Taking a cue from Sansui, yes washing machines are the new hot market. https://www.akai.co.nz/product/6kg-front-load-washing-machine/
It's strange, I always had this idea in my head that Akai was kind of cheap rubbish, possibly because none of their good stuff made it here. As such, it does seem a bit weird that they would reuse the brand name in this neck of the woods (yes, these are available in Australia too).
Lately there's been a trend of brand-licensing, where businessmen bid for the right to use the brand name in specific countries for specific categories of products. So one group of businessmen could buy the right to sell Akai washing machines in 2-3 countries, while another business buys the right to sell Akai earbuds in another 2-3 countries. It's the same thing that's been happening with Aiwa, Sanyo, and Panasonic these days. It's horrendous to see the low-quality stuff being sold under those names.
AKAI pretty much perfected spinning drums with no background noise, unfortunately with the much larger belts, the goo to clean up when they get old is in quarts not mL's. I am a little surprised they didn't build a radio into one of these, just for old times sake.
Everything is explained here : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akai From the old Akai today there is Akai Professional making drum machines etc and Akai making washing machine drums and other home appliances.
