Mitsubishi updates Minicab Van: manual gearbox and safety, while FLEX Orca on Hiace wins 2025 camper award

THE KIZAKI CAMP & LAKE RESORT in Nagano Prefecture has opened an online store for its new brand ZAKI PORT. The brand sells apparel and accessories inspired by the nature of Lake Kizaki, designed for both outdoor and daily use. Products include T-shirts, towels, and phone straps.

In Aomori Prefecture, trailer-type structures are being deployed as mobile shelters and temporary accommodation during emergencies. The town of Nakadomari opened a trailer hotel 'Yurapaku Cabin', which serves as a hotel in normal times and converts into an evacuation center during disasters. In Hachinohe city, a private company built a trailer shelter specifically for pet evacuation, including a dog run. Both units can be towed by truck, offering mobility after a disaster.

NTB opened its permanent exhibition site Lots INOUTDOOR in Hachioji, Tokyo on June 26, 2026. The site debuted the AOSAGI camper van, co-developed with YouTuber Kupio (790k subscribers). Based on the Travio platform, it features a boiler, shower, semi-permanent bed, and perforated panels for customization. Also on display: the HARUKA (successor to SAKURA) and EXPEDITION STRIKER, the industry's first Phase-Free certified camper.

Mukawa town in Iburi, facing a shortage of hotels, will start a pilot project in July 2026 using travel trailers as temporary accommodation. A preview was held on June 16. The project aims to address the lack of lodging during the tourist season.

Evotrex, a developer of hybrid caravans, has closed a $30 million Series A round, bringing total funding to $46 million. Investors include GSR United Capital, Forebright Concerto Capital, Pegasus Capital, TTGG Ventures, and seed investor Anker. The PG5 model features a 43 kWh battery, 1.5 kW solar panels, and a 75 kW gasoline generator, enabling off-grid stays of up to 7 days. It also supports regenerative braking and V2V charging at up to 60 kW. The Premium trim is priced at approximately $159,990.

Kanazawa City has published a guide on its website for forced car sleeping during disasters. The document emphasizes that this method is not recommended but provides tips on safety, health, and necessary supplies. Two parking lots—Johoku Civic Park (south lot) and Minami Sports Park—have been designated as official car sleeping evacuation sites.