Tier IV has been selected for a project that will aim to deploy robotaxis for transportation, and autonomous trucks for logistics. Overseen by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the initiative is designed to promote digital transformation in the mobility sector through autonomous driving development and proof of concept (PoC) tests. The maximum grant amount for the project in fiscal year 2024 is $4.5 million (700 million yen).
Tier IV’s participation in the project follows its announcement to launch a robotaxi business in Tokyo. In collaboration with partner companies, the company is currently working on several initiatives both in anticipation for the mass production of robotaxi vehicles, and the nationwide deployment of robotaxi services. Here, it is developing a new robotaxi vehicle with Toray Carbon Magic, conducting Tokyo robotaxi PoC tests with Nihon Kotsu, and verifying a robotaxi hub with AMANE.
While detailing its role in the new project, Tier IV also announced new efforts to accelerate the development of the core functions of autonomous driving systems for highway trucks. Through these efforts, it ultimately plans to provide reference designs to truck manufacturers to drive the deployment of AVs in the logistics sector. The company’s initiatives here will include the development of new autonomous trucks based on vehicles from Isuzu and Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus, with technical support from both OEMs. PoC tests will then be conducted on Shin-Tomei Expressway, where a priority lane for autonomous vehicles is set to be installed
Tier IV has said that its participation in the METI project reflects its commitment to delivering transportation and logistics solutions that help meet the demands of the modern world, while driving innovation and efficiency.
