TuSimple, a renowned global autonomous driving technology company, has taken a significant step towards revolutionizing Japan’s freight industry. In a recent press release, TuSimple announced the commencement of Level 4 autonomous test runs on Japan’s crucial freight corridor, connecting Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka. This development comes as a solution to Japan’s driver shortage and aging population crisis, positioning TuSimple as a leader in the advancement of self-driving technology for long-haul transportation.
TuSimple’s Breakthrough in Japan
TuSimple Japan, a subsidiary of TuSimple Holdings, has successfully completed a series of safety validation and testing work on its autonomous driving system in collaboration with a local Japanese OEM’s truck. Starting January 2023, TuSimple Japan has initiated regular testing on the Tomei Expressway, one of Japan’s vital transportation routes.
Addressing the Driver Shortage Challenge
Japan’s freight industry faces a pressing challenge due to the shortage of drivers and an aging population. According to Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, over 45% of the drivers in the country’s transportation industry are aged 50 or older. In response, the Japanese government plans to launch a self-driving lane on sections of the New Tomei Expressway by 2024 and allow commercial operation of SAE Level 4 fully autonomous trucks by 2026.
Cheng Lu, President and CEO at TuSimple, expressed the company’s dedication to solving Japan’s logistics industry’s driver shortage issue. He stated, “Self-driving technology is a promising solution to the driver shortage issue that Japan’s logistics industry faces.” TuSimple aims to actively build partnerships with local companies and develop technology that meets the demands of Japanese customers. Their mission is to provide reliable, safe, and efficient autonomous truck solutions for the long-haul transportation industry.
TuSimple’s Global Impact
As a pioneer in the field, TuSimple is focused on developing a commercial-ready, fully autonomous (SAE Level 4) driving solution for long-haul heavy-duty trucks. Their leading AI technology aims to transform the $4 trillion global truck freight industry. With over 10 million cumulative miles recorded through testing, research, and freight delivery, TuSimple has demonstrated its commitment to achieving this goal.
In December 2021, TuSimple made history by executing the world’s first fully autonomous semi-truck run on public roads in Arizona, USA, without any human intervention. This achievement solidified TuSimple’s position as a frontrunner in autonomous trucking technology.
Conclusion
TuSimple’s recent announcement regarding the commencement of Level 4 autonomous test runs on Japan’s major freight corridor marks a significant milestone in the advancement of self-driving technology. By addressing Japan’s driver shortage and aging population challenges, TuSimple aims to provide the most reliable, safe, and efficient autonomous truck solutions for the long-haul transportation industry. With their cutting-edge AI technology and remarkable global achievements, TuSimple is set to transform the $4 trillion global truck freight industry. For more information about TuSimple and their revolutionary autonomous driving solutions, visit their website at www.tusimple.com.
