Robotruck

Robotruck Inc. is a technology firm established in April 2024 to address Japan's severe logistics crisis, known as the "2024 problem," which stems from new regulations on driver work hours and an aging workforce. The company is developing Level 4 autonomous driving systems for heavy-duty trucks to enhance transport efficiency and resolve labor shortages. Robotruck's core technology leverages proprietary AI algorithms, advanced perception and decision-making capabilities, and robust, redundant system architecture to ensure safe, 24/7 operations in various conditions. The firm's business model focuses on the research, development, and eventual commercialization of these autonomous trucks, aiming to create a sustainable, next-generation logistics infrastructure.

The company was founded by Nan Wu and Yusuke Haga. Wu is a co-founder of TuSimple, a U.S.-based autonomous trucking company that was the first of its kind to be publicly listed on NASDAQ and achieve a fully driverless truck test. His experience includes leading the development of the world's first Level 4 autonomous heavy truck and serving as CEO of TuSimple Japan. Haga previously worked at Mitsubishi Corporation in automotive sales and business development before joining the "flying car" startup SkyDrive as COO, where he led business operations and contributed to its significant growth. At Robotruck, Wu initially served as CEO and now oversees technology development, while Haga, the current CEO, drives business development and social implementation.

Robotruck has secured significant funding, including a seed round of approximately JPY 300 million in March 2025 and a Pre-Series A round of JPY 1.2 billion in July 2025. The company has been selected for government-led demonstration projects, partnering with major corporations like ORIX Auto, Toyota Tsusho, and Senko. These projects involve testing semi-trailer autonomous trucks on key highways, such as the Shin-Tomei Expressway. Robotruck plans demonstration experiments on the Tokyo-Nagoya route in fiscal year 2025 and the Tokyo-Osaka route in 2026, with a target product launch in 2028.

Keywords: autonomous trucking, logistics automation, freight transport, Level 4 autonomous driving, supply chain technology, Japan logistics, 2024 problem, heavy-duty trucks, AI algorithms, mobility DX, long-haul trucking, fleet management, transportation efficiency, driver shortage solution, startup, Nan Wu, Yusuke Haga, TuSimple, ORIX, Toyota Tsusho