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TIER IV, a leader in autonomous driving technology, has been chosen by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) to spearhead a project focused on deploying robotaxis for transportation and autonomous trucks for logistics. This initiative aims to accelerate digital transformation in the mobility sector through the development and testing of autonomous vehicles. The project has been allocated a grant of up to $4.5 million (¥700 million) for the fiscal year 2024.
Key Highlights:
- TIER IV is developing a new robotaxi vehicle in collaboration with Toray Carbon Magic.
- Proof of Concept (PoC) tests for robotaxis are being conducted in Tokyo with Nihon Kotsu.
- A robotaxi hub is being verified in partnership with AMANE.
- TIER IV is accelerating the development of autonomous trucks with Isuzu and Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus.
- PoC tests for autonomous trucks will be conducted on the Shin-Tomei Expressway, featuring a priority lane for autonomous vehicles.
In May 2024, TIER IV announced plans to launch its robotaxi business in Tokyo. Partnering with various companies, TIER IV is working on initiatives to prepare for the mass production of robotaxi vehicles and the nationwide deployment of these services. The collaboration includes the development of a new robotaxi vehicle with Toray Carbon Magic and PoC tests in Tokyo with Nihon Kotsu. Additionally, TIER IV is verifying the concept of a robotaxi hub with AMANE.
Simultaneously, TIER IV is advancing the core functions of autonomous driving systems for highway trucks. The company is working on developing autonomous trucks based on vehicles from Isuzu and Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus, with technical support from these OEMs. PoC tests are planned for the Shin-Tomei Expressway, where a priority lane for autonomous vehicles will be installed.
TIER IV’s involvement in this METI project underscores its commitment to delivering cutting-edge transportation and logistics solutions, driving innovation and efficiency in the autonomous vehicle sector.
About TIER IV
TIER IV is a pioneer in deep tech innovation, leading the way with Autoware, the world’s first open-source software for autonomous driving. The company builds scalable platforms and delivers comprehensive solutions across software development, vehicle manufacturing, and service operations. As a founding member of the Autoware Foundation, the company is dedicated to advancing open-source software, empowering the global development of intelligent vehicles.
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