independent.co.uk
Japan's Automated Highway for Cargo
Japan plans to build an automated cargo transport corridor to combat a truck driver shortage, aiming for initial tests by 2027 and full operation by the mid-2030s.
English
United Kingdom
TechnologyInfrastructureIndo PacificTransportationLogisticsAutomation
Ministry Of LandInfrastructureTransport And TourismJapan Trucking Association (Jta)Ryutsu Keizai University
Yuri EndoYuji Yano
- What is Japan's plan to address its truck driver shortage?
- Japan is tackling its truck driver shortage by planning an automated cargo transport corridor between Tokyo and Osaka. This "conveyor belt road" will use large, wheeled boxes moving along a dedicated highway lane.
- Are other countries exploring similar automated transport solutions?
- Similar automated transport systems are being considered in other countries like Switzerland and the UK, highlighting a global trend in addressing logistics challenges with technological solutions.
- What are the future prospects and potential expansion of this system?
- While the initial focus is on the Tokyo-Osaka route, the system's success could lead to expansion to other areas. Last-mile delivery might still rely on human drivers initially, but driverless technology could eventually be integrated.
- What is the timeline for the implementation of the automated cargo transport system?
- The project aims to start test runs in 2027 or 2028, with full operations expected by the mid-2030s. The system is designed to be automated and unmanned, running 24/7.
- What are the benefits of this automated system beyond addressing the driver shortage?
- Besides alleviating the driver shortage, the automated system is also projected to reduce carbon emissions and improve road safety by lessening driver fatigue and potential accidents.