Tokyo tests self-driving buses

On October 2nd, Japan began testing self-driving buses in the Tokyo metropolitan area.

Tokyo, Japan, is testing self-driving buses to address the shortage of bus drivers. (Illustrative image: EPA)

The pilot program is taking place as the country promotes driverless services and automated public transport solutions to address the shortage of bus drivers.

This bus operates along the route connecting the bustling Shinjuku station with two important buildings of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

The vehicle can accommodate up to 18 passengers per trip, with a top speed of up to 50 km/h. Passengers need to book in advance through the online system.

This trial of the self-driving buses will last until October 13th. The self-driving buses operate 12 trips per week, from 10 am to 4 pm daily. The operating schedule is adjusted to be reduced on weekends and holidays.

According to local media, Tokyo officials said the trial operation of the self-driving bus aims to assess the performance of autonomous buses in areas with relatively high traffic density, as well as evaluate the infrastructure standards for dedicated lanes for self-driving vehicles.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/nhat-ban-thu-do-tokyo-thu-nghiem-xe-buyt-tu-lai-244663.html