Japan is set to forge a path for autonomous vehicles by constructing a dedicated expressway lane in the northern Tokyo regions of Hitachi and Ibaraki. This innovative endeavor represents Japan’s first-ever dedicated highway exclusively for driverless cars. Government authorities are driven by the goal of addressing the shortage of human vehicle operators and alleviating traffic congestion within the nation. Initially, this ambitious undertaking will function as a pilot project. Positive outcomes could pave the way for its expansion nationwide.
Under international standards, automated or driverless vehicles are classified into five levels of autonomy. The Japanese government is already plotting the introduction of such specialized lanes on highways like the Shin-Tomei Expressway. Inter-ministerial discussions have been underway, and a comprehensive plan in this regard may come to fruition by the year’s end, as reported by Nikkei Asia.
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