TIER IV: Japan's First Level 4 Autonomous Driving Milestone

TIER IV, an innovator in autonomous driving technology, reached a milestone by securing Level 4 certification for its AI Pilot system.

The system is now powering an autonomous bus service in Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.

The achievement marks Japan's first-ever Level 4 certification to operate at speeds up to 35km/h on public roads shared by pedestrians and general traffic.

The certified route runs between Shiojiri Station and Shiojiri City Hall, setting a precedent for autonomous mobility.

AI Pilot: Autonomous Transportation

At the core of this breakthrough is TIER IV's cutting-edge AI Pilot system, which combines advanced technologies designed to power autonomous vehicles. The AI Pilot integrates the open-source software Autoware, alongside sensors, an onboard computer, and an in-vehicle infotainment system.

The system is versatile and can be incorporated into various vehicle models, providing a scalable and adaptable solution for autonomous driving.

The approach ensures that TIER IV remains at the forefront of profound tech innovation, driving the future of intelligent vehicles.

Open-source software: The autoware advantage

TIER IV's open-source platform, Autoware, is a critical component of innovation. As the first of its kind, Autoware has redefined the possibilities for autonomous driving software. By leveraging the open-source foundation, TIER IV has created scalable, adaptable platforms that meet today's needs and are ready for the future.

As a founding member of the Autoware Foundation, TIER IV's commitment to open-source technology is more than just a technological feat—it's a mission. "We are reshaping the future of intelligent vehicles with open-source software," TIER IV states, highlighting its goal of enabling individuals and organisations to thrive in the rapidly evolving world of autonomous driving.

Supporting Japan's autonomous vehicle revolution

The Shiojiri Level 4 certification is a significant step forward in TIER IV's ongoing efforts to support Japan's national initiative to deploy autonomous vehicles nationwide. The latest achievement follows another critical milestone: the company's Level 4 certification for autonomous vehicle operations at GLP ALFALINK Sagamihara, secured in October 2023.

By continuously developing a robust certification framework, TIER IV is making it easier for partners and stakeholders to navigate the complex regulatory landscape of autonomous driving.

The efforts contribute significantly to expanding and standardising autonomous vehicle technologies in Japan, a vital step toward widespread adoption.

Leading the way in autonomous driving certification

TIER IV's leadership in autonomous driving extends beyond technology development. They are playing a crucial role in shaping the certification process for autonomous vehicles.

By creating a certification framework for partners developing their autonomous driving systems, TIER IV is helping to pave the way for other companies and organisations to bring their solutions to market.

The commitment to collaboration and innovation highlights TIER IV's broader vision: a world where autonomous vehicles are safe, reliable, and accessible to all.

With its deep expertise in technology and certification, TIER IV is setting the standard for the future of autonomous driving.

The future of autonomous mobility

As TIER IV continues to push the boundaries of autonomous vehicle technology, the company remains focused on one clear goal—transforming the future of mobility.

With achievements like the Shiojiri certification and its work with partners across Japan, TIER IV is well-positioned to lead the charge in making autonomous driving a reality on public roads.

Its success with AI Pilot and Autoware is just the beginning, as it continues to develop scalable solutions for a future where intelligent, autonomous vehicles become an integral part of everyday life.

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