Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Machinery Systems, Ltd. (MHI-MS) has entered into a joint research agreement with Tokyo's Metropolitan Expressway Co., Ltd. to conduct a demonstration experiment of ramp merging support technology for autonomous vehicles. The initiative aims to address the challenges posed by Tokyo's high-traffic expressways, focusing on infrastructure support for autonomous driving.
The research project, set to take place from September to November 2026, will be conducted near the Yoyogi entrance of Metropolitan Expressway Route 4. The site presents significant challenges due to its short merging section, continuous curve, and height differences. MHI-MS plans to leverage its previous experience with the Shin-Tomei Expressway to navigate these complexities.
Metropolitan Expressway Co., Ltd. selected MHI-MS for this project based on its successful implementation of a Merging Support Information System on the Shin-Tomei Expressway. The current project aims to enhance infrastructure technologies that facilitate the safe and efficient merging of autonomous vehicles.
MHI-MS intends to apply its expertise in sensing and communication technologies, developed through toll collection and ETC systems, to support autonomous driving infrastructure. This effort aligns with the broader industry trend towards CASE technologies, which emphasize connected, autonomous, shared, and electric mobility solutions.
Through this collaboration, MHI-MS seeks to contribute to the development of next-generation mobility by ensuring that roadway infrastructure effectively communicates with autonomous vehicles. The company plans to expand its systems to a wider range of roadway operators, building on its existing projects.
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