TIER IV, an open-source software developer for autonomous driving, has unveiled its latest prototype of a steering wheel- and pedal-free robotaxi in Japan.
In a move to facilitate entry into the robotaxi market for automotive companies, TIER IV is sharing its vehicle specifications and software architecture.
Built on an existing electric vehicle platform, the prototype features a design optimised for robotaxi applications, with a sensor configuration fine-tuned for Autoware, an open-source autonomous driving software.
The company has also developed a conversational AI agent powered by a large language model, allowing voice-based interactions for functions such as destination selection.
The move is part of efforts to establish a Japan-led standard for robotaxi development and strengthen the country’s role in the global autonomous mobility sector.
The prototype development follows TIER IV’s selection in August 2024 for a Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) project.
The initiative aims to promote digital transformation in the mobility sector through autonomous driving development and proof of concept (PoC) tests. The project’s maximum grant in fiscal year 2024 was $4.5m (¥700m).
Beyond the prototype, TIER IV is conducting robotaxi pilot tests in Tokyo and collaborating with a taxi operator on a data collection project to improve autonomous driving AI.
Through these efforts, the company aims to accelerate the adoption of autonomous mobility services.
