Japanese automakers are on the hunt for more IT engineers to work on self-driving and AI software. They are banking on a plan to focus their research and development operations in districts already home to numerous tech firms.



Subaru opened a new facility for vehicle-control software in central Tokyo's Shibuya Ward this month. The company has previously based similar hubs outside the center of the capital. It opened its first site in Shibuya Ward in 2020. That made it easier to recruit engineers.



Rival Mazda Motor is set to open a new development center in Minato Ward, also in central Tokyo.



Honda Motor will establish a similar facility in the western city of Osaka this spring, and another in Tokyo in early 2026. The automaker already has four sites across the country.



The shift comes as competition intensifies across the auto sector for critical advancements in self-driving technology.