Mr. Satoru Asaka, who was responsible for the development of the Honda Freed, won the Japan Car of the Year 2024-2025.
On December 5th, the Japan Car of the Year Executive Committee held the final selection and award ceremony of the “2024-2025 Japan Car of the Year”. Honda “Freed” was chosen as “Japanese car of the Year 2024-2025”.
The reason the award was given to Freed was, “It’s a 5 size car with 3 rows of seats. Because it is a family car that is used a lot in the Japanese market, it is true that it has been difficult to prove until now. standout character.Honda has cut into that. In addition to easy-to-use filtering, we also have an improvement in the dynamic texture and In addition to the gasoline engine model, the unique hybrid Honda “e:HEV” is also of interest.
“Car of the Year in Japan” Mr. Satoru Asaka, who was responsible for the development of Freed at Honda Motor Co., Ltd., took the podium at the award ceremony for 2024-2025. He saeid, “At Honda Motor Co., Ltd., we are always thinking about how we want to be of service to our customers, and we are developing products for motorcycles, We are always developing new multi-purpose products. At Freed, we are always aware of the company’s beliefs, and we are always thinking about how we can help our customers through the word “just right” that we inherited “I did,” he said .
Regarding Freed, Mr. Asaka said, “The brand concept of Freed is ‘Smile’ Just Right Mover, and it has a concept and keywords of peace of mind and smiling every day. What this means is that we have developed the word “just right” that Freed inherited, and changed the expression to “just right” and Mover has always been able to put it expressed in a different way, from everyday life to holidays We also want cars to support the lives of customers in different situations, so we decided called it Mover because we wanted to support it with cars.”
Regarding the keyword “smile” used in the concept, Mr.Asaka said,“By supporting the lives of our customers with this car,we hope that they will be able to feel comfortable and smile again,and that it will give this is an possibility for them. a new sense of comfort. We wanted to help create a good circle, so we used key words like the smile at the beginning,” he explained.
Regarding his thoughts on the Freed, Mr. Asaka said, “The Freed Air is a car that blends into everyday life, while the Crosster is a car that allows you to actively enjoy your leisure time and brought into their lives. We wanted to create a car that blends in with people,so that it doesn’t overtake people,but crawls with them. We don’t have sharp parts like othre cars, but we are trying to make a difference in the city life for our customers.
Commenting on this award, Mr. Asaka said, “I am very happy that this car has won the Japanese Car of the Year award so honourably.All the members who developed it are very happy. ., Ltd. and the development team, I want to express my gratitude
2024–2025 Import Car of the Year
BM’s MINI Cooper wins 2024-2025 Import Car of the year Award.
As for other awards,BM’s MINI Cooper won the 2024-2025 Import Car of the Year Award.
The reason for the award is: “Simplicity, an exciting driving feeling, and radicalism… The new MINI Cooper has evolved to a high level everything that users expect from its customary name. There are four imported car among the top 10.Among the selected vehicles, not only EVs but also gasoline engines The only model in the lineup is the MINI Cooper.It is worth noting that it is equipped with the same safety equipment and driver support systems as the BMW 7 series, and packed with practicality and fun, such as a digital cockpit and the active. the use of recycled materials is also captivating.”
2024–2025 design Car of the Year
2024–2025 Design Car of the Year awarded to Triton Mitsubishi motors
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation’s Triton has been awarded the 2024-2025 Design Car of the Year Award. The reason for the award is: “Mitsubishi won the design award for the second time last year in the 4WD specialty. Although it looks rough at first glance,it received the award for its design that reflects a new lifestyle. The heavy front end design, which the company calls “Dynamic Shield”, harmonizes with its strong form. Even though it is indeed a difficult double cab, it has achieved well-balanced proportions.”
