#Japan #NARUTO #Self-Driving #A2Z

A2Z's Innovative Self-Driving Technology Takes to the Streets of Japan

The Autonomous A2Z Co., Ltd., in collaboration with Kanematsu Corporation, has successfully marked a significant milestone by introducing its self-driving system in Japan. Starting from February 6, 2026, this pioneering technology will be utilized in a pilot program for autonomous taxis operating in the city of Naruto, Tokushima Prefecture. This initiative embodies a crucial step in the partnership established in August 2025, aiming to globally share cutting-edge self-driving technologies.

The project is spearheaded by major players including NEC Corporation, DENNO KOTSU Co., Ltd., and the Tokushima Prefectural Government. Over the course of approximately two months, the program will see self-driving taxis operating on designated routes within Naruto, showcasing the seamless integration of A2Z’s autonomous technology with existing transport systems. Kanematsu and A2Z are spearheading the preparation and testing of both the technology and the vehicles involved in this ambitious program.

At the heart of this project lies a sophisticated integrated system developed through a triumphant collaboration between NEC’s self-driving service platform, DENNO KOTSU’s dispatch system “DS,” and A2Z’s autonomous control technology. This innovative approach allows for the incorporation of self-driving vehicles into traditional taxi operations without necessitating significant alterations. Although the trial version is classified as “Level 2” autonomous driving—where a driver is present and can intervene when necessary—there is a future vision that encompasses “Level 4” fully autonomous taxis under specific conditions.

Kanematsu and A2Z are committed to using these trials as a model to assess feasible costs and operational demands for local taxi operators, ultimately aiding in the development of a sustainable business model. Aiming to resolve pressing regional challenges including a declining driver workforce and transportation accessibility for aging communities, this initiative aspires to achieve safe and sustainable implementation of next-generation mobility solutions.

Specifications of the Self-Driving Vehicles

The self-driving taxis employed for this trial will utilize the Hyundai IONIQ5, equipped with A2Z’s advanced autonomous system. The goal of A2Z is to establish a dedicated self-driving platform for the global market based on their successful trials, which have accumulated over 900,000 km across 14 of 17 designated autonomous driving zones in South Korea as of December 2025. Furthermore, A2Z has marked its global presence by securing a commendable ranking as the 7th in the global autonomous driving technology rankings by Guidehouse, highlighting its certifications and accomplishments in regions such as Singapore and the UAE.

Details of the Trial Operation

• - Trial Duration: February 6, 2026, to March 31, 2026
• - Fare: Free
• - Operator: Kintoki Taxi, supported by Travel Support Co., Ltd.
• - Service Area: Western part of Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture
• - Pickup and Drop-off Points: 27 designated locations
• - Operation Type: Semi-demand-based service
• - Operating Hours: 8 AM to 7 PM (with dispatch cut-off at 6:45 PM)

About A2Z

• - Company Name: Autonomous A2Z Co., Ltd.
• - Founded: July 18, 2018
• - CEO: Ji-Hyeong Han
• - Location: Silseup-dong, 50, Gamasil-gil, Hayang-eup, Gyeongsan-si
• - Business Focus: Research, development, and sales of autonomous driving technology and vehicles
• - Website: A2Z Official Website

For more information, contact the Public Relations Office of Kanematsu Corporation at +81-3-6747-5000 or visit Kanematsu Inquiry Page.