Hitachi delivers innovations that answer society’s challenges.
With our talented team and proven experience in global markets, we can inspire the world.
History of Hitachi's Social Innovation
Since its founding over a century ago, Hitachi has helped people live fulfilling lives through social innovation.
We will continue to tackle evolving social challenges while inspiring the world.
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1910-
Accelerating Industrial Development With Unique Technology and Products
Founded in 1910, Hitachi manufactured its first product, electrical machinery for the Hitachi Mine, and moved on to develop Japan's first water turbine generator and large electric locomotives. At a time when Japan was still reliant on imported technology, Hitachi paved the way for domestic production with trial and error.
Right after the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923, Hitachi delivered and repaired rotary transformers and electric motors, contributing to the restoration of urban electricity infrastructure. In the process, a variety of products were developed, including passenger elevators, escalators, diesel trucks, and electron microscopes, contributing to the growth of the industry.
When the first water supply system was introduced in Japan, Hitachi provided pumps and electrical equipment. The electrical control panel delivered in 1934 enabled collaboration between equipment operators and distribution board monitors, becoming the precursor to the monitoring control systems that support today's advanced water supply and sewage systems.
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1950-
Foster Cutting-Edge Technology Innovation to Support Economic Growth
Japan’s recovery after World War II began with the revitalization of key industries such as electric power/energy, steel, and logistics. Hitachi focused on building hydroelectric power facilities, manufacturing steel-making equipment, and railway vehicles, all supporting people's livelihoods.
As Japan’s economy started to grow, Hitachi rapidly expanded its electronics manufacturing including computers and made a great leap forward as an electronics manufacturer. In 1960, Hitachi developed the world's first seat reservation system for trains, which became the prototype for systems still widely used today. Furthermore, Hitachi drove economic growth through the development of infrastructure such as the Shinkansen, monorails, and ATMs. The manufacturing of home appliances like televisions, refrigerators, and washing machines was accelerated, innovating products people had long desired.
Around this time, environmental problems such as air pollution and water quality degradation were reported in various places across Japan. Hitachi acknowledged these challenges and began innovating solutions for environmental protection, including wastewater treatment and air pollution monitoring.
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1990-
Becoming a Leading Global Company in the World
The evolution and widespread use of computers and IT have significantly changed our world, impacting everything including government, corporate activities, and individual lifestyles. Hitachi began to shift its focus of manufacturing from traditional hardware to system solutions, expanding its presence globally.
Hitachi's equipment and systems are in place around the world to address various challenges such as wastewater treatment, greening of barren areas, seawater desalination, and securing water resources. To the rail industry, we provide railway vehicles, vehicle systems, railway traffic control systems and more. These systems not only ensure safety and comfort but also have a lower environmental impact compared to other transportation means, enabling mass transit and contributing to energy conservation and the mitigation of global warming.
In 2016, we developed the IoT platform "Lumada," aiming to create value and solve challenges by working with customers. We face many challenges as we work toward the future. We believe our expertise can continue to innovate solutions for cancer treatment, universal design, robot development, and fully autonomous driving. Hitachi will keep addressing social issues with digital solutions, relying on over 100 years of expertise.
* Some images are cited from “Hitachi Review.”
