#Japan #Ride-sharing #Public Tech #Ukemura #Ukemura, Kagoshima

Public Technologies to Initiate Ride-Sharing Pilot

Public Technologies, a Tokyo-based GovTech startup led by CEO Yamato Aoki, is collaborating with Ukemura in Kagoshima Prefecture to roll out a public ride-sharing service starting October 1, 2025. This initiative is part of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's project aimed at addressing transportation gaps in rural areas.

Background and Challenges

Ukemura has previously relied on bus and slow mobility services for local transportation. However, due to a declining population and increasing aging rates across Amami Oshima, certain bus routes have been reorganized or even discontinued. This has resulted in periods where no public transportation is available in Ukemura. Consequently, meeting the varied and flexible mobility needs of residents has proven challenging, highlighting a significant need for improved convenience.

In response to these issues, Public Technologies has actively listened to the community's concerns and has worked hand-in-hand with local stakeholders to explore the best transportation service solutions. Their commitment to community engagement, rapid adaptability, and sustainable system design has been highly praised, leading to the decision to implement the 'PubTech AI-Ride' system. This innovation aspires to create a sustainable transportation service rooted in the local community.

Project Details

The ride-sharing pilot is scheduled to start in October 2025 and will cover the entire village. Ensuring transportation for the elderly and others who have mobility difficulties is a core theme, emphasizing the importance of reliable means to access daily life necessities and leisure opportunities. The project aims to continuously collect and analyze resident feedback to swiftly adapt operational policies like fare structures and schedules accordingly.

To promote ease of access, the pilot will introduce an affordable fare system that allows residents from various age groups to utilize the service comfortably. Additionally, direct routes to Amami City's district hub will be offered once or twice a week, providing expanded options for traveling outside the village.

What is 'PubTech AI-Ride'?

The 'PubTech AI-Ride' is an AI-based on-demand vehicle allocation feature included in the 'PubTech' super app designed for local governments. This system calculates the optimal vehicle, route, and ride-sharing options based on user reservations, enabling door-to-door operations and irregular route reservations within a unified platform. Reservations can be made via both the app and call center, complemented by management tools for operators and driver applications, thereby enhancing transport management efficiency and reducing staff burdens.

Operation Overview

• - Pilot Duration: October 1, 2025, to February 27, 2026
• - Operating Days: Monday to Saturday (excluding holidays and New Year)
• - Fare Structure: From 200 yen (Free for residents over 70 and high school students)
• - Service Area: Entire village + two bus stops outside the village
• - Eligibility: Open to all registered users, including residents, returning individuals, and tourists
• - Booking: Reservations must be made in advance via phone or the app

Future Prospects

Public Technologies embraces the vision 'Japanese Dynamism — Bringing Japan to Life from the Local Level to the World.' They aim to unlock the potential of local communities while listening to resident feedback and enhancing public transport. The insights gathered from this pilot will also contribute towards addressing transportation challenges across Japan's rural areas.

By supporting and expanding public transport systems through digital technology, Public Technologies is committed to creating environments where all individuals can move with confidence and ease. For those interested in this initiative, they can reach out via email at [email protected] or visit Public Technologies for more information.

About Public Technologies

Founded in May 2020, Public Technologies aims to redefine public sector efficiency through its innovative GovTech solutions. They specialize in integrating public ride-sharing services and local currency within a super app designed for local governments, alongside developing AI tools to streamline administrative processes.

With the slogan 'POWER THE COUNTRY,' they remain steadfast in their mission to invigorate Japan's future and foster local-to-global connections.