

The Production Control Center will manage the logistics of operations from production through shipping. The centralization of production and shipping information will enable total logistical control for the Sanoh Group.

Furthermore, the final processing for the Plastic Products Division, for which further increases in sales are anticipated, will be transferred to the second floor of the Center in order to interlock the production site with the shipping site. In the future, the Production Control Center will comprehensively manage all functions of operations through sales, procurement, production and shipping, further enhancing Sanoh's ability to provide superior service to our customer base.

Oct.2005

New Sanoh Products to be Adopted in New Honda Civic Engine

Three new Sanoh products will be adopted in the engine of the new Civic model announced by the Honda Motor Co., Ltd. on September 22, 2005.

The first product is the EGR Pipe, which is manufactured by Sanoh using stainless steel piping. This product is designed to return exhaust emissions back into the induction system and improve automotive engine performance. It is able to withstand high temperature exhaust emissions and furthermore features superior high corrosion-resistance. Sanoh's EGR Pipes will now be adopted in all 1.8-liter Civic engines worldwide.

The remaining two products are the Filler Neck Tube and the Bent Tube, both newly developed by Sanoh and utilizing plastic materials.
The former connects the filler neck and the fuel tank, and the latter is a tubular part that transports vaporized gasoline in the fuel tank to the canister. Due to the fact that newly developed materials were used in each case, our new products have cleared the PZEV regulations - the strictest exhaust emissions regulations in North America, which existing plastic materials have not been able to meet - and will be adopted in all Civic Hybrid vehicles in North America.

Sales of these products are expected to increase in the future, centering on the North American market.

Sep.2005

"English Learning and Cross-Cultural Communication" Lecture Held Lecture Held

Through the Sanoh Human Resources Development Group, a part of the Global General Affairs Division, our goal is to further enhance a total plan for the expansion of personnel training. A variety of workshops and on-the-job training projects are being held and the subsequent achievements are being reflected in the evaluations of all employees and their primary duties.

As part of the total plan, we arrange for independent speakers to visit Sanoh to give lectures for the purpose of the active introduction of education, and on August 24, 2005 a lecture with the theme of "English Learning and Cross-Cultural Communication" was held in the Tokyo Head Office.

The lecturer, Ms. Yoko Alpert, is a linguistics expert who has taught Japanese language courses at Cornell University, Wharton School of Business and other academic institutions in the United States.

In the lecture, Ms. Alpert offered many pointers on topics such as how to communicate with Americans, based on key concepts such as "Silence is Taboo," resulting in a very significant presentation.

In the course of our advancement in globalization, the improvement of our employees' communication skills in English is an essential task, and therefore we will continue to enhance the content of our English language training.

Aug.2005

Development of Entirely Chrome-Free Surface Treatment for Chassis Tubing

Sanoh Industrial has recently completed development and begun the mass production of tubular chassis products with an entirely chrome-free surface treatment (PA and PVdF coating) in anticipation of the future prohibition of chromium compounds.

This development marks a clear distinction from other companies’ surface treatments containing trivalent chromium.

Our research and development efforts strove early on to meet the European Union’s End of Life Vehicles (ELV) Directive, which bans the use of hexavalent chromium in anticorrosive plating and coating in response to environmental regulations and comes into effect in July of 2007 for all new vehicles put on the market.

Sanoh will continue to make advancements towards enhanced energy efficiency, high precision and high quality in order to respond swiftly to widespread social issues such as global safety and environmental regulations in the automotive industry.

Jul.2005

Beautification Campaign Underway at Koga Plant

Since April 2004, all employees at our Koga Plant have been maintaining flower beds within the plant premises as part of a "Beautification of the Koga Plant" campaign. Seasonal flowers of various types are planted in several areas, and the planters are watered and weeded by employees on a rotational basis.

Last year, a goal was set to keep beautiful flowers in bloom from season to season, and an award was given to the division that had the most excellent communication, which raised awareness among the employees.

Recently, a variety of flowers such as Marguerites and Cosmos have been in full bloom. We are planning to continue promoting the "Beautification of the Koga Plant" campaign through all employees chipping in their knowledge and making sincere efforts.

Jun.2005

Tubing Production Totals Distance to the Moon and Back, Seven Times!

As of the end of March 2005, total tubing production at Sanoh has reached over 5,202,000km since production began in 1963. This distance is equivalent to a trip to the moon and back seven times (760,000km per round trip) or 130 laps around the equator (40,000km per lap).

Our steel and plastic tubing are used primarily in automotive fluid handling parts that are critical for safety and transport brake oil, fuel, etc., much like the role of blood vessels in the human body.

Through our original technology and development capability, Sanoh continuously strives to ensure safety and provide comfort while aspiring for an advanced motorized society.

>> go to Sanoh's Tubing Products

May.2005

107 Employees Participate in Operation to Clean Watarase Drainage Basin

On April 23, an operation to clean the Watarase Drainage Basin organized by the Watarase Drainage Basin Nature Conservation and Utilization Network was carried out between six local municipalities (Koga City, Oyama City, Fujioka Town, Itakura Town, Kitakawabe Town and Nogi Town). A total of 107 employees from Sanoh, which is an ISO 14001 certified company, volunteered to participate in the activity and worked together to protect the natural environment of the basin.

The Watarase Drainage Basin is home to a diversity of animal and plant life, including 667 varieties of plants, and is also a popular location for recreational activities. However, the disposal by imprudent individuals of not only general refuse, but also recent illegal dumping, is noticeably conspicuous, and the natural environment and precious scenery are being destroyed.

Sanoh will continue to proactively carry out environmental conservation activities in order to protect this rich natural environment.

Apr.2005

The 7th Annual Sanoh Global Operations Conference

The 7th Annual Sanoh Global Operations Conference was held on March 15, 2005, and was attended by a total of 40 representatives from 15 of Sanoh’s overseas subsidiary companies, as well as domestic operating officers and departmental managers.

