UL Solutions to Develop an Advanced Automotive EMC Laboratory in Japan
UL Solutions a global leader in applied safety science, has announced plans to establish a state-of-the-art automotive electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) laboratory in Toyota City, Japan. This strategic initiative aims to provide cutting-edge testing solutions to help automotive manufacturers mitigate electromagnetic interference that can cause critical vehicle systems, such as braking and engine control, to malfunction. The new facility underscores UL Solutions’ commitment to advancing automotive safety and compliance through rigorous EMC testing.
Addressing the Growing Need for Automotive EMC Testing
Modern vehicles are increasingly incorporating advanced electronic components, featuring faster processing speeds and more complex functionalities. While these innovations improve vehicle performance, they also increase the risk of electromagnetic interference (EMI), which can compromise the reliability of key systems. As a result, EMC testing has become a critical aspect of automotive design and manufacturing, ensuring that electronic components function as intended without being affected by or causing EMI.
EMC testing evaluates a vehicle’s performance and reliability in the presence of electromagnetic disturbances, helping manufacturers meet stringent global regulatory requirements. Compliance with these standards is essential for achieving legal market entry across different regions and protecting vehicle systems from potential malfunctions. With the automotive EMC testing market experiencing substantial growth, the demand for sophisticated testing facilities is expected to continue rising.
As one of the world’s leading automotive manufacturing hubs, Japan plays a pivotal role in this sector. By expanding its footprint in the country, UL Solutions aims to meet the increasing need for independent, science-based EMC services and support manufacturers as they navigate the evolving technological and regulatory landscape.
Strategic Location and Cutting-Edge Capabilities
The upcoming facility, officially named the UL Solutions Automotive Technology and Innovation Center, is set to open in the second half of 2026. It will be developed in Japan’s Tokai region, a significant hub for the automotive industry and home to a robust network of manufacturers and suppliers. Toyota City, in particular, is recognized for its concentration of automotive companies, making it an ideal location for the new laboratory.
Once operational, the facility is expected to be among the few EMC laboratories in Japan equipped to conduct high-voltage, high-current, and high-torque testing. These capabilities will allow manufacturers to simulate real-world operating conditions for a wide range of electronic devices and vehicle systems, providing critical insights into their performance and reliability.
Japan’s Automotive Market and the Rising Demand for EMC Testing
Japan is a dominant force in the global automotive industry, ranking as the third-largest vehicle producer worldwide, with an estimated 9 million vehicles manufactured in 2023. This strong manufacturing presence makes Japan a key market for advanced automotive testing solutions. As electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving technologies continue to evolve, ensuring EMC compliance has become more important than ever.
According to Market Research Guru, the automotive EMC testing market was valued at approximately $1.7 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $2.7 billion by 2030. The increasing complexity of vehicle electronics, combined with stringent regulatory requirements, is fueling this market expansion. UL Solutions’ new laboratory will play a crucial role in meeting this growing demand, providing manufacturers with state-of-the-art testing services that help them achieve compliance and maintain high safety standards.
Advanced Testing Capabilities and Facility Specifications
The planned facility will span 25,000 square feet and include advanced testing chambers capable of handling extreme electrical and mechanical conditions. Key specifications of the laboratory include:
- Maximum rotational speed: Up to 25,000 RPM
- Torque capacity: Over 3,500 Nm
- Power supply capabilities: Up to 1,500 volts and 1,000 amps
These high-voltage, high-current, and high-torque testing capabilities will allow manufacturers to replicate actual operating environments, ensuring that electronic systems perform optimally under real-world conditions. This level of testing is particularly crucial for EVs, where high-power electrical systems must be thoroughly evaluated for safety and reliability.
Industry Leaders Emphasize the Importance of the New Facility
UL Solutions executives have highlighted the strategic importance of the new EMC laboratory in strengthening the company’s global automotive testing capabilities.
“Expanding our operations in Japan enhances our capacity and ability to deliver innovative science-based, independent EMC services,” said Jennifer Scanlon, president and CEO of UL Solutions. “Our new facility is strategically positioned to support both the domestic market and the growing demands of international exports.”
Weifang Zhou, executive vice president and president of Testing, Inspection, and Certification at UL Solutions, echoed this sentiment:
“Japan stands as a pillar of the global automotive industry. The development of our advanced EMC testing laboratory in Japan further elevates our world-class testing capabilities, serving both the automotive industry and its suppliers. This strategic investment is expected to help solidify our comprehensive support for customers, helping them confidently plan and execute successful vehicle market launches.”
Integration into UL Solutions’ Global EMC Testing Network
The Toyota City EMC laboratory will complement UL Solutions’ existing automotive EMC testing facilities in Japan, including the Automotive Technology Center in Miyoshi City. This expansion will enhance UL Solutions’ ability to offer comprehensive testing services within the country while integrating seamlessly into its broader global network of EMC testing centers.
UL Solutions operates EMC testing laboratories in key automotive markets worldwide, including:
- India
- Italy
- South Korea
- Taiwan
- The United Kingdom
- The United States
By leveraging its extensive network of EMC experts and advanced testing capabilities, UL Solutions aims to provide unparalleled support to automotive manufacturers worldwide. This global reach ensures that customers receive consistent and reliable testing services, no matter where they are based.
Supporting Innovation and Compliance in the Evolving Automotive Landscape
The automotive industry is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by advancements in EVs, autonomous driving, and connected vehicle technologies. As vehicles become more reliant on sophisticated electronic systems, ensuring EMC compliance is essential for maintaining safety and reliability. UL Solutions’ investment in its new Toyota City laboratory reflects its commitment to supporting innovation while upholding the highest standards of safety and compliance.
By providing state-of-the-art EMC testing services, the facility will help manufacturers develop cutting-edge technologies that meet regulatory requirements and market expectations. As the industry continues to evolve, UL Solutions remains at the forefront, delivering science-backed solutions that enable safer and more efficient mobility.
The development of the UL Solutions Automotive Technology and Innovation Center in Toyota City marks a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance automotive safety and compliance. By establishing one of Japan’s most advanced EMC testing laboratories, UL Solutions is poised to meet the growing demand for high-quality testing services, ensuring that automotive manufacturers can confidently bring innovative, compliant, and safe vehicles to market.
As the automotive landscape continues to shift toward electrification and automation, UL Solutions’ new facility will play a critical role in supporting the industry’s progression. With its strategic location, cutting-edge capabilities, and integration into a global testing network, the new laboratory is set to become a key asset for automotive manufacturers striving for excellence in EMC performance and regulatory compliance.
