• Autonomous driving is a system in which a vehicle is driven automatically by a system rather than a driver. The system performs all aspects of driving related to perception, decision-making, and vehicle operation. Autonomous vehicles are equipped with special devices such as sensors and cameras, as well as an autonomous driving system.
• There are six levels of driving automation, from Level 0 to Level 5. In Japan, Level 4 autonomous driving has already begun to be implemented in society. The demonstration project in Oirase will operate at Level 2, in which a driver manually intervenes when necessary.

02 What Will Happen as Autonomous Driving Becomes More Widespread?

03 Autonomous Driving Initiatives in Various Regions

To realize driverless autonomous mobility services,
various regions and companies are working toward the implementation of Level 4 autonomous driving.

Initiatives in Various Regions and with Various Vehicle Types (Level 2)

Sado City, Niigata Prefecture

Snowy-condition demonstration testing, cross-industry collaboration

Tokyo Waterfront Subcenter

Promenade, creating a lively public space

Aichi Prefecture

Major roads, robotaxis

Operations Approved for Level 4 Autonomous Driving

Eiheiji Town, Fukui Prefecture

HANEDA INNOVATION CITY®

Kamishihoro Town, Hokkaido

GLP ALFALINK Sagamihara

04 What Is Needed to Realize Autonomous Driving?

Support from road infrastructure and cooperation from those around autonomous vehicles are essential for realizing autonomous driving.

• Autonomous vehicles* are not good at responding flexibly to situations such as avoiding vehicles parked on the road. In addition to improving autonomous driving technology, the realization of autonomous driving can be accelerated when people around the vehicles who are not riding in them watch over them with understanding and consideration.
• Together, let us consider what form of autonomous transportation would be most suitable for Oirase after the bypass opens.

Examples of situations autonomous vehicles find difficult

• Vehicles parked on the road
• Cyclists or pedestrians suddenly entering the roadway
• Mistaking branches, leaves, or vegetation for obstacles

* In the case of the autonomous vehicle operating in Oirase for this demonstration.

05 Autonomous Driving Initiatives in Oirase

What Will Oirase Gorge Look Like in the Future?

Details of the Autonomous Driving Road-Space Demonstration in Oirase

① Improving Safety

Measures to Separate Pedestrians and Vehicles

Roadside signs and pavement stickers will be installed along the autonomous driving route. By making the route clearly visible, the project aims to prevent pedestrians and cyclists from suddenly entering the roadway and to discourage vehicles from parking on the road.

② Increasing Social Acceptance

Raising Awareness of the Autonomous Driving Initiative

Information booths and digital signage introducing the initiative will be installed within Oirase Gorge. Visitors will be informed in advance that autonomous vehicles are operating in the area in order to promote safety awareness.

③ Accelerating the Social Implementation of Autonomous Driving

Research on Traffic Restrictions and Other Measures

Traffic volume surveys and questionnaire surveys related to the various measures will be conducted. The effectiveness of these measures will be examined, and issues including safety-related challenges will be identified.