The conference is held annually with the aim of further maximizing management vitality and strengthening the solidarity between the Sanoh Group and its overseas subsidiaries. During the recent conference, active discussions were held concerning matters such as each subsidiary’s operational challenges and business strategies for 2005.

At a ceremony held following the conferences, awards for Best Communication, Best Management and Best Improvement were presented to select Sanoh subsidiary companies that demonstrated particularly remarkable achievements within the past year.

Mar.2005

NikoNiko Service Incorporated Non-Profit Organization Website Relaunched

NikoNiko Service, an incorporated non-profit organization established in April of 2000 with support from Sanoh, has been providing various kinds of services and volunteer activities to the community for the purpose of contributing to the qualitative improvement of the local public welfare.

Five years after its establishment, NikoNiko Service has relaunched their website in order to make their accumulated experience, know-how and ideas from their welfare services widely available to the public in a way that is easy to understand.

NikoNiko Service will aim to continue to compile content and distribute information on their website to be useful for everyone. We welcome you to visit the newly redesigned NikoNiko Service website at: http://www.koganet.ne.jp/niko

>> NikoNiko Service website

Feb.2005

Second Japanese Speech Contest for Overseas Trainees

Recently, Sanoh held a Japanese speech contest for trainees dispatched from overseas subsidiary companies, following up the previous contest held in July of last year (for details about the first speech contest, please see the Topic from August 2004).

Presently, a total of 18 trainees hailing from four countries (China, the Philippines, India and Brazil) are stationed in Japan and are working hard at internships in every department as well as an introductory Japanese language course.

For the Japanese language course, Sanoh invites a full-time Japanese language instructor from the Japan International Training Cooperation Organization (JITCO) and 60 hours of instruction are undertaken in three months.

In the recent speech contest, there was remarkable improvement by the trainees from China in particular, who have attained a level of nearly being able to understand daily conversation in the short period of only two months.

Following the speech contest, managers and persons in charge from the practical training sites engaged in activities with the trainees, such as a game rally and karaoke in their native languages.

Jan.2005

The Making of Kodamatsu, Traditional New Year’s Pine Tree Decorations - A “Made in Sanoh” Challenge -

At Sanoh, all employees carry out their duties based on teamwork and creativity, in line with our management policy of “continuous improvement and the challenge to new technology.” As part of this policy, all employees have established the objective of building all necessary items - not just equipment - with their own hands.

At the end of the year, all members of the General Affairs Group at the Koga Business Office came together to exchange ideas and hand-make traditional Japanese New Year’s pine tree decorations known as a kadomatsu.

Although the growth of pine trees was not very good this year due to a low rainfall during the summer, we were able to choose the most splendid of the crop, which along with our improvement of the building process, resulted in the creation of wonderful kadomatsu again this year.

The kadomatsu will be on display at the Head Office in Koga, the Tokyo Head Office and the front gate of the Koga Business Office through January 6, 2005.

Sanoh will continue to signal the arrival of the New Year to all visitors, employees and neighborhood residents, as well as further our “Made in Sanoh” Challenge.

Dec.2004

Construction Launched on Sanoh Industrial (Wuxi) Co., Ltd. Plant

Following Shanghai Sanoh and Guanzhou Sanoh, Sanoh has launched the construction of our third production base in China, Sanoh Industrial (Wuxi) Co., Ltd. The area of the commercial plant in the primary stage is approximately 40,000 square meters with 7,742 square meters of total floor area, and construction is scheduled for completion by the end of April 2005.

Sanoh Industrial (Wuxi) Co., Ltd. is a 100% subsidiary owned by Sanoh and will be our twenty-fourth overseas production base. With operations scheduled to begin in May 2005 and mass production slated for January 2006, the facility will produce tubing for brake line application (brazed steel tubing). Our target is to achieve a production volume of 2,000,000m per month (equivalent to an annual automobile production of 2,000,000 vehicles) by 2007.

In the future expansion of Sanoh’s Chinese operations, we will position the new Wuxi plant as the key production base in China to supply brazed steel tubing throughout the country, beginning with the existing processing facilities in Shanghai and Guangzhou. This will enable us to establish an integrated manufacturing system in China, from localized tubing manufacturing through surface treatment, processing and sales. In the second stage, we plan to expand the business to include plastic products, brazed products for engine parts,, and so on.

In addition, we will introduce leading-edge environmentally friendly production equipment; substitute the use of hexavalent chromium, which is designated as environmentally hazardous material, in surface treatment; etc., in order to carry out production in China with environmental protection as the top priority, as it is in Japan.

Nov.2004

The Dedication of the Eddie S. Jose Study Room

Last month, the training room located inside the Sanoh Global Training Center, which opened in May of this year, was dedicated as the Eddie S. Jose Study Room.

As the president of our overseas subsidiary company Sanoh Fulton Philippines, Inc. (SFPI), Mr. Jose has been an active member of the Sanoh Group and has been devloted to our common challenge of global personnel training by dispatching a total of roughly 40 trainees to Japan over the past 10 years. Eleven trainees from SFPI have come to Japan this year.

The dedication of the training room as the Eddie S. Jose Study Room was done in honor of Mr. Jose’s commitment to personnel training. At the present time, 18 trainees from several of our overseas subsidiaries are stationed in Japan and are working hard at internships in the technology and manufacturing departments as well as in an introductory Japanese language course. It is our intention to utilize this room as a place where trainees from abroad can interact with one another and further cultivate themselves.

In addition, the Eddie S. Jose Study Room will be open as a lounge on non-business days as a place for global communication, such as occasional cultural exchange activities, birthday parties and the like.

Oct.2004

Globally Expanding “All Equipment is Made In Sanoh” to our Second EC Base, Shanghai Sanoh

Sanoh carries out the design, development and manufacture of all processing and production equipment for our in-house products, and therefore we use the slogan “All Equipment is Made In Sanoh.”

