PlusAI and Tokyo-based T2 have announced a strategic partnership to bring Level 4 autonomous trucks to Japan. This comes as PlusAI is also planning to become publicly listed via a business combination with Churchill Capital Corp IX.
With Japan facing persistent driver shortages and rising freight demand, the companies say that autonomous trucking represents an opportunity to enhance safety, reliability and productivity across the nation’s logistics network.
The collaboration combines T2’s technology design and logistics operation in Japan with PlusAI’s experience in the commercial deployment of autonomous trucks in the US and Europe.
In support of this partnership, Mitsui has invested in PlusAI. “Backed by Mitsui, this partnership is about bringing the right capabilities together for Japan,” said David Liu, CEO and co-founder of PlusAI. “T2 understands the unique requirements of Japan’s freight ecosystem, and PlusAI brings experience from commercial programs overseas. Together, we are taking an important step toward making autonomous trucking a reality in Japan.”
“T2 is focused on supporting Japan’s logistics by applying autonomous driving technology,” added Masatomo Kumabe, the CEO of T2. “Working with PlusAI, a company with demonstrated global expertise in autonomous trucking, positions us to accelerate the path toward safer, more efficient, more productive freight services in Japan.”
In related news, Baidu’s Apollo Go receives Dubai’s first driverless vehicle trial permit