Japan to Deploy Army of Self-Driving Buses and Robotaxis

A major Japanese company will deploy more than 1,000 autonomous vehicles on public roads. The plan aims to solve a growing driver shortage. Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT), a leading technology firm, announced the large-scale project. Starting in 2025, it will introduce self-driving buses and robot taxis across Japan. The service will first launch in the Tokyo area. It will then expand to other regions facing severe driver shortages, especially in rural areas and for late-night shifts. These autonomous vehicles, or self-driving cars, will use advanced sensors and artificial intelligence. They are designed to operate safely in various weather and traffic conditions. NTT says this move addresses a critical national problem. Japan's population is rapidly aging, leading to a lack of bus and taxi drivers. The company believes autonomous vehicles are a necessary solution for keeping public transportation running. The large-scale deployment marks a significant step. It moves self-driving technology from testing into everyday use for Japanese communities.