theguardian.com
Japan's Automated Cargo Road
Japan plans a high-speed automated cargo transport system to combat delivery service demands and labor shortages.
English
United Kingdom
TechnologyLabour MarketInfrastructureIndo PacificTransportationLogisticsAutomation
Japanese Transport MinistryYomiuri Shimbun
Yuri Endo
- How will the automated cargo transport system function?
- The "auto flow-road" will utilize a 24-hour automated and unmanned transportation system, moving containers along a dedicated space within the motorway. Automated forklifts will load items into the containers, linking airports, railways, and ports.
- What is the main purpose of Japan's planned "conveyor belt road"?
- Japan is building an automated cargo transport corridor to connect Tokyo and Osaka, aiming to alleviate the strain on delivery services and address the labor shortage in the logistics sector.
- What are the future prospects and potential limitations of the project?
- The project, if successful, could be expanded to other parts of Japan, although door-to-door deliveries will likely remain human-operated until the advent of fully driverless vehicles.
- What is the timeline for the project's implementation and estimated cost?
- Test runs are scheduled to begin in 2027 or early 2028, with full operation expected by the mid-2030s. The project's estimated cost is up to \u00a53.7tn, primarily due to the extensive tunnel construction required.
- How will the project impact the trucking industry and address labor shortages?
- The ministry estimates the logistics motorways could replace the work of 25,000 truck drivers daily. This addresses the "2024 problem", a looming driver shortage caused by new overtime restrictions.