#Japan #Ayase #T2 #Autonomous Trucks #Ayase City

T2 to Establish Autonomous Truck Interchange Hub in Ayase City

In a groundbreaking initiative, T2 Co., Ltd. is set to launch its autonomous truck operations in Ayase City, Kanagawa Prefecture. The company aims to begin level 4 autonomous trucking services in 2027, and to prepare for this ambitious project, it will construct a unique interchange hub to transition between unmanned driving on highways and manual driving on local roads connected to customer points. This interchange site will be the first of its kind in Japan for logistics operators and is strategically located near the Tomei Expressway at the Ayase Smart Interchange.

The construction is expected to commence in November 2025, with completion projected for February 2026. The site spans approximately 2,000 square meters and will facilitate the necessary driver transitions for the automated trucks between different operating conditions.

Strategic Location and Design

The location in Ayase City was chosen due to its excellent access to the Tomei Expressway, making it ideal for the intended operations. Extensive discussions were held with local landowners and stakeholders before finalizing the site. The interchange hub will consist of two areas across the Tomei Expressway, each designed to support the unloading and loading of drivers onto the trucks.

According to T2's CEO, Masatomo Kumabe, this facility is critical for ensuring smooth logistics operations as they integrate advanced automated systems. The interchange will serve a dual purpose: enhancing operational efficiency in logistics and providing a practical venue to test and validate autonomous driving operations.

As part of the initiative, T2 will also reach out to businesses located in the nearby Ayase industrial complex to invite them to participate in demonstrations of the self-driving trucks. The Ayase City Industrial Promotion Department has expressed strong support, stating, "The establishment of this interchange hub is essential to address the serious logistics crisis we face, and through it, we aim to solidify the implementation of trunk transport via autonomous vehicles and promote local industrial revitalization."

Progressing Towards Commercialization

Before launching the level 4 autonomous trucking services, T2 plans to start commercial operations with level 2 autonomous trucks in July 2025. This phased approach will allow the company to refine its technology and logistics strategies, ensuring that by 2027, they are fully prepared to operate at level 4 autonomy on highways, while also seamlessly managing manual transitions with human drivers.

The implications of this project extend beyond operational advancements; it highlights the growing collaboration between private enterprises and local governments to tackle pressing societal issues, such as the logistics crisis exacerbated by driver shortages and the need for efficient goods transportation networks. T2's commitment to this cause, alongside the involvement of local authorities, indicates a robust model for future partnerships in the realm of autonomous mobility.

Future Outlook

As the completion date for the interchange hub approaches, the potential for T2's operations to contribute to efficient logistics practices is significant. The development indicates a shift towards increasing automation in freight transport, potentially setting a benchmark for similar initiatives nationwide. With continued support from Ayase City and stakeholders, T2 is poised to play a pivotal role in the future landscape of autonomous transportation in Japan. Stay tuned for more updates as the project unfolds.