The Japanese Autoflow-Road Project
The Japanese government has announced the Autoflow-Road project — a network of high-tech automated conveyor belts that will stretch for 500 km between Tokyo and Osaka.
Addressing Logistics Crisis
To address the logistical crisis caused by a shortage of drivers and increasing demand for freight transportation, Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is proposing a unique project. Autoflow-Road will consist of automated conveyor belts installed in tunnels under highways, on the surface, and near expressways.
Efficiency and Environmental Benefits
It is planned that this system, which will be launched by 2034, will replace the daily flow of 25,000 freight trailers. The project is aimed at increasing efficiency and reducing driver shortage, as well as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants.
Challenges Ahead
However, the cost of construction is a key issue. According to developers’ estimates, installing a 10 km underground tunnel can cost between 7 and 80 billion yen. The total cost of the system connecting Tokyo and Osaka is estimated at 3.7 trillion yen. The Japanese ministry has called on private companies to finance the project, but the question of competitiveness with unmanned transport remains open.