At the Engineering Center, where the activities mentioned above are performed, we are actively promoting the global achievement of the establishment of a framework for the optimal logistics and supply of manufacturing equipment and facilities for the transfer of technology developed domestically to our overseas subsidiaries.

Shanghai Sanoh (official name: Shanghai Sanoh Mechanical Co., Ltd.) was founded in Shanghai, China in 1999 and has been designated as the “Second EC Base,” providing manufacturing equipment throughout China as well as the rest of Asia.

Along with the expansion of automotive market in China, in recent years the transfer of technology to Shanghai Sanoh has been progressing at a rapid pace, and at last, February 2004 saw the completion of an LR Bender (high-precision bending equipment), with the materials, parts and manufacture all acquired and performed locally in China. This bender was the first piece of equipment to be “100% Made In Shanghai Sanoh,” and was delivered to our Koga Plant in Japan by reverse import. The function and quality are comparable to the same equipment made in Japan, which confirms Shanghai Sanoh’s outstanding technical capabilities.

We will continue to further pursue the principles of new technology, high quality and low price, and equipment manufactured by Shanghai Sanoh is scheduled for global distribution in the near future.

Sep.2004

Second Mental Health Training Session Held

Recently, Sanoh held a second Mental Health Training Session for management-level employees.

Date held: Friday, August 27, 2004
Instructor: Mr. Akio Ohtsuki, Head Counselor, Ibaraki Counseling Center, Inc.
Participants: 40 managerial employees
Contents:
1) Attitude for helping others ~　The importance of listening　~
- What kind of workplace allows employees to work with ease?
- How should we help those who are in distress?
- What should we do to be a good listener?

2) Dealing with depression
- Characteristics of depression
- What to do when one becomes depressed
- Considerations for when one returns to work

In order to raise awareness of mental health issues, Sanoh will hold a total of three training sessions this year, with all 120 managerial employees in Japan scheduled to attend.

Aug.2004

Trainees from Overseas Subsidiaries Participate in Japanese Speech Contest

Each year, managers and leaders from Sanoh’s overseas subsidiary companies are invited to Sanoh Japan to take part in specialized training activities in fields such as manufacturing and engineering. Presently, eleven trainees from four countries are in Japan undergoing the training program day after day at the Sanoh Global Training Center, which opened in May of this year.

As part of the training curriculum, the trainees participate in a Japanese language course designed to provide them with a basic introduction to the language and taught by a professional instructor. On July 13, a Japanese speech contest was held in order to assess the students’ classroom progress thus far as well as provide them with a motivational boost. The contest was attended by a total of 20 Sanoh spectators, including a number of executive company officers.

The speeches, delivered entirely in Japanese, were composed of a simple self-introduction, as each trainee spoke briefly about their family back home, their favorite Japanese foods and their general gratitude for the training opportunity given to them in Japan. While all of the participants practiced hard in the previous months and performed very well in delivering their speeches, prizes could only be awarded for the top four speeches. One trainee was awarded the top prize for Outstanding Speech and three Best Effort awards were also given out.

Following the contest a small reception was held, during which the trainees from each country and Sanoh staff members enjoyed refreshments and pleasant conversation in a mix of English, Japanese and the trainees’ native languages. For everyone in attendance, it was an excellent experience in cultural exchange, showcasing the strength of a global company that continuously strives to overcome language barriers.

It is our hope that the advancement of each trainees’ Japanese language ability will allow their understanding of the current training material to expand, as well as enable an exponential improvement in communication with fellow Japanese staff at the overseas subsidiaries upon their return to their native countries.

Jul.2004

Two Consecutive Victories for Electric Vehicles Equipped with Sanoh Ni-MH Batteries

As introduced in the January Topics of this year, “EV Dreams” is an Electric Vehicle (EV) racing team utilizing Sanoh’s newly developed Ni-MH batteries in its vehicles
So far in 2004, the team has participated in two races and has achieved
two consecutive victories.

1. First and Second Place in the “Challenge EV Midget II” Competition
On April 17, EV Dreams’ BEAT EV (based on the Honda BEAT) and Coupe EV (based on the Suzuki Fronte Coupe) both participated in the “Challenge EV Midget II” competition, a five-lap time trial sprint race on a 1km course held at the Tsukuba Circuit 1000. Both cars monopolized the podium as BEAT EV took first place and Coupe EV came in second out of a total of 13 competitors.

2. Combined Power of Speed and Energy Efficiency Proved a Powerful Combination at the “Seaside Gymkhana” Competition
On June 13, BEAT EV participated in the “Seaside Gymkhana” competition in Oiso, where contestants raced a 900m course, battling the clock while attempting to use as little electric power as possible. BEAT EV won first prize out of the 13 competitors for its limited fuel usage and high speed run, taking advantage of its light weight.

Sanoh’s EV Special Batteries, which pursue high output and high capacity while maintaining a light weight, have demonstrated their balance of both conservation and expenditure of vehicle energy savings during races.

We will continue to participate in other EV races as well as gas-powered car races in a push for further development breakthroughs in these areas.

Jun.2004

Establishment of the Sanoh Global Training Center

Since 1984, Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd. has been operating a training program in which employees from our overseas subsidiary companies are invited to Japan to receive training in manufacturing technology and management methods that have significantly improved domestic operations in order to enhance their global competitive power.

More than 100 employees have participated in this training program since its initiation, and some have moved on to become high-level managers and leaders in their respective subsidiary companies.

As a result of this success, on May 1, 2004 Sanoh established a new “Global Training Center” in order to expand the training capabilities at our Koga plant.

The facility is comprised of 18 rooms (housing 36 interns at full capacity). Additionally, there are several conference rooms and lounges located on the ground floor of the center, where trainees can participate in active discussions to further their understanding of the program.

