Innovative Self-Driving Expressway Lane: A Game-Changer In The Truck Driver Shortage

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To address the shortage of truck drivers, the government has formulated a plan to establish a designated lane for self-driving vehicles on the Shin-Tomei Expressway in Shizuoka Prefecture by 2024. Trials will be conducted before implementing distribution services using autonomous trucks, which are expected to commence no earlier than 2026.

The self-driving vehicles will operate during the nighttime on the approximately 120-kilometer (75 Mile) stretch between the Surugawan-Numazu service area and the Hamamatsu service area. This section of the Shin-Tomei Expressway consists of three lanes in each direction. In March, the government finalized important aspects such as whether the lane will be exclusively dedicated to automated driving and which types of vehicles will be permitted.

Due to the shortage of drivers in the transportation industry, which is predicted to worsen in 2024 with the implementation of overtime regulations and penalties, Mitsubishi Estate Co. plans to collaborate with T2 Inc., a developer of self-driving systems, to initiate an unmanned transportation service as early as 2026. Mitsubishi Estate will construct "next-generation core distribution facilities" connected directly to expressway interchanges in the Kanto, Chukyo, and Kansai regions to facilitate the operation of self-driving trucks.

The Kansai facility is scheduled for completion in 2026 near the Uji-Tawara Interchange on the Shin-Meishin Expressway in Joyo, Kyoto Prefecture. T2 Inc., established in August as a joint venture between trading house Mitsui & Co. and an artificial intelligence startup, plans to have 50 10-ton trucks capable of automated driving ready before the service commences, with a target of having 2,000 trucks available by 2031.

Based in Ichikawa, Chiba Prefecture, T2 aims to primarily offer transportation services along the Shin-Tomei and Shin-Meishin expressways, utilizing Mitsubishi Estate's distribution facilities. Notably, T2 has been conducting demonstration experiments involving manned self-driving trucks on the Higashi-Kanto Expressway.

The Japanese government's plan to establish a designated lane for self-driving vehicles on the Shin-Tomei Expressway in Shizuoka Prefecture by 2024 is a significant step towards addressing the shortage of truck drivers. This innovative solution shows their commitment to adopting autonomous technology in the transportation industry, aiming to improve efficiency and meet the increasing demand for transportation services. The collaboration between Mitsubishi Estate Co. and T2 Inc. further supports this initiative, as they work together to create next-generation core distribution facilities connected to expressway interchanges.

While this plan seems promising, it is important to consider the underlying issues causing the shortage of drivers. Factors such as the declining population and low pay in the transportation industry need to be addressed alongside the implementation of autonomous technology. Focusing on improving working conditions, raising wages, and implementing measures to attract more people to the profession are crucial steps in ensuring a sustainable and balanced approach to the future of transportation. By considering these factors, Japan can pave the way for a more automated and socially responsible industry.

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