#International Kogyo #Saitama City #Autonomous Bus

Saitama City Advances Autonomous Transportation with a New Pilot Project

In an exciting development for public transportation in Japan, International Kogyo Corporation, headquartered in Chuo-ku, Tokyo, has announced its participation in the "Saitama City Level 4 Mobility and Local Committee." This partnership aligns with the city’s groundbreaking initiative to implement autonomous bus services, specifically through the "Reiwa 7 Fiscal Year Autonomous Bus Demonstration Project."

This innovative demonstration comes under the auspices of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, having secured funding through the Public Transport Sustainability Enhancement Program. The pilot will target the highly trafficked Kitasaitama Route 03, spanning from the west exit of Kitakuawa Station to Saitama University, covering approximately 4 kilometers. During this project, an operations trial of Level 2 autonomous buses will be conducted. The objective is to explore various challenges related to operational management, technological aspects, and social acceptance as the city works towards the implementation of Level 4 autonomous driving.

International Kogyo will leverage its extensive experience in public transportation by assigning skilled drivers who are familiar with the route to support a smooth transition into autonomous operations. This initiative is designed to contribute significantly to the establishment of a sustainable public transport network in the region while also addressing broader societal challenges.

Overview of the Demonstration Project

Project Timeline

• - Start of preparation runs: Scheduled for late September 2025, with test rides expected to begin in late October.

Operational Route

• - Route: Kitasaitama Route 03 (from the west exit of Kitakuawa Station to Saitama University, one way approximately 4 kilometers).
• - Pick-up/drop-off locations: Kitakuawa Station (pick-up/drop-off), Minami-Yono Station North Entrance (drop-off only), and Saitama University (pick-up/drop-off).

Evaluation Objectives

The pilot will examine critical issues regarding the shift to Level 4 autonomous driving in large buses, investigating management, technology, and societal acceptance aspects. However, the current year’s operational tests will proceed under Level 2 automation, where human drivers are ready to take control if necessary.

Implementation Structure

1. Overall Coordination, Issue Identification, and Effect Measurement: Managed by Saitama City (contracted to Oriental Consultants).
2. Vehicle Acquisition and Risk Assessment: Handled by A-Drive Co., Ltd.
3. Creation of High-Precision 3D Maps and Operational Support: Provided by Aisan Technology Co., Ltd.
4. Operating Entities: Seibu Bus Co., Ltd. and International Kogyo Corporation.

Vehicle Specifications

Operational Vehicle

• - Model: Isuzu Motors' large bus