In addition to the two trainees from STI Sanoh India currently participating in the program, approximately 30 engineers and leaders from our subsidiary companies in China, Indonesia, Thailand, India, Brazil and the Philippines are scheduled to participate later in 2004. (The Sanoh Group currently has 23 subsidiary companies in 16 countries worldwide.)

May.2004

Internship Program from Findlay University

HiSAN Inc., one of Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd.'s US affiliate companies, established in June 1986 and located in Findlay, Ohio, has been receiving interns from the University of Findlay since October 1993 as part of a community involvement program.

This business internship program provides its interns with hands-on experience at Sanoh in Japan. It is intended to allow the interns the opportunity to assimilate into Japanese culture and life, while living with fellow Japanese employees in the company dormitory. This serves to practically supplement the introductory language and culture courses studied at the University of Findlay.

Over the past ten years, five students have experienced this internship. Currently, Mr. Zachary Pina, a journalism major and Japanese language minor, is performing his internship in the Global General Affairs Division at the Sanoh head office.

His primary duties this year have been focused on the promotion of an English conversation program for Sanoh employees, through which English communication between himself and his fellow employees has developed.

Meanwhile, another young Sanoh employee, Mr. Munetoshi Sasaki, is currently attending MBA courses at the University of Findlay.

May.2004

Sanoh Europe (France) EURL Receives "Achievement Award" from TMEM

On March 25, 2004, the TMEM (Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing Europe) 2004 Annual Business Meeting was held in Brussels, Belgium. In the meeting, Sanoh Europe (France) EURL was awarded the "Achievement Award" in the 2003 Supply Management category.

This prestigious award is granted once a year to suppliers who contributed to Toyota's highest standards of excellence among all suppliers to Toyota's four manufacturing companies located in Europe (France, UK, Turkey, and Poland).

After receiving a supplier Recognition Certificate from Toyota last year, Sanoh Europe's employees committed diligent efforts and accomplished further progress this year by receiving the Achievement Award.

Apr.2004

The 6th Annual Sanoh Global Operations Conference

The 6th Annual Sanoh Global Operations Conference was held on March 5, 2004, bringing together thirty-nine representatives from twelve of Sanoh's overseas affiliate companies, as well as domestic operating officers and departmental managers.

The conference is held annually with the aim of maximizing management vitality and further strengthening the solidarity of the Sanoh Group. Active discussions were held during the conference concerning matters such as each affiliate company's business challenges and business strategies for 2004.

At a ceremony held following the conference, various awards, including three for Outstanding Communication, were presented to Sanoh's affiliate companies that demonstrated remarkable achievement within the past year.

Mar.2004

Sanoh's Plastic Fuel Tube Assembly Adopted for Motorcycle Use for the First Time

Sanoh's plastic fuel tube assembly has been adopted by Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. for their latest motorcycle model for export, the Ninja ZX-10R. This is the first time that a Sanoh product has been adopted for use in motorcycles.

Consisting of a plastic tube with quick connectors affixed to both tube ends, this product is utilized in sending fuel from the fuel tank to the throttle body. (Please refer to the picture)

The quick connectors include a mechanism where a connection can only be made when the pipe to be connected is inserted completely. In addition, the ease of maintenance after sales has also been considered, as this mechanism remains reliable throughout repeated attachment and removal. Therefore, problems due to imperfect connections can be easily avoided.

To ensure safety, the plastic tube was designed with a thermoplastic elastomer coat to act as a protector in preventing scratches from contact. Designed to improve safety, this protector is comprised of a special flame-retardant rubber compound, which is vastly different from conventional protectors that use rubber hoses.

Kawasaki Heavy Industries also plans to adopt this assembly in future motorcycle releases.

>> Click here to visit the Plastic Tubular Products page

Feb.2004

Tube Endforming Technology

Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd. produces tubing that is processed into critical automotive safety parts designed for the three major safety functions of automobiles: turning, stopping and reducing the risk of fire.

Tubing processed into automotive parts is utilized for the supply of gasoline, oil, etc. throughout the vehicle, and the end portions of the tubes are specially formed according the shapes of the counterparts to which they will be joined. In order to ensure proper safety, tube ends must be formed into a wide variety of shapes in accordance with the designated purpose of the tube. Just as with the production of tubing, endforming is a very important technology and requires ensuring that the end portions of the tube are of the necessary strength and reliability.

Sanoh possesses a wide variety of tube enforming technologies to meet any purpose, and processing is performed by equipment created within Sanoh's own Engineering Center.

< Examples of Endforming Types >

■ Bulge Shape
For connections to rubber tubes, etc.

■ Flare Shape
For use with high-pressure tubes such as brake lines

■ Quick Spool Shape
For one-touch connections using Sanoh's quick connectors

■ ISO Flare
For use with high-pressure tubes such as brake lines

■ PCO (Press Fit Connection with O-Ring)
For connections to plastic tubes

■ Seal Lock
For use with high-pressure tubes for compressed natural gas

■ Other
For use with parts possessing unique specifications

The endforming of tube at Sanoh is performed efficiently with the suitable processing method and equipment chosen according to the intended end portion shapes. Processing methods include direct processing with pneumatic or hydraulic equipment, processing using a press mechanism, processing using pressing rollers, etc.

Jan.2004

An Electric Vehicle Equipped with Sanoh's Special Batteries to Participate in Race

"EV Dreams" is an Electric Vehicle (EV) racing team that is operated independently by twenty volunteer Sanoh employees. They have converted a commercially available car into an electric vehicle by hand, and have participated in electric vehicle endurance and sprint races held at racing circuits. They have stood on victory stands ten times out of the thirteen races that they have participated in. Sanoh has supported such activities by providing batteries and other support.

