Kohnan Corporation and T2 Launch Autonomous Truck Transport for Home Center Products

Kohnan Corporation and T2 Revolutionize Supply Chain with Autonomous Trucks

In a groundbreaking initiative, Kohnan Corporation, headquartered in Osaka, and T2, based in Tokyo, have commenced commercial operations for autonomous truck transport. This service began on July 14, 2026, aimed at efficiently transporting products from Kohnan’s home centers between the Kanto and Kansai regions of Japan.

Kohnan Corporation, renowned for its extensive home improvement and gardening products, has faced challenges due to a shortage of truck drivers, essential for long-distance logistics from the Kansai region to Kanto and Kyushu. The company has proactively sought solutions, which include optimizing inventory management, launching a new distribution center in 2025, and adopting automated sorting technologies.

As part of these efforts, Kohnan has closely collaborated with T2, aspiring to commence level 4 autonomous truck transport by 2027. This partnership initiated a series of demonstrations starting September 2025, utilizing level 2 autonomous trucks. Leading up to the scheduled commercial operations, four successful demonstrations were conducted by April 2026. During these trials, Kohnan evaluated the trucks' safety and transportation quality, ultimately deciding to transition into regular commercial operations.

Operational Details of the Autonomous Truck Service

The newly launched commercial transport runs approximately 520 kilometers in a round trip between Kohnan’s logistics centers located in Kawasaki, Kanagawa, and Kaizuka, Osaka. The route includes a designated level 2 autonomous section – approximately 410 kilometers – along the Tomei Expressway from Ayase Smart Interchange (Kanagawa) to the Keiji Bypass, specifically the Kumiyama Junction (Kyoto).

The trucks primarily transport construction materials and daily goods unique to Kohnan’s offerings as a home center. By incorporating autonomous trucks into their logistics, Kohnan aims to improve efficiency and reduce the typical constraints posed by the limited availability of drivers.

Moreover, this venture marks a significant step towards Kohnan’s goal of integrating T2's evolving level 4 autonomous transportation services into their operations. The partnership reflects a future-forward approach that embraces cutting-edge technology in logistics, underscoring Kohnan's commitment to innovation in the retail space.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Autonomous Logistics

Kohnan Corporation and T2's collaboration signifies an important milestone in the logistics industry, especially amid ongoing discussions about labor shortages and evolving technology. As both companies continue to enhance their systems, they aim to not only streamline operations but also pave the way for broader implementation of autonomous transport in various logistics scenarios across Japan.

For continuous updates, interested parties can follow the developments and future offers through Kohnan Corporation’s and T2’s official communication channels including their websites and social media platforms.