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Testing autonomous driving to begin in rural Japan www3.nhk.or.jp

posted by  Yubi | 7 years, 6 months ago in Science & Technology

The Japanese government is eyeing self-driving technology as a way to help elderly people get around in mountainous areas, where populations are aging fast.

Transport Ministry officials are looking to set up hubs for auto-driving vehicles. They plan to conduct a proof-of-concept experiment at 5 roadside rest areas across Japan, starting later this year.

If all goes well, residents will be able to call up an auto-driving vehicle using a smartphone to go shopping or visit a hospital. They'll also be able to have farm produce or packages delivered.

0 | #12989 by  banzaitokyo | 7 years, 6 months ago
This is a bold step - not many countries have already authorized real life use of autonomous cars. But someone has to take the first step. And Japan's aging population needs this. Autonomous vehicles could be one of the elements that would allow the elderly to have a full and active life longer.
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0 | #12990 by  Tanuki | 7 years, 6 months ago
I hope they take the requirement "use a smartphone to book a ride" out. Other than for that one, the idea is good and this is a very good starting point.
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