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F1 wheel rims to be supplied by Japan's BBS

Jan 11 (Nikkei) - A Japanese manufacturer will be the exclusive supplier of the new standard wheel rims being introduced in Formula One and NASCAR this season, Nikkei learned Monday.

BBS Japan, a wheel maker under the umbrella of the Maedakosen group, has signed four- and three-year contracts with the governing bodies of F1 and NASCAR, respectively. BBS was likely selected for its track record or supplying F1 teams.

The deals will be announced at the Tokyo Auto Salon car show kicking off Friday.

F1 is introducing standardized wheels as part of a major rules revamp aimed at encouraging closer racing and reining in development costs. Tires are already provided by a single supplier, a position once held by Bridgestone.

The extreme conditions endured by F1 cars make the competition a valuable laboratory for automakers. F1 races have become opportunities for companies like Mercedes-Benz and Ferrari to showcase top-of-the-line technology.

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China says it will resume allowing visa-free visits by Japanese nationals on short-term trips from the end of this month. (NHK)

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries held an emergency meeting to address the rapid outbreak of avian influenza, urging prefectural governments to strengthen hygiene management measures.

Japan is facing a deepening crisis of poverty and inequality, with rising reports of 'invisible homeless' individuals and growing economic hardships among the population. Discussions over reforms to the country's tax and welfare systems have taken center stage, as policymakers grapple with how to provide meaningful support.

A special lighting ceremony was held on November 20th at Ueno Toshogu Shrine, located in Ueno Park, Taito Ward, Tokyo. The event featured a unique lighting design created by renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii.

A Japanese pharmaceutical company has announced the successful commercialization of fiber made from silk produced by bagworms.

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Hifumi Kato, affectionately known as 'Hifumin,' has been officially recognized by Guinness World Records for the longest-running chess puzzle column in a magazine.

A male caretaker at Tennoji Zoo in Osaka has been sent to prosecutors on suspicion of stealing vegetables and fruits used as monkey feed.

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A human hand was discovered protruding from the ground at a cemetery in Nara City on November 18th, around 1:30 p.m.

Tanikawa Shuntaro -- a renowned Japanese poet who used his keen sense of observation in creating a vast body of work -- has died of old age. He was 92. (NHK)