The world's first fleet of self-driving commuter buses is set to enter service in Scotland next month. This comes after at least one successful trial run in January, as well as financial support from the UK government.
Stagecoach's self-driving vehicles will begin service on a 14-mile (22.5 km) circuit that includes Edinburgh's famous Forth Road suspension bridge on May 15. Five single-decker buses will be in service, carrying approximately 10,000 passengers weekly.
Stagecoach said that their autonomous buses will move at a top speed of 50mph (80 kph) through pre-selected highways and bus lanes while navigating traffic lights and roundabouts. Although no human drivers are required for each bus, two staff members will remain on board at all times—one in the driver's seat to oversee piloting systems and another to assist passengers, accept tickets, and assist as needed.
The initiative is part of the UK government's Project CAVForth initiative. "CAV" is an abbreviation for "connected autonomous vehicles." CAVForth, which was founded in 2019, will launch its autonomous bus fleet next month, capping almost four years of research, planning, and development.
Have more mobility news that we should be reading and sharing? Let us know! Reach out to Sage Kashner (kashner@ctaa.org).
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