A New Era for Logistics
The Japanese government is spearheading this initiative as part of its broader strategy to tackle rising delivery demands. Although funding details are yet to be finalized, the project is considered crucial for modernizing Japan’s transportation infrastructure. The Corridor, also referred to as the “Auto Flow Road,” will feature a three-lane section on a major highway where large, wheeled boxes will be autonomously transported.
A prototype system is expected to undergo testing by 2027 or 2028, with full operations aimed for mid-2030. Yuri Endo, a senior official from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, highlighted the necessity for innovative approaches to road usage in light of the decreasing labor force and the need to streamline driver workloads.
Automatic and Unmanned Transportation
The core concept of the Auto Flow Road is to create dedicated space within the road network for logistics, utilizing a 24-hour automated and unmanned transport system. This design is anticipated to help cut down carbon emissions while addressing labor shortages in the trucking industry.
As part of the automated loading process, forklifts will be used, coordinating seamlessly with airports, railways, and seaports. The boxes, resembling large closets, will measure approximately 180 centimeters in height and 110 centimeters in both width and length, optimized for efficient cargo transport.
Expanding Automation Beyond Japan
While the project might seem tailored for densely populated and low-crime countries like Japan, similar concepts are being explored globally. Switzerland is considering an underground route, while London is working on a fully automated system powered by linear motors. If successful, Japan’s system could expand to other routes, though human drivers would still be needed for last-mile deliveries.
Addressing the “2024 Problem”
Japan’s truck driver shortage is exacerbated by recent laws limiting the amount of overtime drivers can log, designed to prevent overwork and accidents. However, this “2024 problem” has raised concerns among logistics providers and government officials, with projections indicating that Japan’s total transport capacity could decrease by 34% by 2030. The Japan Trucking Association reports that domestic transport capacity relies on trucks for over 91% of the total 4.3 billion metric tons transported annually.
The ongoing rise in online shopping during the pandemic has increased delivery demand, with more than 60% of Japanese households utilizing delivery services. Yet, the profession of truck driving remains unattractive to many job seekers, who often find the long hours and time away from home challenging.
Enhancing Delivery Safety
In recent years, the annual deaths resulting from delivery truck accidents have been about 1,000, a significant improvement from around 2,000 deaths in 2010. The Trucking Association is advocating for safer delivery practices and urging consumers to either pause or bundle their delivery orders to alleviate the pressure on the logistics system.
According to Professor Yuji Yano from Ryutsu Keizai University, trucks are responsible for transporting approximately 90% of Japan’s goods, including 60% of its fresh produce. As delivery giants like Nippon Express, now known as NX Holdings, focus on addressing the challenges faced by the trucking industry, the future of logistics in Japan seems poised for transformative change.
