#Japan #Tama City #Tama #A-Drive #Aisan Technology

Autonomous Bus Initiative in Tama City

Tama City, located in Tokyo, is stepping into the future of transportation with the introduction of large autonomous buses. A-Drive Corporation and Aisan Technology Corporation are key players in this ambitious project, aimed at tackling local public transportation issues, such as the shortage of bus drivers.

This initiative is part of the local government's efforts to implement the "New Local Economy and Living Environment Creation Subsidy (2nd Generation)", designed to support unique projects led by local municipalities that address regional challenges through innovative solutions. Under the guidance of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Tama City is spearheading this initiative, while Keio Electric Railway Bus Company is responsible for the actual bus operations.

Roles of A-Drive and Aisan Technology

In this project, A-Drive is contributing their cutting-edge autonomous driving system and the vehicles themselves. Meanwhile, Aisan Technology will provide high-precision 3D map data and on-site technical support to ensure the smooth operation of these autonomous vehicles.

Both companies aim to leverage their expertise in autonomous driving technology and safety operations to address regional challenges faced by Tama City and to work towards a sustainable mobility service.

The Autonomous Bus Operation Overview

The autonomous bus project will be executed as follows:

• - Implemented by: Tama City
• - Operating Company: Keio Electric Railway Bus Co., Ltd.
• - System and Vehicle Provider: A-Drive Corporation
• - Autonomous Driving Level: Level 2 (Driver-on-board)
• - Operating Area: Tsuru-Tsubaki Area of Tama New Town
• - Route: Tsuru-Tsubaki Loop (Route No. 61)
• - Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes
• - Operating Frequency: 4 trips per day
• - Service Period: January 10 - February 1 (Excluding weekends and holidays)
• - Passenger Capacity: 25 passengers per trip (Reservation required)
• - Vehicle Model: ERGA (by Isuzu Motors) with a maximum speed of 40 km/h when in autonomous mode

Experience Autonomous Travel

The buses will operate autonomously under the supervision of a human driver, allowing members of the public to experience real autonomous travel on live bus routes. This operation will help identify and address various challenges as planning progresses towards the wider adoption of autonomous buses in the future.

How to Reserve

Interested passengers can make reservations through the dedicated website, found via the TAMa-GO LINE.

Contact Information

For further details regarding this press release, please reach out to:
A-Drive Corporation
Social Implementation Promotion Department
E-Mail: [email protected]
Aisan Technology Corporation
Mobility DX Business Group
E-Mail: [email protected]

As Tama City embarks on this transformative journey, the collaboration between A-Drive and Aisan Technology is set to set a precedent for future autonomous transportation projects across Japan.