HIROSHIMA: Mazda Motor Corp's new KD Centre in the Dejima district of Hiroshima Port will serve as a logistics hub supplying knockdown (KD) parts, which are used to assemble vehicles, to all Mazda production sites outside Japan.
Operations are due to start in January 2027.
Its operations will include receiving, storing, and packing parts, as well as loading them into ocean freight containers.
By connecting Hiroshima with Mazda production sites around the world through logistics, the centre will play an important role in supporting Mazda’s global production operations.
The new facility replaces the KD centre previously located in the Kaita district of Hiroshima Port.
The new centre is also designed to improve logistics efficiency.
The storage and retrieval of parts, as well as the packing of parts onto pallets, are automated.
Pedestrian and vehicle routes are separated, and zoned air conditioning has been installed throughout the facility.
The centre also streamlines entry procedures for trucks delivering parts from suppliers.
Dedicated forklift operators unload the trucks, helping to shorten handling times and reduce the workload on truck drivers.
A driver lounge is also available for use while trucks are being unloaded.
In addition, rooftop solar panels with a generating capacity of 2.2MW supply a portion of the electricity used at the facility.
At the completion ceremony, Mazda Motor Corp managing executive officer and CSCO (chief supply chain officer) Kazuhiko Sumi commented, “From Hiroshima, we bring the manufacturing capabilities we have continuously honed here to the world, working as one with overseas production sites to deliver value to our customers."
"This facility is the starting point for that effort. Each and every part shipped from here represents more than just the movement of goods. It ultimately becomes part of a vehicle that meets the expectations of customers around the world and helps build trust in the Mazda brand.”
