Innovative AI On-Demand Bus 'MyRide Noruru' Earns JCOMM Project Award

Takahagi's 'MyRide Noruru' Receives JCOMM Project Award

Takahagi City, under Mayor Katsuki Oobe, in partnership with Ibaraki Kotsu Inc. and Michinori Holdings, has recently been honored with the prestigious JCOMM Project Award for the 'MyRide Noruru' service. This award, presented by the JCOMM Executive Committee, recognizes projects that significantly contribute to enhancing urban mobility and addressing transportation-related challenges.

What is 'MyRide Noruru'?

'MyRide Noruru' is an innovative on-demand bus service that leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) to optimize routes and schedules based on user requests. Since its initial pilot program launched in 2021, the service transitioned to full operation in October 2022. As of October 2024, plans are in place to expand both the operating hours and coverage area.

This AI-powered transportation solution has seen user numbers soar by 1.24 times compared to before its launch, establishing itself as a crucial mobility option within the community. The demand-responsive nature of 'Noruru' allows it to adapt to specific transportation needs, making it a pioneering model for public transit in the region.

About the JCOMM Project Award

The JCOMM Project Award is conferred by the Japan Society of Civil Engineers’ JCOMM Executive Committee. This accolade recognizes projects that possess originality and demonstrate exceptional completion, applicability, and commitment to addressing the quality of urban mobility, environmental concerns, traffic congestion, and public health. Projects that contribute substantially to mitigating these issues receive this prestigious recognition.

Committee Evaluation

The JCOMM Executive Committee lauded 'MyRide Noruru' for its strategic deployment of AI on-demand transportation in areas and times of high demand. The service's efficiency has surpassed traditional bus lines due to its high occupancy rates. Furthermore, it encourages residents to shift from personal vehicles to public transportation, thereby improving opportunities for community engagement and reducing local transportation issues.

In response to the award, Takahagi City, Ibaraki Kotsu, and Michinori Holdings share a commitment to refining the 'Noruru' service, which has evolved through collaboration with the citizenry, commercial facilities, schools, and hospitals since its pilot phase began. They plan to continue providing a safe, user-friendly, and convenient public transportation option, fostering further growth and development in the future.

The integration of AI technologies in public transportation is set to redefine mobility in Takahagi and beyond, paving the way for smarter, more responsive transit solutions. As 'MyRide Noruru' embarks on this exciting journey, stakeholders are encouraged to support its ongoing development and embrace the future of public transit in the region.

This prestigious recognition not only validates the hard work and dedication of all involved but also shines a light on the potential for future advancements in smart urban mobility. With continuous improvements and enhancements, 'MyRide Noruru' is poised to become a model for contemporary public transportation systems, inspiring similar initiatives across Japan and setting benchmarks for effective urban mobility practices.