#Japan #Sendai #Pacific Consultants #Autonomous Bus

EV Bus Trials in Sendai

Pacific Consultants Co., Ltd., based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, is embarking on a significant project in collaboration with local government and Tohoku University to address societal challenges through advanced autonomous transportation services. This initiative is part of the Aoba Mountain Green Circulation Project, aimed at improving mobility within the Aoba Mountain area.

The project will feature two main locations: Aoba Mountain, where trials will utilize Level 2 autonomous EV buses, and Nishikigaoka, which will operate manual services. The trials represent a crucial step towards future implementation of Level 4 autonomous systems in Sendai.

Overview of the EV Bus Trial

The autonomous bus trial at Aoba Mountain is scheduled to take place over six days, from November 9 to November 16, 2023, with operating hours from 10 AM to 4:10 PM. The route will cover a distance of approximately 5.1 kilometers, starting from the International Center Station, passing through various points of interest including the Sendai Castle Ruins and Tohoku University’s Aoba Campus, and returning to the starting point.

Conversely, the manual bus operation at Nishikigaoka will occur over two days, on October 18 and 19, 2023, from 10 AM to 3:30 PM. This route will operate between the Nishikigaoka Community Center and the Aiko Station, covering a one-way distance of about 5.5 kilometers.

In both cases, the rides will be offered for free to the public, allowing everyone to experience cutting-edge autonomous technology firsthand. However, interested riders should note that if capacity is reached, admission may be restricted.

Future Prospects

In addition to the practical trials in Aoba Mountain and Nishikigaoka, Pacific Consultants aims to conduct comprehensive testing regarding technology, management, and public acceptance aspects. The results will be crucial for preparing for a broader rollout of Level 4 autonomous systems in the future.

The trials also include a prior survey conducted in Nishikigaoka, where customer demand and needs will be assessed during the manual operation phase. These insights will help shape future autonomous bus services within the region.

However, it's essential to acknowledge that the trial operations may be subject to cancellation based on weather and road conditions. Participants are encouraged to check the city's website for real-time updates regarding trial statuses.

For more in-depth information, Pacific Consultants hosts a dedicated insight page discussing the current challenges and opportunities associated with autonomous bus services. They are committed to contributing to the social implementation of Level 4 autonomous systems, engaging in technology development, policy-making, planning, and operational support across various regions.

About Pacific Consultants Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1951, Pacific Consultants has established itself as a leading construction consulting firm, significantly influencing urban, architectural, transportation, and social infrastructure development both domestically and internationally. The company's vision of 'Producing the Future' emphasizes its dedication to creating sustainable societies where everyone can live safely and comfortably. Their efforts continue to strive towards addressing mobility challenges and fostering innovation in public transportation.

For more details, visit their official website at Pacific Consultants.