Japanese telecommunications giant NTT Inc. has announced plans to establish a new subsidiary, NTT Mobility Inc., dedicated to developing and operating autonomous driving services. The company aims to introduce Level 4 self-driving technology — capable of fully autonomous operation under specific conditions — by fiscal year 2027.
Partnerships to Power Smart Mobility Innovation
According to NTT, the initiative will bring together automakers, local governments, and technology providers to create safe, scalable, and efficient mobility solutions. The company plans to leverage its core strengths in data networks, 5G connectivity, and artificial intelligence to improve vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication for seamless traffic management and enhanced safety.
Entering Japan’s Competitive Smart Mobility Market
The launch of NTT Mobility Inc. marks the company’s strategic entry into Japan’s smart mobility sector, a rapidly growing field where tech companies and automotive manufacturers are competing to commercialize autonomous driving systems. The new subsidiary will develop cutting-edge mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) platforms, integrating telecommunications expertise with next-generation transportation technologies.
Pilot Programs and Local Collaboration
NTT Mobility Inc. will initially run pilot projects in selected Japanese cities, focusing on applications such as public transport, logistics, and on-demand shuttle services. The company intends to collaborate closely with municipalities to build regulatory and safety frameworks necessary for large-scale deployment of autonomous vehicles, while addressing ethical and social considerations surrounding self-driving technology.
Addressing Japan’s Demographic and Labor Challenges
Japan’s aging population and persistent labor shortages in the transportation sector have accelerated interest in automated mobility solutions. NTT’s initiative is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing accessibility, efficiency, and mobility resilience across urban and rural regions. The project also aligns with Japan’s broader digital transformation (DX) goals, aimed at integrating smart infrastructure with everyday life.
Advancing the Future of Connected Mobility
With NTT Mobility Inc., the company seeks to position itself as a key player in Japan’s autonomous driving ecosystem, blending its advanced communications infrastructure with sustainable mobility innovation. If successful, the initiative could accelerate Japan’s progress toward a future where connected, autonomous transport becomes a cornerstone of smart city development.
