Fukutsu and T2 launch autonomous truck relay transport tests in Japan

Fukutsu and T2 have launched a joint initiative to integrate autonomous trucks into relay transport operations between the Kanto, Kyushu, and Chugoku/Shikoku regions of Japan. The project aims to address the severe driver shortage caused by the ‘2024 problem’ in the logistics industry.

Starting August 26, the companies are testing a 510km route connecting Fukutsu’s Fujisawa branch in Kanagawa Prefecture and Kasai branch in Hyogo Prefecture. The test utilizes T2’s Level 2 autonomous driving technology over a 470km stretch of the Tomei and Chugoku Expressways. The operation includes stops at specialized ‘Transgate’ hubs in Ayase and Nishinomiya-kita to test procedures for switching between unmanned highway driving and manned local road driving.

A primary goal is to validate the operational feasibility of Level 4 autonomous driving. While current driver regulations limit single-driver operations to one-way trips between Kanto and Kansai, Level 4 technology could enable round-trip services within 24 hours, potentially doubling transport capacity. If successful, the companies plan to transition these tests into regular scheduled services.