Tier IV has debuted the Minibus 2.0, which is the latest addition to its line-up of electric vehicles. This new model builds on the Minibus 1.0, incorporating high-demand features to meet the needs of the autonomous vehicle market.
Tier IV launched Fanfare in 2023 as a solution for brands aiming to develop autonomous vehicles under their own names. The Minibus 2.0 has been designed to comply with the Japanese government’s Level 4 autonomous driving criteria. A crucial upgrade from Minibus 1.0 is the enhanced redundancy system, essential for safety in L4 operations.
The autonomous development kit supporting the Minibus 2.0 comes with a next-generation architecture, optimized for compatibility with Tier IV’s reference designs. The bus is equipped with a slew of advanced sensors, including long- and short-range lidars, object and traffic light detection cameras, radars, an inertial measurement unit and a global navigation satellite system sensor. These sensors are compatible with Tier IV’s electronic and vehicle control units, optimizing the autonomous performance.
Minibus 2.0 is scheduled for delivery before the end of 2024, with initial deployments planned in regions across Japan. Tier IV aims to expand local enterprise-led deployments and explore international opportunities to meet the rising demand for autonomous buses.