Advanced Smart Mobility Co., Ltd.

Autonomous Driving Demonstration Experiment Case Studies

Nationwide Demonstration Project Database

Promoting Technology Demonstration and Social Implementation Across More Than 20 Prefectures Nationwide

Advanced Smart Mobility has conducted repeated demonstration experiments for autonomous buses and trucks throughout Japan, accumulating technical validation results and operational expertise aimed at real-world implementation.
By carrying out projects across diverse operational environments with varying regional characteristics and operating conditions, we have established one of Japan’s largest autonomous driving demonstration networks.

Hokkaido & Tohoku Region

  • ・Taiki, Hokkaido: Japan’s first paid autonomous driving demonstration experiment
  • ・Nagai City, Yamagata Prefecture: Verification of technical adaptation in snowy, icy roads and low-temperature environments

Kanto Region

  • ・Hitachi City, Ibaraki Prefecture: Hitachi BRT commercial operation
  • ・Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture: First Level 4 demonstration experiment in the Tokyo metropolitan area
  • ・Haneda Airport, Tokyo: Practical operational testing within restricted airport areas

Chubu & Kansai Region

  • ・Shin-Tomei Expressway: Truck platooning demonstration experiment
  • ・Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture: Chubu Centrair International Airport demonstration project
  • ・Osaka Prefecture: Operation of the Osaka-Kansai Expo

Chugoku, Shikoku & Kyushu Regions

  • ・Ishigaki Island, Okinawa Prefecture: Demonstration of mobility support on remote islands
  • ・Saga City, Saga Prefecture: Demonstration of a sightseeing service in the city center
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Ride Operation Data and Social Impact Assessment

Measuring Operational Performance and Social Implementation Effects of Autonomous Bus Demonstration Projects

At Advanced Smart Mobility, we continuously collect and analyze operational data from autonomous bus demonstration projects conducted nationwide, including driving distances and operation frequencies. In addition, we quantitatively evaluate post-deployment usage trends, transportation improvement effects, and environmental impact reductions, utilizing these insights to help establish sustainable mobility services.

Commissioned Projects and Technology / Service Demonstration Experiments from Public and Private Sectors

Quantitative Evaluation of Social Implementation Effects

Transportation & Mobility Effects

  • ・Increase in ridership: Average improvement of 15–20% in demonstration areas
  • ・Improved accessibility: Expanded mobility opportunities for elderly people and individuals with disabilities
  • ・Improved traffic flow: Reduced congestion and enhanced schedule reliability
  • ・Reduced environmental impact: Lower CO2 emissions and improved energy efficiency

Social & Economic Effects

  • ・Revitalization of local economies: Increased tourism and higher commercial sales
  • ・Job creation: Employment opportunities related to operations and maintenance
  • ・Improved access to healthcare and welfare services: Support for hospital visits and shopping access
  • ・Enhanced quality of life for local residents: Improved convenience and peace of mind

Feedback from People Who Experienced the Demonstration Projects

Hyogo Prefecture (Awaji Island), woman in her 80s

Living in a mountainous area and having surrendered my driver's license, I was struggling with the infrequent bus service to the city.
Thanks to the self-driving buses that filled that gap, I can now shop and go to the doctor in town at my own pace without rushing, which I'm truly grateful for.
At first, I was both scared and surprised to see it driving automatically on mountain roads, but except for when entering roundabouts, the ride was so smooth it was almost indistinguishable from a human-driven bus.
I sincerely hope this service continues, as it will become an indispensable part of the community.

Saga Prefecture, male in his 40s

At first, I was a little apprehensive, but the actual experience gave me a sense of security far exceeding my expectations, and I could almost feel the future where autonomous driving is commonplace.
What I particularly appreciated was the smooth acceleration and deceleration; there was hardly any shaking. Even though I usually get motion sickness easily, I found the ride very comfortable. On the other hand, there were still some areas, such as construction zones, where I felt human driving was smoother.
I understand there are challenges unique to autonomous driving, such as balancing safety and ride comfort, but I'm looking forward to seeing how it continues to evolve in the future.

Kyoto Prefecture, woman in her 30s

I rode the bus with a stroller in a busy area with lots of cars and pedestrians. Since it's self-driving, I expected it to guide me to a wider, less crowded area, but I was surprised that it stopped perfectly in front of the stop without any gaps.
I was impressed that I could get on and off smoothly without getting caught on any steps.
As it becomes a more widespread mode of transportation for daily use, I hope it will continue to develop in a way that takes into account the needs of various users.