MUJI is developing self-driving buses that can function in any weather condition

japanese lifestyle brand MUJI is teaming up with finnish autonomous driving company sensible 4 to design a self-driving bus — the first in the world capable of functioning in all weather conditions. with a capacity of 10 seats, and 6 standing positions, ‘gacha bus’ has been closely designed with consideration for its users. externally, the bus bears a friendly, slightly rounded silhouette without a definitive front or back; internally, seating follows the soft square shape of the vehicle. the shuttle will premiere in march 2019 in helsinki, after which it will be put to use in three finnish cities as part of real-life traffic test-drives.

the bus will be the first in the world capable of functioning in all weather conditions

the design of the ‘gacha bus’ pays close attention to weather conditions, which play a critical role in the feasibility of autonomous bus use. currently, heavy rain, fog and snow prevent self-driving vehicles from operating, but sensible 4 has focused on technology tests in arctic conditions, giving the company a unique advantage. meanwhile, from a design perspective, MUJI has instilled its minimalist philosophy in the vehicle’s layout and configuration, making it concept that can be shared among the community.

sensible 4 and MUJI are finalizing plans for first ‘gacha’ fleet, which is expected to roll out in 2020.

internally, ‘gacha bus’ has been closely designed with consideration for its users

the shuttle will be put to use in three finnish cities