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A long haul autonomous trucking trial has been completed in Japan as part of a government backed effort to explore how automated freight transport could be deployed across the country’s logistics network.
The proof of concept trial was led by autonomous driving technology developer TIER IV in partnership with logistics company Yamato Transport and Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation. The project examined how automated driving systems could support long distance freight transport between two major logistics hubs.
Conducted between 16 February and 20 February 2026, the trial involved transporting customer freight between Yamato Transport’s Haneda Chronogate facility in Tokyo and the Kansai Gateway hub in Osaka.
The test route covered approximately 500 kilometers and reflects one of Japan’s busiest freight corridors. The project forms part of a wider initiative supported by the Japanese government aimed at assessing the feasibility of autonomous freight transport and addressing future logistics challenges.
Testing autonomous freight on major highway routes
During the trial, a semi trailer truck equipped with Level 2 plus automated driving technology completed two round trips along the route connecting Tokyo and Osaka.
Automated driving was deployed for roughly 100 kilometers of each journey on the Shin Tomei Expressway between two service areas in Shizuoka Prefecture. This section of highway is known for its modern infrastructure and relatively controlled traffic conditions, making it suitable for testing automated systems.
Level 2 plus automation means the vehicle can perform certain driving functions such as steering and speed control under specific conditions while a human driver remains responsible for monitoring the system.
The trial allowed engineers and operators to observe how automated driving systems function in real world freight operations. Researchers monitored how the truck responded to highway traffic conditions, lane positioning and long distance driving demands.
Although the vehicle was capable of automated operation for portions of the route, a trained driver remained behind the wheel throughout the trial to supervise the system and intervene if required.
Data collected to support future autonomous systems
Beyond simply demonstrating the technology, the trial focused heavily on collecting operational data that could support the next phase of autonomous truck development.
Engineers evaluated a range of performance metrics including vehicle stability, safety system responsiveness and the overall reliability of the automated driving functions.
Particular attention was given to the movement of the trailer during automated driving. Researchers monitored trailer sway and articulation behavior to better understand how automated systems manage the dynamics of large freight vehicles.
Other measurements included lane keeping accuracy and the length of time the vehicle was able to operate with hands off driving.
These insights will contribute to the continued development of autonomous driving systems capable of supporting long haul logistics operations. Companies involved in the project say real world trials are essential to refining automated systems and improving their reliability.
Path toward level 4 autonomous trucking
The companies involved in the project say the ultimate goal is the introduction of Level 4 autonomous trucks capable of operating without human intervention under specific conditions.
Level 4 automation would allow trucks to operate fully autonomously within defined routes or environments such as highways or logistics corridors.
Developers believe this technology could help address several growing challenges facing the logistics sector including driver shortages, rising freight demand and pressure to improve operational efficiency.
Japan in particular has been actively exploring automation as a way to maintain freight capacity as the country’s workforce ages and the number of available truck drivers declines.
Feedback from drivers involved in the trial also highlighted the importance of familiarization with automated systems.
One driver who participated in the test said there was initially a learning curve when interacting with the automated driving technology.
“There was a bit of a learning curve at first, but once I understood how the system behaves, I felt at ease,” the driver said.
The driver added that autonomous trucks could eventually become an important support tool for freight operators by helping maintain hauling capacity across long distance routes.
Sources
Yahoo Finance Singapore
AloJapan.com