Isuzu plans to construct a specialized facility for testing autonomous commercial vehicles.
Isuzu Motors to Establish Autonomous Vehicle Test Course
Isuzu Motors, a leading Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturer, has announced plans to build a new test course for autonomous driving technologies. The facility, located within the Isuzu Hokkaido Proving Ground Company (IHPG) subsidiary, will be dedicated to testing autonomous driving technologies specifically for commercial vehicles.
The new test course, spread across a 190,000 sq m plot, is set to be the first of its kind in Japan. It will be partially operational by the summer of 2026 and fully operational by September 2027. The purpose of opening the facility to external entities is to advance the deployment of autonomous driving technologies throughout society, with a particular focus on heavy-duty trucks and articulated buses.
The new facility will feature multiple testing areas, including simulated urban streets, highway merging and exiting sections, and rural roads. This diverse range of environments aims to replicate complex driving scenarios, providing a comprehensive testing ground for autonomous driving technologies.
The new test course is open to companies and organizations outside the Isuzu Group, including autonomous driving startups, automotive parts suppliers, and the transport infrastructure sector. By participating in the verification and validation of autonomous vehicle technology at Isuzu Motors' new test site, these entities can contribute to the acceleration of the adoption of Level 4 autonomous technologies in trucks and buses.
Isuzu Motors' decision to build the new test course reflects the company's commitment to advancing in the development of autonomous driving technologies for commercial vehicles. The new facility is a significant step towards realising the company's vision of a safer, more efficient, and more sustainable future for transportation.
Meanwhile, the Just Auto Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact in the automotive industry. By entering these awards, companies can showcase their achievements, elevate their industry profile, and position themselves among top leaders driving automotive industry advancements. Isuzu Motors' new autonomous vehicle proving ground could be a strong contender for recognition in these prestigious awards.
