Nissan's Self-Driving Serena Completed Public Road Test In Yokohama

Nissan Motor has achieved a significant milestone in autonomous driving technology by successfully testing a driverless car on a public road in Japan for the first time. The test vehicle, a specially equipped Serena MPV,  navigated through the Minato Mirai district of Yokohama, marking a significant step forward in Nissan's plan to launch a nationwide mobility service.

The test vehicle is equipped with fourteen cameras, nine radars, and six Lidar sensors. The sensors' elevated position on the Serena's roof enhances detection accuracy over earlier models. Enhanced artificial intelligence capabilities improve recognition, behavioural prediction, decision-making, and overall vehicle control, allowing for smooth operation in difficult surroundings.


Nissan is utilizing its research and technology from Japan, Silicon Valley's Nissan Advanced Technology Centre, and the UK's evolvAD initiative to develop a wide range of innovative services that will promote freedom of mobility.

According to a press release issued by the Japanese automaker, Nissan is now planning service demonstration tests involving roughly 20 vehicles to take place in Yokohama between fiscal years 2025 and 2026, as well as developing an operational structure and service ecosystem in collaboration with partners. Nissan intends to deliver autonomous driving mobility services with remote monitoring, based on test findings, in fiscal year 2027.


Japan is attempting to catch up with global leaders in autonomous driving, such as Alphabet Inc.'s GOOGL Waymo, which is set to enter the Japanese market this year. Waymo has collaborated with major taxi operator Nihon Kotsu to manage a fleet of self-driving electric Jaguar I-PACE SUVs, which will first operate in Tokyo with a human driver on board.
Although Nissan's Serena test vehicle is still categorised as Level Two autonomy because a remote operator at headquarters can intervene if necessary, the company is making steady progress in self-driving technology. A human passenger is present for the test rides, but they do not actively control the car unless necessary.