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Japan expands autonomous and EV bus pilot programs
Several regions in Japan are launching pilot programs for electric and autonomous buses to address transportation challenges such as aging populations and regional mobility.
In Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture, a Level 4 autonomous bus trial will run from November 9 to 13, 2026. The service uses a TIER IV Minibus 2.0 to travel a 1.2km route between Shiojiri Station and the City Hall. The trial is free and requires reservations.
In Mitoyo, Kagawa Prefecture, Mitoyo City and NTT West Japan will conduct an EV autonomous bus demonstration from November 1 to December 25, 2026. Using a Macnica Navya EVO, the Level 2 service will connect JR Takuma Station and other local hubs. The project aims to test road-to-vehicle communication to support future Level 4 implementation.
In Nanao, Ishikawa Prefecture, the Wakura Onsen Creative Reconstruction Town Development Promotion Council is launching an EV bus demonstration from October 24 to November 23, 2026. Supported by the Japan Tourism Agency, the project uses Toyota’s e-Palette to improve mobility within the hot spring district. The service will operate 7 to 9 free trips daily.
Entities
Mitoyo City · NTT West Japan · Shiojiri City · Toyota Motor Corporation · Wakura Onsen
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Shiojiri trial uses a TIER IV Minibus 2.0 vehicle. matsumoto.goguynet.jp
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Wakura Onsen demonstration uses Toyota e-Palette vehicles. www.hokkoku.co.jp
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Mitoyo City and NTT West Japan will run an EV autonomous bus demonstration from November 1 to December 25, 2026. pugkko.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Shiojiri City will hold a free Level 4 autonomous bus trial from November 9 to 13, 2026. matsumoto.goguynet.jp
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Mitoyo demonstration uses a Macnica Navya EVO vehicle at Level 2 autonomy. pugkko.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Wakura Onsen will conduct an EV bus demonstration from October 24 to November 23, 2026. www.hokkoku.co.jp