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A test of self-driving bus services organized by the transport ministry kicked off in Tochigi Prefecture on Saturday.
The ministry hopes to launch the autonomous bus services in fiscal 2020 to provide a means of transportation for elderly people living in hilly and mountainous areas with dwindling populations.
The ministry hopes automated public transport services will help elderly people who have trouble visiting hospitals or shopping because they can no longer drive or their bus services have been canceled.
“The ride was comfortable,” one participant said, adding, “I also enjoyed the views from the large window.”
View a picture of the bus here.
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Discussion
What are the potential benefits of this autonomous bus service in Tochigi prefecture?
Can you think of any other public services involving automation and smart technology?
How open to innovation is your local/national government?