Applied Intuition and Isuzu Motors enter strategic partnership to Develop Autonomous Commercial Trucks

Partnership offers new solutions in autonomous driving, mitigating recent truck driver shortages and logistics issues in Japan

US/ Japan- Applied Intuition Inc., a vehicle software provider based in Silicon Valley, has joined forces with Isuzu Motors Ltd., a renowned Japanese manufacturer of commercial vehicles. This strategic collaboration aims to expedite the development and deployment of autonomous trucking solutions by Isuzu. The partnership is expected to have significant economic and social benefits, particularly by improving commercial logistics and tackling the ongoing issue of critical driver shortages.

Truck driver overwork is a significant public health issue in Japan, with nearly 84% of drivers experiencing health problems and truck drivers responsible for 34.3% of overwork-related deaths. In response, Japan's government has updated its Labor Standards Law to limit annual work hours to 3,300, raising concerns about driver shortages in an industry facing a projected 36% decline by 2030. This issue, known as "The 2024 Problem," threatens supply chains and Japan’s service reputation.

To address these challenges, Applied Intuition, Inc. and Isuzu Motors Ltd. have partnered to introduce advanced autonomous driving technology. Isuzu’s “ISUZU Transformation Growth to 2030 (IX)” plan aims to establish automated driving as a key business area. Applied Intuition’s solutions will help automotive OEMs accelerate the development, validation, and deployment of safe and intelligent autonomous systems.

Mr. Qasar Younis, co-founder and CEO of Applied Intuition, said, “Applied Intuition is dedicated to helping our OEM customers deploy next-generation technology in their vehicles. In this case, we’re advancing commercial trucking autonomy with Isuzu. What sets Applied Intuition apart from other companies in our ecosystem is that our success is tied to our customers' success. Therefore, we are excited to support one of the largest truck OEMs in the world in addressing needs in commercial trucking while developing their in-house capabilities.”

Mr. Shinsuke Minami, representative director, president and COO of Isuzu Motors Ltd, said, “Working with Applied Intuition will greatly advance autonomous driving technology development and provide a strong foundation for Isuzu’s plan to launch an autonomous trucking business. This strategic partnership will serve as a strong driving force for our goal to create and offer solutions to challenges faced by our customers and society as a whole.”