Softbank, DiDi to offer taxi technology

NHK -- Jul 20

China's biggest ride-hailing service, DiDi Chuxing announced that it has set up a joint venture with Japanese mobile carrier Softbank. DiDi Mobility Japan will provide taxi companies with a system that uses artificial intelligence to manage their fleets.

The company will also develop an app for users and aims to reduce waiting time.

It will start pilot operations this autumn in Osaka and gradually expand the service to Tokyo and Fukuoka Prefecture.

President of Didi Chuxing, Jean Liu said that they hope they can help the taxi industry and taxi companies to grow faster and to thrive more.

Several Chinese technology firms have recently entered the Japanese market. Alibaba Group and Tencent are offering online payment services in the country.