Wed Sep 18 04:10:55 UTC 2024: ## Japan’s JR East to Launch Self-Driving Bullet Trains in 2028
**Tokyo, Japan** – Japan’s largest railway operator, JR East, has announced plans to launch self-driving bullet trains on a portion of the Joetsu Line starting in 2028. This marks the beginning of the company’s ambitious plan to automate more of its train lines, tackling the growing issue of train driver shortages in Japan.
The initial rollout will involve a 55.7-kilometer section of the Joetsu Shinkansen Line between Niigata and Nagaoka stations. The company aims to extend automation to the entire Joetsu Shinkansen Line by the mid-2030s.
While the trains will operate autonomously, a driver will remain on board to handle emergencies, ensuring passenger safety.
JR East president, Yoichi Kise, emphasized that the move towards driverless trains will allow staff to focus on a wider range of tasks. The company sees automation as a way to maintain efficiency and service quality in the face of staffing challenges.
This initiative showcases JR East’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement in the public transportation sector. Japan’s railway system, renowned for its efficiency and punctuality, is constantly seeking ways to improve and adapt to evolving needs. The introduction of self-driving bullet trains represents a significant step towards the future of Japan’s railway network.
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