On April 14, 2026, Kanematsu Corporation (“Kanematsu”) signed a memorandum of understanding (“MOU”) with F.C.C. Co., Ltd. (“FCC”) and Taiwanese startup KopherBit Co., Ltd. (“KopherBit”) for the joint development of TCU*1/OTA*2 systems for FCC’s in-vehicle products. Based on this MOU, the three companies will develop interoperable in-vehicle TCU/OTA systems and VCU*3/MCU*4 systems for vehicle control, aiming to achieve next-generation vehicle connectivity. A further goal is to launch the developed products in the Japanese market, as well as in global markets including India and ASEAN countries.

Photo taken at the signing ceremony held in Taiwan on April 14. Photo taken at the signing ceremony held in Taiwan on April 14.
From left: Kanematsu/Motor Vehicles and Parts Dept. 1. General Manager, Koichiro Okamoto
KopherBit/CEO, Wang Yung-Chen
FCC/ Managing Officer, Toshinari Mohara

■Background

As vehicles become increasingly electrified and software-focused, vehicle connectivity to networks is gaining significance in the mobility sector. TCU/OTA systems are a key technology in this respect, enabling new functions to be added and bugs to be fixed on an ongoing basis. However, developing systems tailored to regional market needs and capable of advanced integration with VCU/MCU systems requires cooperation between companies with expertise in the areas of hardware, software, and market deployment. Under this joint development project, the three companies will combine their respective strengths in technology and market knowledge to create new value in the mobility sector, which is rapidly shifting toward electrification and software integration.

■About KopherBit

KopherBit is a startup that spun off from Taiwan’s Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI). Engaged in the development of in-vehicle software platforms such as TCU/OTA systems, KopherBit provides software solutions for electric vehicles and other next-generation mobility applications.

■About FCC

FCC is an automotive parts manufacturer based in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture. Specializing in motorcycle and automobile clutches, FCC supplies products globally from its manufacturing and development sites located across 10 countries worldwide. With the recent advancement of vehicle electrification, FCC also promotes the development of vehicle control systems and electric powertrain technologies. Kanematsu and FCC have worked together as partners for many years.

■Rolls of each company

  • KopherBit: Responsible for developing in-vehicle TCU/OTA systems and services interoperable with FCC-developed main engine motor VCU/MCU systems and enhancing vehicle communications functions and software update functions. KopherBit leverages its deep expertise in development processes based on ISO 26262 (functional safety), ISO 21434 (automotive cybersecurity), and Automotive SPICE (ASPICE) to help deliver high-quality in-vehicle software that ensures both safety and security.
  • FCC: Responsible for developing main engine motor VCU/MCU systems interoperable with KopherBit-developed TCU/OTA systems and deploying the developed products in the Indian and ASEAN markets.
  • Kanematsu: Responsible for identifying needs and developing markets in Japan and globally, offering the joint developed products to Japanese and overseas OEM and tier 1 suppliers, and facilitating cooperation between the three companies in both product development and commercialization to support business promotion.

Ultimately, this MOU envisions building a structure that organically integrates FCC’s hardware assets, such as main engine motors and MCU/VCU systems, with KopherBit’s TCU/OTA platform to provide a one-stop solution for fully integrated electric power units. We aim to create greater value through this fully integrated electric power unit solution, enabling OEM and tier 1 suppliers to reduce development man-hours while ensuring quality. Furthermore, through this partnership, Kanematsu will create new business opportunities in the mobility sector as it continues to evolve rapidly with advancements in electrification and connectivity.

*1 : Telematics Control Unit: A device for controlling in-vehicle communications. It transmits vehicle position information and drive data, serving as an interface for remote services and data utilization.
*2：Over-the-Air: A technology for updating vehicle software remotely via a communication channel.
*3：Vehicle Control Unit: A controller that controls the entire vehicle. In electric vehicles, it serves as the control tower, comprehensively managing driving, regeneration, safety control, and other functions.
*4：Motor Control Unit: A controller that controls the motor. It finely controls motor operations, including acceleration, deceleration, and efficiency.

【Corporate Profile】

Name
 KopherBit Co., Ltd.
Establishment
 April 27, 2022
Representative
 Wang Yung-Chen
Head Office
 Rm. 410, Bldg. 53, No. 195, Sec. 4, Zhongxing Rd., Zhudong Township, Hsinchu County, 310401, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Business
 Development of in-vehicle software and connectivity systems
URL
 https://kopherbit.com/en/

Name
 F.C.C. Co., Ltd.
Establishment
 June 15, 1939
Representative
 Yoshitaka Saito
Head Office
 7000-36, Nakagawa, Hosoe-cho, Hamana-ku, Hamamatsu-shi, Shizuoka 431-1394, Japan
Business
 Development, manufacture, and sale of clutches and other automotive parts for motorcycles and cars
URL
 https://www.fcc-net.co.jp/en

【Contact】

Public Relations Section, Kanematsu Corporation TEL: +81-3-6747-5000 https://www.kanematsu.co.jp/en/inquiry/