TOKYO REPORT: Japanese Firms Tap Self-Driving to Ease Local Transport Woes

Tokyo, March 2 (Jiji Press)–As Japan struggles with a nationwide shortage of drivers, major automakers, leading telecommunications companies and startups are ramping up efforts to introduce autonomous driving on local public bus routes. Self-driving technologies are also being developed for shuttle services at events and leisure facilities. Aiming for Level 4 autonomy–or fully unmanned driving under certain conditions–such players are accelerating work not only on vehicle technologies but also on the artificial intelligence that controls driving and the communications infrastructure that supports it. Broad adoption, however, will rest on establishing strong safety measures and cutting costs. AI-Driven Efficiency In late January, Toyota Motor Corp. held a briefing on its new e-Palette electric vehicle, designed for use as a route bus and in similar services. At the event, the company unveiled a new transportation system under consideration. Cameras installed mainly at bus stops and in vehicles track passenger movements. AI then analyzes the data in real time and optimizes operations by adjusting dwell time for boarding and alighting, service frequency and the number of vehicles in operation. “By utilizing AI, efficient operation becomes possible,” a Toyota official said. The e-Palette, which went on sale last autumn, is a compact EV that can carry 17 people including the driver. Though its width and length are roughly those of a minivan, its tall cabin allows passengers to stand comfortably. The vehicle can travel up to 250 kilometers on a single charge, and its compact design makes it easy to maneuver on narrow roads. Beyond regular route services, the e-Palette can also function as a shuttle for event venues and various facilities. Chief engineer Hirofumi Ota, who led its development, said, “We want to work with local governments to develop new communities.” Toyota has also partnered with Tier IV Inc., a Tokyo-based startup, to introduce advanced driver assistance. The current system supports Level 2 autonomous driving, in which the driver remains responsible for operation and intervenes as needed. Toyota aims to upgrade the system to Level 4 autonomy in fiscal 2027. A future in which AI not only plans operations but also handles much of the driving itself is beginning to come into view. Communications System A robust communications system, which can continuously transmit information on road conditions and monitor driver and passenger status, is essential to the rollout of self-driving buses. In January, NTT Docomo Business Inc. and its partners conducted a demonstration of a Level 2 autonomous bus at Yokohama Zoological Gardens “Zoorasia” in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, eastern Japan. The trial focused on securing high-quality, reliable communications. Leveraging 5G ultrahigh-speed, large-capacity wireless technology, the team tested a system that transmits operational data and in-vehicle video to remote monitoring staff in real time. They also evaluated mechanisms for predicting communications conditions and automatically adjusting base stations and frequency bands to maintain stable connectivity. During the four-day verification test, around 200 people took part in trial rides. The partners in the test aim to introduce Level 4 autonomous driving on selected sections of public roads by fiscal 2027. A number of obstacles still need to be overcome, however, including the need to navigate around parked vehicles and operate safely on roads with poor visibility. An NTT Docomo Business representative expressed caution, noting that “Level 4 cannot be realized unless the accuracy of autonomous driving is further improved.” Level 4 autonomous driving refers to systems that can perform all driving operations under specific, limited conditions. This corresponds to “High Driving Automation,” the second-highest level defined by the U.S. Society of Automotive Engineers. In Japan, a revised road traffic law took effect in April 2023, allowing Level 4 vehicles to operate on public roads if their operating plans are approved by prefectural public safety commissions. To receive approval, operators must ensure remote monitoring of vehicles, establish systems to respond in the event of an accident and implement rigorous cybersecurity measures. According to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan was already experiencing a nationwide shortage of 21,000 bus drivers as of 2024. The shortfall is projected to widen to 36,000 by 2030, heightening hopes that autonomous driving technology can help fill the gap. Numerous challenges remain before self-driving buses can be deployed in practical, everyday service. The advanced vehicles, monitoring infrastructure and related equipment required for such services entail substantial costs. Securing public understanding and acceptance of driverless vehicles on public roads is also crucial to their broader adoption. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]