JR Kyushu is the first JR Group to embark on a demonstration of autonomous driving on a train that is in commercial operation.
As it becomes difficult to secure crew members in the future, we hope to improve the efficiency of our business in preparation for the prolonged effects of the new coronavirus.
According to the announcement, JR Kyushu will start demonstrating automatic operation on trains that are in commercial operation on the Kashii Line that runs in Fukuoka City from December 24th.
With a plan of 12 round trips a day, this will be the first demonstration in commercial operation for the JR Group.
This automatic operation uses a unique system that combines the ATS = automatic train stop installed on the track and the device mounted on the train and controls it so that it does not exceed the specified speed or stop position.
In this demonstration, the driver will board so that he can make an emergency stop when he finds an obstacle that the system cannot detect, but in the future, staff members other than the driver will play that role, and he wants to aim for unmanned operation in the future. is.
JR Kyushu has been developing autonomous driving technology as it becomes difficult to secure crew members due to the declining population.
Furthermore, in preparation for the prolonged effects of the new coronavirus, we hope to improve business efficiency and reduce costs.
At a press conference, President Toshihiko Aoyagi said, "We will take one step while understanding the stability of vehicle control and the psychological effects of drivers."