Tokyo to trial self-driving buses due to driver shortage

In an effort to address the persistent scarcity of bus drivers, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government will start testing self-driving buses in three different parts of the city.

The trials will take place at Ogikubo Station in Suginami Ward, Tama Center Station in Tama City and Hakonegasaki Station in Mizuho Town in different periods ranging between November 2024 and February 2025.

Each location will use electric vehicles (EVs) specifically tailored to its needs. Ogikubo will see a small, low-speed EV with a seating capacity of seven, while Tama Center and Hakonegasaki stations will utilize compact electric buses, each seating 13.

The pilot will still require operators to manually control steering and braking when necessary.

The government will conduct passenger surveys during the trial to gauge public reaction and gather insights for future improvements.

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