Israeli autonomous driving software company Imagry has partnered with Toyota Tsusho Corp. to pilot a Level 4 autonomous bus system in Japan, aiming to address the country’s growing shortage of professional drivers and assess the commercial viability of self-driving public transport.
The initiative will test an integrated autonomous bus solution on public roads, combining Imagry’s artificial intelligence software with Toyota Tsusho’s vehicle integration and logistics expertise. The companies said the pilot will evaluate the feasibility of deploying autonomous public transportation at scale using a standardized, production-ready platform.
The project centers on a 6.9-meter electric midi-bus configured for autonomous operation. The vehicle, built on a fully electric platform, is designed to carry up to 38 passengers, including space for wheelchair users. Hardware and software integration is completed during manufacturing, enabling operators to deploy the vehicle directly into service.
Imagry said the system uses a Level 4 autonomous driving architecture capable of operating without human intervention in defined environments. The company’s technology relies on camera-based perception and artificial intelligence rather than high-definition maps, allowing the vehicle to navigate complex road conditions with greater flexibility.
The pilot will take place on public roads and is intended to replicate real-world operating conditions, including mixed traffic, intersections, and varying road layouts. Data gathered from the trial will be used to assess reliability, safety and operational efficiency ahead of broader deployment.
The initiative comes as Japan faces a growing shortage of professional drivers. According to industry estimates cited by the partners, the country could face a shortfall of nearly 36,000 bus drivers by fiscal 2030. Autonomous systems are increasingly viewed as a way to sustain public transportation services, particularly in regional and aging communities.
“By combining our autonomous driving technology with Toyota Tsusho’s experience in mobility operations, we aim to deliver a practical and scalable solution for public transport operators,” said Eran Ofir, chief executive of Imagry.
The project is designed as a proof of concept for future commercial deployments. If successful, the partners plan to offer certified autonomous buses to public transport operators in Japan and potentially other markets.