TIER IV reveals steering-free robo-taxi with open-source design
- Perry Richardson
- Mar 27
- 1 min read
Japanese autonomous tech firm TIER IV has unveiled a new robotaxi prototype that operates without a steering wheel or pedals. The vehicle will be presented at a transport-focused event hosted by Kanagawa Prefecture, Sagamihara and Central Japan Railway from 22 March.
The firm is opening access to its autonomous driving system’s design, including the vehicle’s specifications and software architecture. By doing so, TIER IV aims to help other companies step into the robotaxi sector more efficiently, supporting Japan’s push to lead the development of international robotaxi standards.
Built on an existing electric vehicle platform, the robotaxi is adapted specifically for autonomous service. It features a sensor layout tailored for Autoware, TIER IV’s open-source autonomous driving software. The interior is also purpose-built, suited to driverless transport.
A conversational AI system, powered by a large language model, has been integrated to handle voice-based tasks such as choosing destinations, aiming to simplify passenger interaction.
This development follows TIER IV’s selection in 2024 for a Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry project focused on advancing mobility through digital innovation. The company is also running pilot tests in Tokyo and working with a local taxi firm to collect data to improve its autonomous systems.
TIER IV’s continued efforts signal Japan’s growing investment in self-driving transport and its ambition to scale autonomous services nationwide.
