#Seven-Eleven #T2 #Autonomous Truck

Innovative Logistics Initiative

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Seven-Eleven Japan, Mitsui & Co. Distribution Group (MRG), and T2 have initiated a proof of concept using autonomous trucks for goods transportation across Japan. This initiative marks the first in the convenience store and supermarket sectors, focusing on the route between Kanto and Kansai regions.

The project aims to leverage biofuel derived from used cooking oil collected from local communities, thereby advancing Seven-Eleven’s commitment to a circular economy. The use of this biofuel in autonomous trucks is intended to address the pressing issues of labor shortages while considering environmental sustainability.

Addressing Driver Shortages

With the ongoing workforce shortage in the logistics sector, ensuring stable long-distance transportation of products is a significant challenge. The three companies have been exploring the incorporation of Level 4 autonomous trucks into their logistics, particularly for the transport of Seven-Eleven’s private brand products, Seven Premium, by fiscal year 2027. Initially, they will use a Level 2 autonomous truck that commenced commercial operations earlier this year, transporting goods from MRG’s logistics base in Saitama to Hyogo.

Project Timeline

• - Duration: Three trials from December 1, 2025, to April 2026.
• - Route: Highways linking MRG Saitama’s second center in Saitama’s Niiza City to MRG Kansai’s center in Hyogo’s Amagasaki City, utilizing a Level 2 autonomous driving segment on the Tohoku Expressway and Meishin Expressway.

Roles of Each Partner

• - Seven-Eleven: Defines proof of concept themes and provides product samples.
• - MRG: Offers logistics centers, manages loading and unloading processes, schedules operations, and oversees logistics.
• - T2: Supplies the autonomous trucks, collects and analyzes driving data, and conducts technical verification.

Cargo Specifications

The trials will primarily transport ambient products from the Seven Premium line, including items like umbrellas, cup miso soup, kitchen paper, and soft pack tissues.

Objectives of the Trial

The primary validation aims to assess:

• - The feasibility of long-distance travel using autonomous trucks.
• - Delivery times when autonomous vehicles are involved.
• - The effectiveness of logistics operations integrating autonomous systems.

Additionally, this project will expand SEJ's circular economy initiative by incorporating B5 diesel (a mixture of biofuel and regular diesel) into delivery vehicles. A fueling stop for B5 will be established at the facilities where T2 is developing