Nishinomiya City to test autonomous EV buses in Koshien

Nishinomiya City and Hanshin Electric Railway will launch a demonstration experiment for autonomous electric vehicle (EV) buses in the Koshien area starting August 31, 2026. The project will utilize Level 2 autonomous driving technology, where both acceleration, braking, and steering are partially automated.

The experiment includes two specific routes: a West Route toward Hamakoshien and an East Route toward the UR housing complex. For the first time, the buses will enter the area in front of Hanshin Koshien Station. The demonstration is scheduled to run for approximately 100 days until January 30, 2027, with general passenger boarding expected to begin in mid-November.