NYK, MTI, and Grid Develop and Launch AI-based Car Carrier Allocation System
– Calculates millions of shipping routes in minutes, creating optimal plans and contributing to GHG reduction –
Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha
MTI Co., Ltd.
Grid Co., Ltd.
Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (“NYK”), MTI Co., Ltd. (“MTI”), and Grid Co., Ltd. (“Grid”) have jointly developed an AI-based system that automates and optimizes the allocation plan of car carriers. Full-scale operations of the system were launched at NYK in July.
NYK-operated Pure Car Carrier Daisy Leader
Background of System Development
NYK operates more than 100 car carriers, the largest fleet in the world. Historically, ship allocation planning has been an extremely complex and labor-intensive process, requiring the comprehensive evaluation of numerous conditions for hundreds of voyages several months in advance.
To overcome these issues, we sought to develop a system designed to enhance planning accuracy and efficiency by organizing and structuring the data and decision-making factors involved in shipping and scheduling.
System Features
This system uses AI to generate an optimal plan within approximately 10 minutes after evaluating millions of potential shipping schedules for several months ahead. The system analyzes numerous factors — including customer requirements, fleet operating status and repair schedules, and port congestion risks — to optimize KPIs such as vessel utilization, transport efficiency, and transport costs.
Additionally, by integrating considerations for the effective use of next-generation fuel ships and carbon pricing, the system is expected to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, thereby contributing to both economic efficiency and environmental sustainability.
NYK, MTI, and Grid remain committed to driving further advancement and efficiency in car carrier operations. Our joint efforts aim to foster technological innovation and environmental responsiveness, thereby contributing to the realization of a more sustainable society.
Company Profiles
Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha
President and CEO: Takaya Soga
Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Business: Liner shipping, logistics, automotive, dry bulk, energy, and other businesses (real estate, passenger ships, etc.)
Website: https://www.nyk.com/english/
Press release on this matter: https://www.nyk.com/english/news/2025/20250922_01.html
MTI Co., Ltd.
President and CEO: Hideki Suzuki
Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Business: Research and development of environmental and energy-saving technologies, ship operation technologies, and information technologies; support for improving transportation quality; logistics solutions; and research and development in new business areas
Website: https://www.monohakobi.com/en/
Press release on this matter: https://www.monohakobi.com/en/company/news/news_20250922/
Grid Co., Ltd.
CEO: Masaru Sogabe
Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Business: AI software development/analysis/optimization
AI framework “ReNom” development
Quantum Computer Software and Algorithm R&D
Website: https://gridpredict.jp/en
Press release on this matter: https://gridpredict.jp/en/news/20250922
Contacts
Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha
Media Relations Team, Public Relations Group
Email: NYKJP.ML.MEDIA@nykgroup.com
MTI Co., Ltd.
Public Relations
Tel: +81-3-5222-7603
GRID Co., Ltd.
Public Relations
Tel: +81-70-5567-0542