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Kansai Electric Power Company Embarks on Autonomous Electric Bus Demonstration Between Kurobe Dam and Ōgizawa Stations
Kansai Electric Power Company (KEPCO) has announced the commencement of an ambitious demonstration project focusing on autonomous operation of electric buses along the scenic route between Kurobe Dam Station and Ōgizawa Station. This initiative, officially detailed in a press release dated September 12, 2025, at 06:00, marks a significant step forward in exploring innovative transportation solutions within the challenging yet beautiful Kurobe Gorge region.
The demonstration aims to assess the feasibility and safety of autonomous driving technology in a complex mountain environment, characterized by narrow roads, steep gradients, and fluctuating weather conditions. By deploying electric buses, KEPCO also underscores its commitment to sustainable transportation, aligning with broader environmental goals and the promotion of clean energy utilization.
The Kurobe Dam area is a highly popular tourist destination, attracting a significant number of visitors annually. The introduction of autonomous electric buses has the potential to enhance the visitor experience by providing a more convenient and potentially safer mode of transport. Furthermore, the quiet operation of electric vehicles can contribute to preserving the natural tranquility of the gorge.
This project is expected to gather invaluable data on the performance of autonomous driving systems under real-world operating conditions. Key areas of focus will likely include sensor technology, navigation systems, obstacle detection and avoidance, and the overall reliability of the autonomous control system. The insights gained from this demonstration will be crucial for the future development and potential wider implementation of autonomous public transportation, not only in similar tourist areas but also in more general urban and rural settings.
KEPCO, a long-standing entity involved in the infrastructure and energy landscape of Japan, is leveraging its expertise in managing complex operational environments to undertake this forward-thinking project. The collaboration involved in such a demonstration is often multifaceted, potentially including technology providers, research institutions, and local authorities, all working towards the common goal of advancing transportation technology and enhancing regional mobility.
While the press release provides the initial announcement, further details regarding the specific timeline of the demonstration, the types of autonomous technology being tested, and the expected outcomes are anticipated to be released as the project progresses. This pioneering effort by Kansai Electric Power Company represents a commendable endeavor to integrate cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices, promising a glimpse into the future of transportation in Japan’s natural landscapes.
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関西電力 published ‘黒部ダム駅・扇沢駅間の電気バス自動運転実証の実施’ at 2025-09-12 06:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.