#Japan #Tokyo #TOTO #T2 #Autonomous Trucks

T2 and TOTO: A New Era in Transporting Sanitary Ware

In an impressive collaboration, T2, a technology company based in Tokyo, and TOTO, a well-known manufacturer from Kitakyushu, are preparing to test an innovative solution aimed at revolutionizing the transportation of sanitary ware, such as toilets and sinks. Starting September 2025, they plan to conduct trials utilizing T2's self-driving trucks on select highway routes between the Kanto and Kansai regions of Japan.

The Challenge of Transporting Sanitary Ware

Transporting delicate products like toilets and sinks demands careful handling to prevent damage during transit. With the ongoing issue of a declining number of truck drivers, establishing a stable and sustainable transportation system has become increasingly urgent. In response to this challenge, T2 will use its level 2 automated trucks to transport these sensitive items efficiently. This initiative not only aims to improve logistics but also to enhance the overall quality and reliability of the delivery service.

Details of the Trial

The planned series of trials will span from September 18, 2025, with four different sessions scheduled on a section of the highway. The route will be from TOTO's Shiga second factory in Koka City to the TOTO logistics center in Chiba City. This two-part collaboration will see T2 manage the overall project while providing the trucks, while TOTO will supply the cargo for testing.

Specific Details of the Trial:

• - Period: Begins on September 18, 2025, with a total of four trials planned.
• - Location: Select parts of the highway connecting the Kansai and Kanto regions.
• - Cargo: Various sanitary wares, including toilets and sinks.

To ensure a seamless execution of the project, all trials will have a driver present in the vehicle, adhering to level 2 automation standards. The objectives of the tests include:

1. Verification of Driving Routes: Analyzing the efficiency and lead time of self-driving transportation with loaded cargo.
2. Operation Patterns: Assessing the effectiveness of the planned operational procedures.
3. Impact on Products: Investigating how automated transport affects the condition of the sanitary ware.

Future Implications

Depending on the results from the trials, both companies will explore further collaboration. T2 aims to start commercial operations using its level 2 self-driving trucks starting in July 2025, and by 2027, they plan to introduce level 4 autonomous trucks for long-haul transportation.

This initiative reflects the broader trend of leveraging automation and technological innovation to tackle contemporary challenges in logistics and transportation. As the industry witnesses a dramatic shift towards automation, partnerships like that of T2 and TOTO could serve as a model for future advancements in supply chain management, particularly for sensitive and fragile goods.

About the Companies

T2 Corporation

• - Headquarters: 2-2-3, Hibiyako International Building, Naka, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan.
• - CEO: Masatomo Kumabe.
• - Established: August 30, 2022.
• - Business Focus: Development of autonomous driving systems, logistics using self-driving trucks, and related services.
• - Website: T2 Official Site

TOTO Limited

• - Headquarters: 2-1-1 Nakajima, Kokura Kitaku, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan.
• - President: Nobuya Tamura.
• - Established: May 15, 1917.
• - Business Focus: Manufacturing and selling residential equipment such as toilets, baths, kitchens, and sinks.
• - Website: TOTO Official Site

This innovative partnership not only showcases the advancements in technology but also emphasizes the importance of adapting to changing industry needs. As we look towards a future where automated transportation becomes commonplace, T2 and TOTO's collaboration may indeed set the pace for others to follow.