East Japan Railway (JR East) has announced plans to introduce driverless bullet trains, with the first phase set to begin in 2028. Initially, these trains will feature automated systems that assist the driver, who will remain in the cab to oversee operations. This rollout will occur on the Joetsu Shinkansen line, specifically between Nagaoka and Niigata stations, covering a distance of 55.7 kilometers.
The company aims to expand these automated services, with fully driverless operations expected to commence in the mid-2030s. This initiative is largely driven by Japan’s demographic challenges, including a declining birthrate and an aging population, which have led to concerns about future labor shortages in the railway sector. JR East’s President, Yoichi Kise, emphasized that the introduction of self-driving technology will not only enhance safety by reducing human error but also allow for more flexible train scheduling and enable staff to focus on a broader range of tasks.
In addition to the Joetsu line, JR East is considering extending automated train operations to other routes, including the Hokuriku and Tohoku Shinkansen lines. The company is also exploring the use of fully autonomous trains on out-of-service tracks by 2029, further indicating a significant shift in Japan’s rail transportation landscape as it adapts to changing workforce dynamics and technological advancements