TIER IV, a leader in autonomous driving innovation, has achieved a significant milestone by securing a permit for Level 4 autonomous driving operations in Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture. This accomplishment, made possible through collaboration with local government and service operators, marks a pivotal step in advancing autonomous mobility solutions.
Key Highlights
- Level 4 Certification: TIER IV obtained Level 4 certification under the Road Transport Vehicle Act in October 2024. The new permit, issued under the Road Traffic Act, authorizes fully autonomous driving under predefined conditions.
- Public Road Testing: The company’s Minibus will conduct tests on public roads shared with pedestrians and general traffic, running between Shiojiri Station and Shiojiri City Hall.
- Regional Impact: TIER IV aims to address transportation challenges like driver shortages and advance the implementation of autonomous driving services.
Since 2020, TIER IV has collaborated with partners to conduct proof-of-concept tests for autonomous driving technology, aiming to establish innovative mobility services. With the newly granted permit, the company plans to deploy a Level 4 autonomous driving system capable of independently managing all driving tasks under specified conditions.
The upcoming tests in Shiojiri will utilize TIER IV’s Minibus, which is designed to operate seamlessly in shared spaces with pedestrians and traditional traffic. This initiative reflects TIER IV’s dedication to creating practical solutions for regional transportation issues while setting the foundation for future autonomous mobility.
“Our efforts in Shiojiri demonstrate the potential of autonomous driving to solve critical challenges, such as driver shortages, and bring transformative solutions to communities,” stated a TIER IV representative.
About TIER IV
TIER IV is a pioneer in autonomous driving technology, known for developing Autoware, the world’s first open-source software for autonomous driving. As a founding member of the Autoware Foundation, TIER IV provides scalable platforms and comprehensive solutions, empowering the development and deployment of intelligent vehicles globally. Through open-source innovation, TIER IV is shaping the future of autonomous mobility.
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