Technology Car of the Year 2024–2025
Honda “CR-V e:FCEV” wins “technology Car of the Year 2024–2025”
The 2024-2025 Technology Car of the Year award went to the Honda CR-V e:FCEV. The award was given to Honda’s CR-V e:FCEV, a pioneer in fuel cell vehicles. Aimed to democratize FCEV, which is still a minor player, the company has achieved smaller stocks and higher efficiency.Simultaneously occurring, it has reduced It also has high durability and durability, so the importance of bringing it into the popular mid-class SUV category.plug-in hybrid that can be recharged externally.
executive Committee Special Award
2024–2025 Japan Executive Committee Car of the Year Special Award goes to “Mazda e-SKYACTIV R-EV”
The “2024-2025 Japan Car of the Year Executive Committee Special Award” was awarded to “Mazda e-SKYACTIV R-EV.” The reason for the award was “Mazda’s unique technology, the first rotary engine in the world to be successfully put into practical use. The e-SKYACTIV is a new power unit that uses this unique Japanese technological asset as a generator, which looks like it was dying. due to environmental issues.
Japanese Car of the Year 2024-2025 Selection Ceremony/Final Award
How does the introduction of the Honda e:HEV hybrid model reflect Honda’s commitment to sustainability?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Satoru Asaka, Developer of Honda Freed
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good afternoon, everyone! Today, we have a special guest with us—Mr. Satoru Asaka, who led the progress of the Honda Freed, which has just been named the Japan Car of the Year for 2024-2025. Congratulations, Mr. Asaka!
Satoru Asaka (SA): Thank you very much! It’s an honor to be here and to discuss this recognition with you.
TNE: The Honda Freed has been praised for its blend of functionality and design, especially as a family car in Japan’s unique market. What were some of the key factors you considered in its development?
SA: Our main focus was on creating a family vehicle that is practical yet distinct in its character. We wanted the Freed to be a “just right” car—neither too small nor too large—making it suitable for various family needs. The three rows of seats were designed specifically with families in mind, offering adaptability for everyday use and special occasions.
TNE: that’s a thoughtful approach! You mentioned the term ”just right”—how did that beliefs influence the design and features of the Freed?
SA: The concept of “just right” embodies our commitment to understanding customer needs. It pushes us to think beyond conventional parameters of comfort and convenience. We wanted a vehicle that fits seamlessly into customers’ daily lives, from errands to vacations. the Freed serves as a tool to enhance those experiences, ensuring families feel agreeable and supported.
TNE: You’ve also introduced a unique hybrid model called the Honda e:HEV. How does this fit within your vision for the Freed?
SA: The e:HEV model is part of our broader effort to innovate in environmentally pleasant technology while maintaining the car’s character.We aim to provide choices for our customers—those who prefer the traditional gasoline engine and those who are ready to embrace hybrid technology. Our goal is to cater to varying preferences while promoting sustainability.
TNE: The award is certainly a testament to your team’s hard work. Can you share your feelings upon receiving the Japan Car of the Year award?
SA: It’s deeply fulfilling. Winning this award is not just a validation of our efforts but also a recognition of our entire team’s dedication. Every member who contributed to the Freed’s development shares in this joy, and it reflects our collective commitment to our customers at Honda.
TNE: Besides the Freed, the 2024-2025 Import Car of the Year went to the MINI Cooper.What are your thoughts on the competition from international brands?
SA: The automotive market is incredibly dynamic, and competition drives innovation. I respect what the MINI Cooper represents—its distinctive approach to design and driving experience. However,our focus remains on how we can provide the best value and service to Japanese families. Each car has its unique strengths, and ultimately, it comes down to what resonates most with consumers.
TNE: Final question—what do you envision for the future of Honda and the Freed?
SA: we want to continue evolving and adapting to our customers’ needs, particularly in a rapidly changing world. Our vision for the Freed is to further enhance its utility while ensuring it brings joy and peace of mind to families. We believe that as we innovate, we will create more opportunities for our customers to smile every day.
TNE: thank you for sharing your insights, Mr. Asaka! It’s clear that your passion and customer-centric approach are what sets the Freed apart. Congratulations once again on this well-deserved recognition!
SA: Thank you! It was a pleasure discussing this with you.