News On Japan

Mt. Fuji Trials Electric Self-Driving Buses

YAMANASHI, Nov 11 (News On Japan) - An autonomous driving experiment for electric vehicle (EV) buses is underway in mountainous terrain for the first time in Japan.

The trial, conducted by Fujiyoshida City in Yamanashi Prefecture and other entities, is being held on the Fuji Subaru Line with the goal of reducing vehicle exhaust emissions, which have increased with the rising number of Mt. Fuji climbers.

The EV bus operates autonomously, with a driver only intervening when necessary, and its top speed is set at 35 kilometers per hour.

According to the mayor of Fujiyoshida City, there are plans to expand the service to buses circulating around the Fuji Five Lakes area in the future.

Source: ANN

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

Japan is facing a deepening crisis of poverty and inequality, with rising reports of 'invisible homeless' individuals and growing economic hardships among the population. Discussions over reforms to the country's tax and welfare systems have taken center stage, as policymakers grapple with how to provide meaningful support.

A special lighting ceremony was held on November 20th at Ueno Toshogu Shrine, located in Ueno Park, Taito Ward, Tokyo. The event featured a unique lighting design created by renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii.

A Japanese pharmaceutical company has announced the successful commercialization of fiber made from silk produced by bagworms.

Sales for the Year-End Jumbo Lottery, which offers a combined prize of 1 billion yen for the first prize and adjacent prizes, have officially begun.

Prime Minister Ishiba, attending the G20 summit in Brazil, held talks on November 18th with UK Prime Minister Starmer, where they agreed to establish an economic "2+2" framework involving foreign and economic ministers.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Sci-Tech NEWS

Japan' Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry Muto announced on November 19th that the government has decided to cease its support for APB, a company pioneering the development of the world's first all-resin battery.

デスクで効率的に作業するには、ただ座って作業を開始するだけでは不十分です。

Infections of lumpy skin disease have been confirmed among dairy cattle in Fukuoka Prefecture, western Japan, for the first time in the country. (NHK)

Hydrogen, anticipated as the next-generation automotive fuel, is seeing accelerated efforts for its real-world implementation. Toyota Motor Corporation unveiled its first hybrid vehicle that combines a hydrogen-powered engine and an electric motor, announcing plans to conduct on-road tests starting next spring.

Many people, especially children, dread injections. However, companies in the Kansai region are advancing the development of 'painless injections,' utilizing innovative technologies.

This year's 'Global Digital Competitiveness Ranking' was released, placing Japan at 31st among 67 countries and regions, up one position from last year.

Japan's largest comprehensive media exhibition has commenced, bringing together cutting-edge broadcasting equipment, including a camera capable of capturing clear images even in complete darkness.

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) is currently experiencing issues displaying images from the Himawari weather satellite on its official website. Efforts are underway to identify the cause and restore normal service, but the timeline for recovery remains unclear.