Kanematsu and its partners are testing whether autonomous buses can work where Japan’s regional transport gaps are hardest to fill
Kanematsu, Zentan Bus, Sompo Japan and KDDI have begun an autonomous bus trial with Toyooka City in the Kinosaki Onsen hot spring district, the first use in Japan of Autonomous a2z’s ROii. Running at level 2 with a safety driver until 4 December 2026, it lays groundwork for level 4.
Narrow streets shared by bathers, residents’ cars and pedestrians make the district a demanding test. Driving data and rider feedback will shape a service model fitted to the town.
Zentan Bus runs the service, Sompo Japan assesses risk and provides autonomous driving insurance, and KDDI supplies networks and remote monitoring from Tokyo. Kanematsu coordinates and Autonomous a2z supplies the vehicle.
Three free weekday trips run a 1.8 km, five-stop route below 20 km/h. A wide sliding door eases boarding for older passengers and visitors in yukata.
In a statement, Takeshi Kadoma, Mayor of Toyooka, said: “A new challenge is now underway, created together with our partner companies and local organizations, to carry the value of Kinosaki Onsen—built up and passed down over 1,300 years—into the future. By bringing together this historic hot spring town and the innovative technology of autonomous buses, I am confident that visitors will be able to enjoy strolling through Kinosaki’s streets even more, with greater safety and peace of mind. This demonstration is not only about enhancing the Kinosaki Onsen experience; it is also a challenge to secure transportation for our residents well into the future.”
Source: Kanematsu
Source: www.automotiveworld.com
