AVL Focus - Issue 2025

n May 19, 2025, AVL Japan launched its first Skills

­Center in Nagoya, joining AVL’s global network

for advanced technical training in the automotive

industry. Equipped with state-of-the-art AVL simulators,

testing systems, and interactive learning facilities, the cen-

ter provides hands-on, comprehensive training programs

designed to meet the evolving needs of the mobility sector.

Comprehensive Learning Options

Courses are available both in person and through remote

participation, enabling flexible access for engineers and

technicians across Japan. The curriculum combines

globally standardized content with modules customized

for local ­market requirements. Certified trainers from AVL’s

international network deliver sessions in Japanese and

English, ensuring accessibility while covering the latest

technologies, regulatory developments, and industry best

practices.

Next Steps in Collaboration

Future plans include collaboration with the AVL Japan

Technical Center (JTC), which will further deepen expertise

in the field of practical testing. This new hub enhances

AVL’s customer service capabilities, fostering innovation

and talent development in the mobility industry. 

AVL Japan Opens

First Skills Center

in Nagoya

­testbed (­PTTB), we have demonstrated to Japanese cus-

tomers how advanced calibration of drivability (ACD) can

significantly improve processes that previously required

extensive manual work on the test track. JTC has auto-

mated and streamlined this complex process, dramatically

reducing the workload while maintaining high precision

and efficiency. We have also improved hybrid vehicle

fuel efficiency using a battery emulator to adjust state of

charge (SoC) without real batteries, significantly increasing

development efficiency.

You were involved in the founding of JTC. What challeng-

es did you face?

Nishizawa: Introducing AVL's cutting-edge technology

to Japan for the first time posed a significant challenge.

Through both failures and successes, JTC has sincerely

responded to our customers and now earns the unwaver-

ing trust which has become the core of our business.

In 2024, JTC introduced a brake emission facility. What

was that experience like?

Nishizawa: We were the first AVL affiliate worldwide to do

so, which meant facing many unknowns. Collaboration

with AVL headquarters and affiliates worldwide, working

as “One AVL,” was key to success. Customer feedback was

extremely positive, and utilization remains high.

What is your vision as Technical Center Manager?

Nishizawa: I am deeply honored to take on this position.

My vision moving forward is centered around three main

pillars: promoting technological innovation – especially in

electrification and autonomous driving – strengthening

global collaboration to ensure world-class solutions for

Japanese customers, and developing human resources to

further enhance our technological capabilities, enabling us

to provide higher-quality services for our customers.

Could you share a message for those newly joining AVL?

Nishizawa: AVL is characterized by a flat culture that

transcends borders and nationalities, fostering an environ-

ment where new colleagues are warmly welcomed and

supported. In addition, AVL boasts a wealth of engineers

with strong technical expertise, creating a supportive

environment for new members to grow as professionals.

I hope you will make the most of your abilities within this

unique AVL culture. 

2025