As global groupings of carmakers force auto parts makers to intensify domestic competition, Inergy Automotive Systems SA, a French plastic fuel-tank maker, is gearing up to take a larger bite of the fuel tank market in Japan with its advanced technology and worldwide activities.

Despite the sluggish economy, Japan has high potential for the firm to expand its businesses, said Vincent Pairet, president of Inergy Automotive Systems K.K., a Japanese unit based in Tokyo's Shibuya Ward.

"Many Japanese car companies use steel fuel tanks. We believe there is a shift from steel tanks to plastic ones (in Japan)," the Belgian president said in an interview.