Mazda completes new KD Centre in Hiroshima, featuring automated systems and 2.2MW solar power installation

Mazda has completed construction of its new KD Centre in the Dejima district of Hiroshima Port, Japan, with operations scheduled to begin in January 2027.

Covering approximately 55,000 square metres, the facility will handle the packing and shipment of vehicle assembly parts to Mazda's overseas production plants.

It also features automated warehousing and packaging systems, alongside a 2.2MW rooftop solar installation.

New Mazda KD Centre

Located in Hiroshima's Minami Ward, the new centre will process knock-down (KD) parts – components shipped to overseas factories for vehicle assembly.

Its operations will cover the collection, sorting, storage and packaging of parts, as well as loading them into shipping containers for transport to Mazda's production facilities outside Japan.

The facility replaces Mazda's existing KD centre in the Kaita district near Hiroshima Port. Its location in Dejima gives the company access to the area's developing international container terminal facilities and port infrastructure capable of accommodating larger vessels.

This is expected to improve the efficiency and reliability of parts shipments to overseas plants.

Automated systems

The new centre incorporates automated systems for parts handling and pallet packaging, reducing the amount of manual work required in day-to-day logistics operations.

Mazda has also separated pedestrian and vehicle routes within the facility to improve safety, while a zoned air-conditioning system is designed to provide more suitable working conditions in different areas.

The facility also introduces revised procedures for trucks delivering parts from suppliers. Dedicated staff will operate forklifts to unload deliveries, reducing waiting times and the physical workload for drivers. A rest area is also provided for truck drivers while their vehicles are being unloaded.

2.2MW rooftop solar installation

A 2.2MW solar power system has been installed on the centre's roof. The electricity generated will be used to support the facility's daily operations and reduce its reliance on conventional power sources.

The installation forms part of Mazda's broader carbon-neutrality strategy. The company has previously set a target of achieving carbon neutrality at all its global production facilities by 2035, through measures including energy-saving initiatives, greater use of renewable energy and the adoption of carbon-neutral fuels.

Mazda KD Centre key details

• Location: Dejima district, Hiroshima Port, Minami Ward, Hiroshima City, Japan
• Site area: Approximately 55,000 square metres
• Building area: Approximately 35,000 square metres
• Construction began: April 2025
• Construction completed: 6 November 2026
• Operations scheduled to begin: January 2027
• Main function: Collection, storage, packaging and shipment of parts for overseas vehicle production
• Solar power capacity: 2.2MW

Once operational, the new centre will serve as a key link between Mazda's Japanese operations and its overseas manufacturing plants, with automated logistics and on-site renewable energy supporting its global production network.

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