In the bustling streets of Yokohama, Japan, a distinct vehicle is making its way through traffic. This van, fitted with state-of-the-art technology, maneuvers without a human driver behind the wheel, utilizing Nissan Motor Corp.’s innovative autonomous system. Equipped with 14 cameras, nine radars, and six LiDar sensors, the van highlights Japan’s drive to close the gap with industry leaders like Waymo from the United States.
Despite being home to some of the world’s leading car manufacturers, Japan has not matched the autonomous driving advancements seen in the U.S. and China. However, momentum is gradually building. Waymo plans to enter the Japanese market this year, in collaboration with Nihon Kotsu, a prominent cab company. They will initially operate in Tokyo with human-assisted drivers in their electric Jaguar I-PACE SUVs.
During a recent public demonstration by Nissan, the streets were alive with cars and pedestrians. The autonomous van maintained a maximum speed limit of 40 kph (25 mph), navigating its predetermined path using a smartphone app. According to Takeshi Kimura, an engineer at Nissan’s Mobility and AI Laboratory, automakers have a unique advantage in integrating self-driving technologies due to their comprehensive understanding of a car’s mechanics.
Although still classified at Level Two autonomy, where human oversight is necessary, Nissan’s technology is being tested on the Serena minivan. A person remotely monitors the system from Nissan’s headquarters and can intervene if necessary. Additionally, a passenger sits ready in the front seat for emergencies. However, their intervention is typically not required unless a problem arises.
Nissan envisages deploying 20 autonomous vehicles in the Yokohama area over the coming years, aiming for Level Four autonomy—complete independence from human backup—by 2029 or 2030. Given Japan’s demographic challenges, including an aging population and a decreasing number of drivers, autonomous vehicles offer a promising solution.
Several other companies in Japan, including startups like Tier IV, are also progressing in this field by promoting open-source collaboration. Recently, Japan approved Level Four autonomous vehicles in a rural setting in Fukui Prefecture. These vehicles, resembling golf carts, also include a bus operating near Tokyo’s Haneda airport at a moderate speed.
In another initiative, Toyota Motor Corp. is developing an experimental “city” near Mount Fuji to test various cutting-edge technologies, including self-driving cars. Although progress has been gradual, the aim is clear: to ensure the technology’s safety and reliability.
Professor Takeo Igarashi from the University of Tokyo highlights the societal challenges, noting that accidents with driverless vehicles often cause greater concern than those with human drivers. In Japan, the expectation for perfection in services, including autonomous driving, is notably high. A flawless execution is mandatory, given the Japanese customers’ tolerance for errors is extremely low.
Electronics and computer engineering expert, Phil Koopman from Carnegie Mellon University, emphasizes that while the industry is in its initial stages, challenges like “edge cases”—uncommon but perilous scenarios—are areas that require extensive practical data and time to perfect. Each city will demand custom engineering solutions and a dedicated remote support system.
In conclusion, the path to fully autonomous vehicles is both intricate and demanding, devoid of any shortcuts. As Nissan continues to test its cutting-edge technology, it lays groundwork towards future advancements, all while maintaining vigilant safety measures.
