Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida drove an autonomous vehicle, a MiCa developed by Estonian manufacturer Auve Tech, for the first time. The vehicle serves passengers at the Vison resort in Japan.

The visit aimed to learn about the development of autonomous vehicle technology. Three autonomous vehicles from Auve Tech will drive at the Vison resort, with daily operations managed by Boldly, a subsidiary of Japanese conglomerate Softbank.

“According to the Prime Minister, it was his first experience on board an autonomous minibus, and he was delighted with the ride,” said Taavi Rõivas, a member of the Council of Auve Tech, after the meeting with Kishida. “Japan is very open to innovative transport, and the lack of bus drivers promotes the rapid development of autonomous transport.”

Auve Tech autonomous vehicles drive in 16 countries

Estonian technology company Auve Tech has operated with its autonomous minibuses in 16 countries worldwide. This year, the company will take its first steps in the United States market. Auve Tech has partnered with Guident in the US market to integrate its teleoperation solution into the MiCa autonomous shuttle, amplifying its safety features and augmenting Auve Tech’s advanced autonomous technology.

MiCa autonomous minibuses produced in Estonia drive daily in city traffic all over Japan, where 18 MiCa´s have been sold. The Japanese government plans to introduce autonomous vehicles in 40 cities by the end of next year.

GOOD TO KNOW
Auve Tech specialises in the development and production of autonomous transportation systems. The company offers a full service that includes autonomous vehicles, their integration into different environments and their management.

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