23:51 16-03-2026

Tier IV begins international testing of Level 4 autonomous driving

Tier IV has launched international testing of Level 4 autonomous driving technologies. The trials are taking place simultaneously in Japan, the US, and Europe, utilizing the Autoware software platform—one of the largest open-source systems for developing self-driving vehicles.

The new software stack is built on data-centric AI principles and supports various hardware configurations, including different chips and sensor systems. Developers note that the system continuously learns from real-world road data, which helps expand the operational scenarios for autonomous driving.

The solution is based on an end-to-end architecture, introduced by the company in 2025. It offers two modes of operation. The first is a hybrid system that combines perception and motion planning algorithms with diffusion models to analyze changes in the road environment. The second is a fully integrated system where perception, planning, and control are merged into a single trainable model.

The trials are being conducted in collaboration with universities. In Tokyo, a Toyota JPN Taxi is being used with the University of Tokyo to test urban routes. In Pittsburgh, a Hyundai Ioniq 5 is undergoing testing with Carnegie Mellon University on routes that include the airport. In Munich, a Volkswagen T7 Multivan is participating in trials with the Technical University of Munich.

Each test drive lasts about an hour and is conducted with a safety driver present to monitor operations. The company expects these international trials to accelerate the development of autonomous transport technologies and prepare them for widespread deployment.