Yahoo Invests in Self-Driving-Bus Project in Japan

Yahoo’s Japanese operations have invested 490 million yen ($4.4 million) into SB Drive Corp., a one-year-old startup that aims to launch self-driving shuttle bus service by 2020.

Japan’s SoftBank Corp. contributed an additional 20 million yen in the second round of financing for SBD and now holds a 51% stake in the company. Yahoo’s investment gives it a more than 48% stake, with the remaining 0.3% held by founding partner Advanced Smart Mobility Co.

SBD already has tested a prototype self-driving bus under controlled conditions and plans to conduct tests on public roads next year. The program is focusing on rural areas with aging populations who otherwise may not have access to public transportation.

As part of its investment, Yahoo Japan will integrate its map app with the automated buses to provide real-time weather and traffic updates. SB Drive also has formed partnerships with four municipalities in Japan.

Earlier this year SB Drive purchased two autonomous buses from France's Navya Technologies. It also has tested self-driving buses from Toyota Motor Corp.'s Hino unit.