The Japanese government has announced plans to introduce a high-tech automated conveyor network called Autoflow-Road to transport goods over a distance of 500 kilometers between Tokyo and Osaka.
The Autoflow-Road network can carry the equivalent of 25,000 trucks daily. (Photo: iStock)
This new project by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism aims to address the transportation crisis caused by a severe shortage of drivers and rising demand for freight services, according to a report by Interesting Engineering on June 26. By establishing the automated conveyor network, the government hopes to ensure continuous and efficient transportation of goods.
According to Shuya Muramatsu, a senior official at the road economic research agency, Autoflow-Road is designed to maximize space by utilizing sidewalks, medians, and tunnels beneath the roadway. Additionally, the project aims to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The Autoflow-Road system is currently in the planning stage and will include multiple automated conveyors installed in tunnels below major highways, elevated roads, or sidewalks.
Engineers will implement a high-capacity cargo lifting system to transport up to one ton of goods per lift, operating continuously to enhance freight efficiency. This high-tech conveyor system promises to improve operational efficiency while alleviating the burden caused by the driver shortage. The government’s project also seeks to reduce GHG and other pollutants by replacing traditional truck transportation. This will help decrease carbon dioxide and fine particulate emissions, contributing to Japan’s environmental goals, improving air quality, and mitigating the impact of the freight industry. It is expected that Autoflow-Road will operate 24 hours a day, capable of replacing 25,000 trucks daily.
Currently, Japan is facing a driver shortage in the freight sector due to a rapidly aging population, threatening to lead to a crisis in the transportation industry. Research by the Nomura Institute estimates that freight transport will decline from 1.43 billion tons in 2020 to 1.4 billion tons by 2030. However, the shortage of drivers exacerbates the situation, especially in rural areas. Studies indicate that regions like Shikoku will lack 41% of drivers, and the transportation industry will be unable to meet freight demands within the next six years.
