TOKYO, May 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- TIER IV, a pioneer
in developing open-source software for autonomous driving (AD)
systems, is set to launch a unique robotaxi service in November 2024. Initially targeting areas and
times that conventional taxi operators struggle to serve, the
service will begin with proof of concept (PoC) tests in the Tokyo
Bay area of Odaiba. The goal is to gradually expand to cover major
districts in Tokyo by 2025 and the
entire metropolitan area by 2027. TIER IV strives to foster a
harmonious coexistence between new robotaxi services and existing
mobility ecosystems.
TIER IV has developed multiple classes of the reference design
for developing AD systems based on Autoware*1. The reference design
presents appropriate vehicle models and environments, often
referred to as operating design domains (ODDs), in which AD systems
are verified and validated to be functional, utilizing TIER IV's
software platforms.
For technical validation, the robotaxi reference design
incorporated into the JPN TAXI vehicle model has achieved
sufficient safety and availability, effectively defining ODDs even
in heavy-traffic areas. Commercial applications have also been
deployed successfully, leveraging several other variants that
inherited from the robotaxi reference design, for public
transportation networks nationwide and in-factory logistics.
Video: TIER IV's robotaxi undergoing test runs
Building upon these achievements, TIER IV is gearing up for the
commercialization of new robotaxi services. PoC tests in Odaiba are
set to pave the way for public access by November 2024, while ongoing discussions with
transportation operators will ensure seamless integration into
existing mobility ecosystems.
Looking ahead, TIER IV plans to expand these robotaxi services,
ensuring safety and availability standards comparable to
conventional taxis. Initially targeting key areas within
Tokyo before expanding citywide,
TIER IV remains committed to creating open innovation in the
autonomous driving sector, one ride at a time.
*1 Autoware is a registered trademark of The Autoware
Foundation.
About TIER IV
TIER IV, the pioneering force behind the world's first
open-source software for autonomous driving Autoware, offers a
range of advanced AD products and solutions, encompassing both
software and hardware across multiple platforms. The company is
steering the development of safe and efficient autonomous driving
technology, aiming to reimagine intelligent vehicles through the
art of open source. A founding member of the Autoware Foundation,
TIER IV conducts cutting-edge research and development in
collaboration with partners worldwide, harnessing Autoware to
accelerate the rollout of autonomous vehicles that will benefit
society as a whole.
Media Contact
pr@tier4.jp
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SOURCE TIER IV, Inc.