Recently, Sanoh has completed the development of the "Sanoh EV Special Battery,"
which was based on Sanoh's Ni-MH batteries and specially designed for electric vehicles.
Utilizing the know-how obtained through the experiences in EV races, the new battery was developed in pursuit of increased output, a higher capacity and a lighter weight.

◆Sanoh EV Special Battery-Cell
Diameter: φ25.5 mm
Height: 60.0 mm
Weight: 130 g
Rated Voltage: 1.2 V
Nominal Capacity: 6.2 Ah
Specific Energy: 58 Wh/kg
Specific Power: 870 W/kg
Maximum Discharge Amperes: 130 A

◆Sanoh EV Special Battery-Module
Dimensions: 307 (W)×262 (L)×122 (H)
Weight: 12.0 kg
Rated Voltage: 24.0 V
Nominal Capacity: 24.8 Ah
Specific Energy: 50 Wh/kg
Specific Power: 743 W/kg
Maximum Discharge Amperes: 520 A

On January 11, 2004 a modified Honda Beat EV equipped with the new batteries will enter the K&K Clubman's Meeting endurance race, which will be held for gasoline-powered cars at the Tsukuba Circuit in Ibaraki Prefecture.

Nov.2003

Sanoh's Ni-MH Batteries Exhibited at 2003 Japan International Cycle Show

The 2003 Japan International Cycle Show was held at the Tokyo International Exhibition Center ("Tokyo Big Sight") from October 31 through November 2, 2003.

Sunstar Engineering Inc., whose top-selling "Intelligent Bike" electric motor-assisted bicycle utilizes Sanoh's Ni-MH Batteries, hosted a booth at the exhibition and attracted a great number of visitors. In addition to the Intelligent Bike, the "Intelligent Bike Kit," an electric motor assist attachment unit for bicycles also drew significant interest from attendees.

Sanoh's Ni-MH Batteries and battery charger were also exhibited at Sunstar Engineering's booth, where they were successfully presented to attendees as high-performance batteries that contribute to the superior motor-assisted capability of the Intelligent Bike.

Sanoh will continue to provide high performance Ni-MH Batteries that satisfy the requirements of our customers, including Sunstar Engineering Inc.

>> Click here to visit the Ni-MH Battery page

Nov.2003

Sanoh's Volunteer Activities

More than three years have passed since Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd. established two NPO corporations - Niko-Niko Service and Machi-Tsukuri Network - in April of 2000.

In addition to their primary activities, these two NPO corporations engage in other volunteer activities, including athletic festivals at nursing homes and care facilities, and the inspection and repair of wheelchairs. An increasing number of current and former Sanoh employees have been participating in such activities.

Twenty such events have been held since 2001, and four more are scheduled for this year.

Our NPOs will continue to perform such activities in order to further contribute to the community.

>> Click here to visit the NPO Activities page

Oct.2003

Koga Park Awarded UNESCO Melina Mercouri International Prize

Koga Park, located near Sanoh's headquarters and Koga Plant, has recently been awarded the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Melina Mercouri International Prize for the outstanding safeguarding and management of cultural landscapes.

The prize was established in 1999 in memory of Ms. Melina Mercouri, the actress and former Greek Minister of Culture, and is awarded every two years. This is the first time that a Japanese site has been awarded the prize.

Koga City initiated the 25-hectare park development project in 1973, and undertook to redesign the overall landscaping, restore neighboring historic buildings, and revert a large pond that had been turned into paddy fields. Sanoh Industrial has supported the maintenance of the park through such activities as tree-planting and donations.

Sanoh continues to promote community service activities, including "Community Building Activities" promoted by our NPO.

>> Go to the UNESCO page

Sep.2003

Sanoh Commences Supply of Ni-MH Batteries for Use in New Electric Motor-Assisted Bicycle

Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd. has recently begun the supply of Ni-MH battery packs and chargers to be used as the power source for the foldable electric motor-assisted bicycle, the Intelligent Bike, as well as the electric motor assist attachment unit for bicycles, the Intelligent Bike Kit, manufactured by Sunstar Engineering Inc.

The Intelligent Bike was designed for the convenience of collapsibility to be compact as well as lightweight, and at the same time, to ensure an increased motor-assisted capability. Therefore, the battery to power such a design needed to be small, possess a high capacity, and demonstrate high performance output.

Sanoh refined the existing Ni-MH battery technology and improved its volume efficiency by minimizing the conventional C size battery by 10mm in height. Achieving both a higher capacity (20% improvement in energy density compared to Sanoh's conventional batteries) and higher performance (30% improvement in output power density compared to Sanoh's conventional batteries), Sanoh succeeded in the development of a Small-C size battery. The improved Ni-MH battery was able to meet the required performance levels, and the positive performance evaluation results led to the adoption of Sanoh's Ni-MH batteries by Sunstar Engineering.

*Sunstar Engineering Inc. boasts the largest market share in the world for the supply of sprockets and brake disks for motorcycles.

Sanoh Ni-MH Battery Specifications:
- Size: Small-C
- Capacity: 3.4 Ah
- Voltage: 24.0 V (using 20 cells)
- Charger: Exclusive charger

>> Go to the Ni-MH Battery page

Aug.2003

New Global Operations Group Begins Operations in Sanoh's Tokyo Office

On June 1, 2003 Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd. established a new Global Operations Group, and operations have begun in Sanoh's Tokyo Office, a new base in the Shibuya ward in Tokyo.

The Global Operations Group will work to develop a conceptualization of Sanoh's future, and swiftly enact measures to strengthen Sanoh's capabilities for sales, development, engineering and management on a global scale.

Sanoh will vigorously expand external relations and effectively utilize information and knowledge obtained through such activities within internal departments.

The Tokyo Office is also utilized for other purposes, such as regular meetings of the Corporate Planning Department.

Jul.2003

Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd. spearheads operations at Nissan's Kyushu Plant Supplier Park

Sanoh was the forerunner to commence production and delivery at the Supplier Park located in Nissan Motor's Kyushu Plant.

