TIER IV Completes Robotaxi Pilot Tests in Tokyo

TIER IV has successfully completed pilot tests for its robotaxi service in Tokyo, announced in a press release. The tests, part of a phased approach to commercialization, took place in Odaiba in November 2024 and in Nishi-Shinjuku in December 2024.

The pilot tests involved JPN TAXI vehicles equipped with TIER IV's autonomous driving system, navigating through approximately 500 complex scenarios. These included executing turns at intersections and avoiding parked vehicles. A safety-first approach allowed operators to switch to manual control when necessary. The tests confirmed the adaptability of operational design domains (ODDs) in dense traffic conditions and identified technical challenges for broader deployment.

In Odaiba, passengers used voice commands to set destinations, with each ride averaging 3 km and a total driving distance of 354 km. In Nishi-Shinjuku, passengers used a ride-hailing app to select from seven destinations, with rides averaging 3 km and a total distance of 622 km. TIER IV engaged with local stakeholders to discuss scaling operations in the area.

Moving forward, TIER IV plans to integrate findings from these tests into a reference design for robotaxis, aiming to facilitate the launch of operations within three months in target regions by 2027.