Hitachi deploys Google AI in operations, seeks new HMAX innovations

Hitachi Ltd on Friday said it has expanded its strategic alliance with Google Cloud to develop artificial intelligence agents with the stated aim of accelerating operational transformation for frontline workers in social infrastructure sectors such as energy, railways, and manufacturing lines.

Hitachi, a Tokyo-based conglomerate, said it has expanded into operational technology through its May 2024 partnership with the cloud computing platform of Alphabet Inc, a Mountain View, California-based technology holding company and Google owner.

Google's Gemini Enterprise AI platform can simultaneously understand and process text, images, audio, and video, which Hitachi believes makes it highly compatible with frontline tasks.

By using Gemini Enterprise, even users who lack specialised knowledge can create AI agents to perform specific tasks to streamline workflows.

To support the development of AI agents for this purpose, Hitachi has established an Agent factory.

"Going forward, Hitachi will adopt a "Customer Zero" approach, focusing first on internal implementation. The company will work to create a variety of use cases within the Hitachi Group using Google Cloud, while also promoting the democratization of AI agents—empowering employees to develop solutions themselves using no-code tools, based on the expertise gained through these efforts," Hitachi explained.

Hitachi said its GlobalLogic digital engineering subsidiary will be key to initially deploying and adopting Gemini Enterprise, while technical proof-of-concept work has commenced at Hitachi Power Solutions.

"Hitachi aims to foster an environment where new ideas for technology and operational improvements can emerge from the ground up. Hitachi will then offer these proven outcomes and field-driven innovations as part of HMAX to customers facing similar challenges, contributing to the enhanced sustainability and safety of social infrastructure," the company said.

HMAX is a digital asset management platform from Hitachi Rail that can identify issues and optimise networks to transform rail operations.