Sanoh has leased a block of Nissan's former engine plant approximately 300 square meter in size. Starting with the assembly of cluster tubes for brake and fuel lines for the new Teana model, in June Sanoh also began the production of cluster tubes for brake and fuel lines for the new Presage model, and production is in full-swing, enabling the supply for 9,000 cars per month.

On April 16, 2003, a tape-cutting opening ceremony was held, with Mr. Imazu, Senior Vice President, and Mr. Nogawa, Regional Vice President and General Manager of the Kyushu Plant, both from Nissan, in attendance. On that occasion, Sanoh received the statement that the realization of on-site assembly of cluster tubes is highly beneficial and significant, considering the transportation inefficiency of the product, and Sanoh's cooperation and the establishment of a foundation towards Nissan's just-in-time system was appreciated.

Jun.2003

Sanoh Ni-MH Batteries Utilized in Koga City Battery-Assisted Bicycles

Since 2000, Koga City, Ibaraki Prefecture, the home of Sanoh's headquarters and Koga Plant, has been running a social experiment to investigate the benefits of battery-assisted bicycles. Implemented by the Ministry of the Environment, the study was designed to evaluate measures for the prevention of global warming.

Approximately 200 battery-assisted bicycles have been lent to volunteer residents of Koga City for the fixed period of the study. When new volunteers were recruited this year, it was announced that Sanoh's Ni-MH batteries would be introduced for utilization in the study, rather than the conventional Ni-Cd batteries. All of the battery-assisted bicycles that were lent to new volunteers beginning in May 2003 are equipped with Sanoh's batteries.

Features of Sanoh's Ni-MH Batteries:

・Compact, light-weight, and high-capacity
　In response to users' strong demands for lighter-weight batteries, the weight of Ni-MH batteries is lighter than conventional batteries by about twenty-three percent, while holding almost the same capacity (5.0Ah).
　- Weight of conventional battery pack: 3.4kg
　- Weight of Sanoh's Ni-MH battery pack: 2.6kg

・Consideration for environmental issues
　Conventional Ni-Cd batteries contain cadmium, which is an environmentally regulated substance. Sanoh's Ni-MH Batteries, however, are free from any regulated substance, and are thus earth-friendly batteries.

>> Go to Ni-MH Battery page

May.2003

Sanoh's Ni-MH Batteries Newly Utilized in Motorizing Units for Wheelchairs

Sanoh's Ni-MH Batteries have been adopted for use in such products as the lightweight humanoid robot ASIMO (produced by Honda), electric bicycles, motor-assisted bicycles, and portable battery-assisted fishing reels, and have subsequently acquired a favorable reputation. Recently, they have been adopted for an additional use in motorizing units for wheelchairs.

The Rakustar, manufactured by Ishikarizouki Co., Ltd., based in Hokkaido, is a unit that enables the conversion of an ordinary wheelchair to achieve mobility by electric power. The motorizing unit was designed to be easily attachable and detachable from a sitting position in the wheelchair. Considering the need for an ease of portability, a battery pack was needed to conform to the light weight and compact size of the unit.

Taking into account the diverse temperature range in Japan, ensuring extended mileage per charge and maintaining high output performance - even at low temperatures - were additional challenges that were faced in the development of a battery for this purpose. Sanoh's Ni-MH Batteries successfully met all such requirements, and have the capability to contribute to the product performance of the Rakustar.

Sanoh Ni-MH Battery Specifications:
-Capacity: 7.0 Ah
-Voltage: 24.0 V (using 20 cells)
-Charger: Exclusive charger

>> Go to the Ni-MH Battery page

Apr.2003

The Sanoh Global Operations Conference

The 5th Annual Sanoh Global Operations Conference was held on February 20, 2002.

With the participation of forty-four people, including representatives from our twelve overseas affiliate companies such as HiSAN and Shanghai Sanoh, and Sanoh's directors and operating officers, active discussions were held for maximizing management vitality and further solidarity of our group.

Each representative from our overseas affiliate companies, including Mr. John Pfeifer, Executive Vice President of HiSAN Inc. in North America, the largest company among the overseas affiliate companies, presented the business performance in 2002 and future business strategies.

At a party held after the meeting, Awards for Management Effort and Communication Effort were presented to four representatives who demonstrated remarkable achievement within the past year.

Mar.2003

New Approach Adds Color to Sanoh's New Plastic Tubing Plant

Sanoh has been working on factory reforms since 2000, such as energy-saving measures for preventing global warming, and improvement of working environment focusing on better productivity, based on a long-term perspective.

This time, we have adopted daring colors for interior parts of our second plastic tubing plant, as a trial to stimulate workers' motivation and raise their spirits.

Consulting an expert on color effects, who specialized in art and architecture at a university, we used pale green as a base color, and accented it with dark blue, which is credited with promoting wits, and orange and yellow with animating workers. Also, in connection with the company name 'Sanoh', which includes a Chinese character whose meaning is cherry, pink, as a color similar to that of cherry blossom, was chosen as the color of equipment on which dies are placed, for adding an interesting flavor.

Conventionally, factories have been colored with innocuous colors such as gray or beige, but the coloration with bright colors of this time is favorably accepted. We will continue to implement reforms in various areas in the future.

Feb.2003

Sanoh received a new order for the Ni-MH Battery used in electric bicycles

Sanoh received an order from the US company, EV Global Motors Inc., for the Ni-MH Battery pack and charger used for folding electric bicycles, and has completed the delivery of the first lot of 2000 sets.

The good performance of Sanoh's Ni-MH Battery is highly acclaimed by electric bicycle manufacturers not only in Japan, but also overseas. We will aggressively continue to promote them for use as the electric bicycle's power source in Taiwan, China, Europe, and the United States.

