T2 Achieves Successful Automated Toll Passage with Level 2 Truck in Japan

T2's Groundbreaking Automated Toll Passage in Japan

In a pioneering move for Japan's transportation industry, T2, a Tokyo-based company, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully conducting a demonstration where its Level 2 autonomous trucks passed through highway toll booths without human intervention. This accomplishment marks the first instance of an automated truck navigating tolls in Japan, contributing to the advancement of autonomous freight transport.

T2's demonstration took place at key locations on the highways, specifically utilizing its dedicated switching hubs called "Transgate." This innovative solution involves two facilities: "Transgate Ayase" located in Ayase City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and a newly established "Transgate Nishinomiya Kita" near Nishinomiya Kita Interchange in Hyogo Prefecture. These hubs are designed to facilitate seamless transitions between autonomous and manual driving, ensuring safe and efficient operations.

The company aims to begin commercial operations using Level 4 autonomous trucks by 2027. Following the demonstration, T2 has already initiated limited commercial operations with Level 2 trucks on select sections of the high-speed roadways between Kanto and Kansai since 2025. As of June 2026, they have expanded their customer base to 17 companies, including transportation firms and manufacturers keen on ensuring the transport quality and safety offered by autonomous trucking solutions.

Addressing Technical Challenges

The transition of vehicles through toll booths presents unique challenges, particularly considering that the truck's width is approximately 2.5 meters while most lanes are only 3 meters wide. This scenario demands sophisticated technology to accurately estimate the vehicle's position and control it amidst proximity obstacles such as curbs. By utilizing high-precision 3D point cloud data in conjunction with real-time data gathered from LiDAR sensors mounted on the trucks, T2 has enabled centimeter-level self-positioning and meticulous vehicle control.

To achieve this, T2 advanced and implemented technologies for precise recognition of electronic toll collection (ETC) bars, allowing the trucks to autonomously assess their ability to proceed through the toll booths. The entire process of passing through the tolls, therefore, was executed smoothly through this innovative technology.

Future Developments

Looking towards the future, T2 is accelerating its technical development as it sets its sights on implementing Level 4 autonomy. The goal is to establish a full autonomous driving network connecting the Transgates along with enabling automated navigation on the roads linking these transition hubs. The idea behind Transgate involves creating a seamless operation where trucks can be switched between autonomous and manual control without disrupting the flow of logistics on highways and local roads.

For instance, T2 aims to conduct further trials starting in May 2026, where they will test the automated passage of their trucks through toll booths located at the Tōmei Expressway in Kanagawa and the Chūgoku Expressway in Hyogo. Both tests will refine their processes and technology, paving the way for broader applications of their automated systems.

Moreover, the new facility "Transgate Nishinomiya Kita" is strategically situated near the Nishinomiya Kita Interchange. It allows for optimal traffic flow, accommodating up to eight trucks simultaneously, thereby enhancing the operational capabilities of T2's logistics services. Ensuring functionality and efficiency in this space is paramount for T2 as they continue to innovate and expand their services.

Company Overview

T2 was established on August 30, 2022, and focuses on developing autonomous driving systems, targeting a revolutionary approach to freight transport services through advanced technologies. The company's headquarters is located in the Hibiya International Building at 2-2-3 Uchikubo, Chiyoda Ku, Tokyo. Under the leadership of CEO Masatomo Kumabe, T2 is committed to refining the standards of services essential for autonomous transport. Their company resources and updates can be found on their official website and social media channels.

As the autonomous transport sector grows, T2's continuous innovations and successful implementations will play a critical role in shaping the future of logistics and transportation across Japan.