#Japan #Tokyo #T2 #IRIS OHYAMA #Modal Combination

Iris Ohyama's Groundbreaking Modal Transportation Trials

In a significant move toward revolutionizing logistics, Iris Ohyama Inc., in collaboration with NLP Cooperative and T2, recently conducted a transport trial combining autonomous trucks and freight rail in July 2026. This innovative approach, dubbed 'Modal Combination,' aims to address the pressing issue of truck driver shortages while facilitating sustainable logistics. The trial took place over a distance of approximately 1,100 kilometers, linking Kyushu to the Kanto region.

The Modal Combination Initiative

The Modal Combination initiative proposes the integration of Level 2 autonomous trucks—developed by T2—with Japan Freight Railway Company’s (JR Freight) extensive national network. This initiative began in 2025, setting the stage for full-scale Level 4 autonomous truck operations projected to commence in 2027.

During this trial, the teams transported products from Iris Ohyama's factory in Tosu, Saga Prefecture, to the NLP Kawasaki Distribution Center in Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture. The logistics process utilized a collaborative container system jointly designed by T2 and JR Freight.

Logistics Process

The designated transport flow outlined the logistics roles of each party:

• - Iris Ohyama to Fukuoka Freight Terminal: Handled by Zenkokutsu Unyu.
• - Fukuoka Freight Terminal to Kyoto Freight Station: Transported through JR Freight’s extensive train services.
• - Kyoto Freight Station to NLP Kawasaki DC: Carried out by T2’s Level 2 autonomous trucks over a segment of approximately 360 km along the Shin-Meishin Expressway.

In this endeavor, various products, including Iris Ohyama’s popular carbonated water 'CRYSTAL SPARK,' were effectively transported without any cargo damage, demonstrating operational readiness and efficiency.

Outcomes of the Trial

The results of the trial yielded a seamless transfer of the shared containers from the freight train to the autonomous trucks, with no delays or issues concerning cargo stability. The entire operation was executed within a two-day timeframe, achieving planned objectives and test conditions.

Following this successful trial, Iris Ohyama, T2, and NLP are exploring pathways for regular operations next, aiming to extend this model to other cargo owners in the Kyushu area to facilitate transport to the Kanto region.

Future Directions

The partnering companies are committed to refining their collaboration with an eye toward Level 4 autonomous operations. They aim to streamline logistics further, potentially expanding the Modal Combination method to other businesses within the NLP cooperative framework. This focus reflects a comprehensive understanding of both operational capabilities and market needs, driving forward logistics innovations.

The data gathered through this trial not only supports Iris Ohyama's ambitions but also contributes key insights to the evolving landscape of logistics and transportation technologies in Japan.

For more information about this initiative, view the following reference articles and company details:

• - U51D Container Overview.
• - Referenced Press Release: News Release.

Company Profiles

• - Iris Ohyama Inc.

- Headquarters: Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
- CEO: Akihiro Ohyama
- Established: April 1971
- Website: irisohyama.co.jp

• - NLP Cooperative

- Headquarters: Yasu, Shiga, Japan
- Director: Yuji Tsuzaki
- Established: July 2024
- Website: nlp-coop.org

• - T2

- Headquarters: Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan
- CEO: Masatomo Kumabe
- Established: August 2022
- Website: t2.auto
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- Official Note: Note