Specifications of the battery pack
-Battery: Ni-MH Battery (Long-C Cell)
-Nominal capacity: 7Ah
-Nominal voltage: 36V
-Weight: About 3.9kg

Jan.2003

Sanoh's tube bending technology

One of the basic technologies Sanoh boasts is the bending of automotive tubing, including pipes, made of materials such as iron, stainless, aluminum, and nylon.

This month, we will show you a small movie of the brake tube bending process.
(You can choose either broad band or narrow band by clicking the sign ">> To choose the tube bending movie".)

Sanoh develops and produces the process equipment in-house. Thus, we are able to utilize practical feedback from the production department in order to improve not only our bending technology, but all our technologies as well.

We will continue to develop and promote new technologies, including products, method, and equipment, to be introduced by all Sanoh group companies home and abroad.

>> To choose the tube bending movie

Dec.2002

Development and Release of E-learning System

SSS Inc., a subsidiary of Sanoh located in the Shibuya ward in Tokyo has developed and begun the sale of an e-learning system entitled "Terra."

E-learning is a new style of learning that incorporates the use of information technology, such as personal computers and the Internet. One merit of e-learning is that it enables users to learn at their own pace by allowing the opportunity to study material free from time or space restrictions. Utilizing the e-learning system to prepare and review lessons can enable cases of education en masse, such as large classes and seminars, to become more effective than ever before.

The "Terra" e-learning system provides following benefits:

- Easy design of study materials and distribution to students,just like operating a word processor.
- It is versatile for the instruction of several languages, including European languages, Chinese, and Korean.
- The cost for system construction is reasonable.
- The users' study progress can be checked in real time.

The Tokyo Institute of Technology has adopted the "Terra" systemfor French language instruction.

* "Terra" is a Japanese language software program sold exclusively in Japan.

>> Please click here for additional information

Nov.2002

Guangzhou Sanoh featured on an NHK TV program

Guangzhou Sanoh Seikan Co., Ltd., one of Sanoh's overseas affiliate companies, was recently featured on 'NHK Special,' a television program aired on October 13, 2002 on NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation).

The program highlighted the current state of the automobile industry in China, which is growing rapidly and absorbing technologies from several foreign countries, including Japan.
The segment showed a Quality Assurance representative from Guangzhou Honda, one of our customers, on a visit to the Guangzhou Sanoh plant.

The reason why Guangzhou Sanoh was chosen from among the many Japanese companies operating in China to be featured on the program is because it locally manufactures such critical safety parts as brake and fuel tubes.

Guangzhou Sanoh will continue to expand its operations to reflect the growth of the automobile industry in China.

>> Go to the Guangzhou Sanoh page

Oct.2002

Shanghai Sanoh to begin mass production of plastic tubular products

Shanghai Sanoh Mechanical Manufacture Co., Ltd., one of Sanoh's business bases in China, has recently relocated to a new site, and successfully completed an expansion of the facility. In addition to the established production of processing equipment, Shanghai Sanoh has begun supplying plastic tubular products to automobile manufacturers in the Shanghai region.

Sanoh initially branched out its business into China in 1999, and now has two affiliate companies in operation, one in Guangzhou and one in Shanghai.

Shanghai Sanoh serves as Sanoh's engineering base in China, and manufactures various processing equipment for tube production, which is used by Sanoh and local automobile manufacturers. The recent expansion has enabled Sanoh to strengthen the site's process equipment production based on user feedback, and in addition, establish a second mass production plant in China. Initially, the plant will perform such operations as bending, assembly, and final inspection, using parts, including plastic tubular products, provided by Sanoh Japan.

In the future, Sanoh plans to begin local production of plastic tubing and components, in hopes of developing an important overseas base for the production of plastic products.

Sep.2002

Contributing to the local community through IT education

Sanoh Communications Corp, a subsidiary of Sanoh, located in Koga, Ibaraki, continues to contribute to the local community through information technology education.

For example, basic computer courses for job seekers, commissioned by the Ibaraki Branch of the Employment and Human Resources Development Organization of Japan, drew a total of 70 participants for the four 3-month courses held in 2001. There were over 300 participants enrolled in all of the various courses offered in 2001, including seminars arranged independently.

This year, as well, Sanoh Communications offered personal computing courses for job seekers and local corporation associations, among others. In addition, a basic Internet course held on Saturdays for grade school and junior high school students was arranged in response to the newly introduced five-day school week system.

Sanoh Communications continues to promote ties with the Koga region local community by focusing on IT-related education.

Aug.2002

Completion of a 'Robot Cart' Automated Guided Vehicle

In a technical collaboration between the Engineering Center and the Power System Division, Sanoh has completed the creation of a 'Robot Cart' automated guided vehicle. This product has the three following main features:

1. Powerful Mobility
The Robot Cart utilizes a Sanoh Ni-MH battery*, which has twice the power of a conventional lead battery. Therefore, although its weight and volume are less than half that of a traditional lead battery, Sanoh's Ni-MH battery has the same mobility.

2.　Excellent Usability
Because the battery compartment could be reduced in size, Sanoh was able to ensure a large, flat carrying capacity. In addition, due to the compact design of the Robot Cart, it can freely maneuver in confined spaces.

3.　Simple Battery Charging
In hopes of being used in 24-hour operations on the production line, the Robot Cart will be furnished with a self-charging system, which will allow uninterrupted operation.

The Robot Cart will initially be used as a carrier in Sanoh's in-house production lines, and will be improved for better practicality. There are subsequent plans for the Robot
Cart to be sold to customers in the future.

* Ni-MH batteries have already been adopted for use in electric bicycles and robots, where their credibility is highly acclaimed.

