Isuzu plans autonomous trucks and buses by 2027 - Nikkei

Illustrative image: Isuzu Giga truck with the text "New Five Star Giga" superimposed on it. . Source: Isuzu

Isuzu is seriously engaged in the development of self-driving vehicles: according to Nikkei Asia, by 2027 the company may launch trucks with autopilot on the roads of Japan.

Here's What We Know

Isuzu is collaborating with US startup Applied Intuition, which specialises in developing software for autonomous vehicles. Isuzu President Shinsuke Minami confirmed that the company intends to integrate Level 4 autonomy systems into its Giga Prime series tractor-trailers. In the first stages, these trucks will be used to transport goods between warehouses on fixed routes in Japan.

Isuzu Giga: illustrative photo. Source: Isuzu

SAE Level 4 means that the vehicle can move independently in most conditions. However, the driver's presence is still required to intervene if necessary.

Buses are also in the plans

In addition to trucks, Isuzu is working with a Japanese Tier IV company to develop buses with a similar level of autonomy. These vehicles are planned to be tested at Fukuoka Airport and in parts of Greater Tokyo.

According to Minami, if the introduction of self-driving transport is successful, this area could become a significant source of revenue for the company.

Source: Nikkei Asia