#Japan #Tokyo #TIER IV #Robotaxi

TIER IV Launches Robotaxi Pilot Tests in Tokyo

TIER IV, a frontrunner in the autonomous driving sphere and the creator of the world’s first open-source software, has achieved a major milestone by completing pilot trials of a robotaxi service in Tokyo. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at commercializing autonomous vehicle technology. The successful tests took place in two prominent districts: Odaiba in November and Nishi-Shinjuku in December 2024.

These trials represent a crucial leap towards embedding robotaxi services into Japan's intricate transport system. This comes after TIER IV was chosen in August 2024 for a project spearheaded by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, which focuses on advancing digital transformation within the mobility sector.

Overview of the Pilot Tests

In essence, the tests were designed to demonstrate how robotaxis can be integrated by modifying and enhancing existing operational design domains (ODDs) for new traffic environments. Technical validations were also carried out to lay the groundwork for broader deployment. The trials utilized JPN TAXI vehicles that were outfitted with TIER IV's advanced autonomous driving technology. They navigated roughly 500 intricate scenarios, including handling intersections and maneuvering around parked vehicles. A safety-first protocol allowed operators to take manual control when situations exceeded predetermined ODDs.

The outcomes of the pilot tests not only verified the adaptability of ODDs in environments with heavy traffic but also highlighted key technical challenges that will need to be addressed to ensure safe and effective autonomous transportation.

In Odaiba, passengers engaged with the robotaxi by using voice commands to select their destination, allowing the vehicle to navigate its route around the Tokyo Teleport Station. On average, each ride covered approximately 3 kilometers, contributing to a total distance of about 354 kilometers. Post-ride surveys were conducted to gather passenger feedback, aiming to improve service quality.

The scenario in Nishi-Shinjuku presented unique challenges due to high pedestrian and vehicular traffic density. Here, users selected from seven destination options via a ride-hailing app, while the vehicle followed designated paths. TIER IV collaborated with local stakeholders, including the Shinjuku Subcenter Area Environmental Improvement Committee, to explore methods for scaling up robotaxi operations effectively. This particular phase logged around 622 kilometers of driving distance, with rides averaging about 3 kilometers each.

Next Steps

Looking ahead, TIER IV plans to incorporate insights gained from these tests into its reference design for robotaxis. This design will be shared with key stakeholders within the automotive industry, aiming to reduce the barriers for vehicle manufacturers to develop suitable robotaxi models. By 2027, TIER IV envisions introducing a service model that allows for the rollout of robotaxi operations within three months in targeted areas, leveraging their established reference design. This innovation could play a significant role in the broader deployment of robotaxi services nationwide.

About TIER IV

TIER IV stands at the cutting-edge of deep tech innovation with its pioneering Autoware, the first open-source software platform for autonomous driving. By utilizing Autoware, TIER IV develops scalable solutions and comprehensive platforms spanning software development, vehicle manufacturing, and operational services. Additionally, TIER IV is a founding member of the Autoware Foundation, dedicated to morphing the future of smart transportation through open-source technologies, empowering individuals and organizations to thrive in the ever-evolving realm of autonomous vehicles.

Autoware is a registered trademark of the Autoware Foundation.