>> Go to Ni-MH Battery page

Jul.2002

Sanoh Associate Performs Lifesaving Rescue

On June 9, 2002, a Sanoh associate came to the rescue of two men who nearly drowned in the lower reaches of the Tone River, located in Koga City, Ibaraki Prefecture.
One of the men had lost consciousness, however the associate was able to save his life by administering proper artificial respiration, which was taught at a lifesaving training session given by our company.
On June 17, the Sanoh associate was awarded public recognition by the chief of police for saving the lives of the two men, and the next morning he was featured in an article in the newspaper.
Our company president praised and commended the associate's brave act.
Sanoh assembles employees from not only the production divisions, but from all sections, to attend lifesaving training sessions hosted by an instructor dispatched from the local fire department.
As a manufacturer of automotive components designed to protect peoples' lives, Sanoh firmly emphasizes the importance of safety.

Jun.2002

In-house production of plastic products begin with the goal of 24 hour operation.

Sanoh is experiencing continued growth with our plastic tube due to the ability to significantly reduce the weight of the automobile, more stringent environmental regulations, etc.
Sanoh started the in-house production of quick connectors to provide our customers with a high quality product that compliments the in-house production of Sanoh's plastic tube.
Accordingly, Sanoh has introduced the most advance electromotive injection molding machines into our production systems.
Material loading, equipment controls and other systems are continually being managed and monitored automatically with the goal of performing on-going 24 hour production, including an unmanned night operation. Defective parts that do not meet our quality standard range can be automatically removed, with data being managed by computer.
We continually strive to provide the highest level of quality, stable supply, competitive pricing and a product that satisfies the diverse needs of our customers.

May.2002

Operation to Clean the Watarase Drainage Basin

On April 13, Sanoh collaborated as an ISO 14001 certified acquisition company to clean the Watarase drainage basin.
Seventy-one Sanoh employees volunteered to participate in the event to work to promote environmental preservation, as the ecosystem and scenery of the Watarase drainage basin are being threatened by illegal waste disposal.
The Watarase drainage basin is located roughly 2 km from Sanoh's Koga plant. It is the largest drainage basin in Japan, with an area of approximately 33 square km - about 700 times the size of the Tokyo Dome stadium.
The water and greenery make the landscape a paradise for wild birds, and in the event of a flood, the basin plays the important function of protecting areas downstream from flooding.
Sanoh is strongly devoted to the preservation of the global environment.

Apr.2002

Tube production totals the distance to the moon and back, 6 times!

As of the end of March 2002, total tube production has reached over 4,700,000km since production began in 1963. This distance is equivalent to traveling to the moon and back 6 times or 177
laps around the equator.
Our steel and plastic tubing is used for both automotive parts and electronic products, and adheres to strict quality and safety standards. We continually strive to provide the highest quality, stable supply, low cost, and to create a product that satisfies the diverse needs of our customers.

Mar.2002

The Sanoh Global Operations Conference

The 4th Annual Sanoh Global Operations Conference was held on February 22 2002, gathering Sanoh representatives from 12 of our overseas affiliate companies.
Sanoh holds this conference every year with the aim of enhancing overall cohesiveness and strengthening communication within our global operations.
At this year's conference, with the directors and all department heads in attendance, an active discussion was held concerning issues facing our overseas affiliates and future business strategies.
During the conference, an Award for Management Effort was presented to two representatives (P.T.Sanoh Indonesia, Able Sanoh Industries Co., Ltd) who demonstrated remarkable achievement within the past year.

Feb.2002

Sanoh's FIR contributes to make the inside of an automobile more pleasant and comfortable.

Sanoh's FIR (Fuel Injection Rail) is a product designed to uniformly supply fuel to the injector.
A key feature of this product is that it reduces the pulsation generated by the injector. By reducing this pulsation, our FIR also greatly decreases the amount of unpleasant noise that can travel to the cabin of the car from the engine room, a vast improvement over earlier products. We expect there to be a great demand for our FIR from potential customers, both domestically and overseas.
For further information about this product, please visit the URL listed below.

Jan.2002

Environmental Protection through Plastic Tube Technology

Sanoh's multi-layer conductive plastic tube is currently the subject of considerable attention in Japan. It has been designed for export to North America, and so it must conform to strict local environmental regulations.
Plastic tube has the advantages of being lightweight and easily formed. Demand for this product is increasing worldwide, however conventional products of this material have been plagued by the problem of gasoline permeation, which results in environmental pollution.
We have succeeded in developing a plastic tube which has a multi-layer structure that dramatically reduces the evapotranspiration of gasoline. Mass production of this product for use in low emission vehicles is contributing significantly to environmental protection.

Dec.2001

Sanoh's Technology Improves Seatbelt Safety

The Sanoh pretensioner pipe is an important security component used in the Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR).
The use of this pipe allows the ELR to instantaneously take up seatbelt slack the moment a collision occurs, firmly restraining the driver and passengers in their seats, and thus providing an improved level of safety in comparison to previous systems. The success of our technical personnel in designing this product has been through the use of pipes with high pressure resistance, and by solving the difficult technical problem of how to prevent the pipe from flattening when it is bent.
The reliable performance and low cost of this pretensioner pipe are expected to result in a significant increase in market demand.

Nov.2001

High Performance Battery for Assisted Bicycle

The Sanoh Ni-MH battery was selected for the Honda Step Compo, a foldable electric-motor assisted bicycle released for sale in Japan in April 2001.
This Sanoh Ni-MH battery was developed to fulfill the requirements of the Step Compo's development theme of "lighter" "smaller" and "further".
Its recyclability, speedy charging time of 2.5 hours and the absence of harmful substances such as lead or cadmium are some of its notable features.

Oct.2001

Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd., supplying nickel hydride batteries for use as robot power sources.

Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd. has continued to develop and research nickel hydride (Ni-MH) battery technology and is currently supplying batteries for use as a robot power source.
Most recently, Sanoh's Ni-MH batteries were used in "ASIMO," a lightweight humanoid robot manufactured by Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

C.E.O. Yozo Takeda & ASIMO