Lexus LS sedans equipped with autonomous driving technology will be available for public demonstration rides in Tokyo next summer.
From July to September 2020, the Platform 4 automated driving test vehicle will showcase Toyota’s “Chauffeur” SAE Level-4 capabilities in the Odaiba district of Tokyo. Registration will be open to the public, with individuals selected to participate. In accordance with Japanese law, a Safety Driver will be present during the experience.
Introduced at CES 2019, the P4 test vehicle is based on the fifth-generation Lexus LS sedan. It is being used by the Toyota Research Institute as the development testbed of both “Toyota Guardian” active safety and “Chauffeur” automated driving applications.
More details from Car & Driver:
We asked whether drivers will be able to treat the special Lexus LS vehicles as shuttles taking them where they want to go. The answer, it turns out, is no. John Hanson of TRI told C/D that there will be “predetermined routes showcasing the vehicle’s capabilities in a broad range of driving environments, challenges, and conditions.” He also points out that a Level 4 autonomous vehicle—one that can operate without human input—is required to stay within a set area approved for its use, also known as an Operational Design Domain (ODD), which Toyota is creating specifically for use during the Olympic Games.
Discussion