A range of Japanese companies have recently begun using artificial intelligence to fill necessary customer service roles, demonstrating proficiency in more complex situations, as the country struggles with a labor shortage. Ridgelinez Ltd., a Fujitsu Ltd. subsidiary, and a subsidiary of car parts retailer Autobacs Seven Co. began joint trials in August of AI assistant “Rachel.” She can recommend products based on the type of service a customer needs, car models and available stock. The AI, provided by Tokyo-based Couger Inc., helps ease the workload of car salespeople, who must possess extensi…