Autonomous buses could soon become a commercial reality in Australia.
This follows the successful first “Autonobus” shuttle trial in Victoria.
A final report on the year’s trial at La Trobe University’s Bundoora campus outlines key findings and recommendations to support the implementation of autonomous vehicles (AVs) across Australia.
The report, which includes feedback from more than 500 passengers, shows the AV technology is ready and people are ready to ride in them.
The project is a collaboration between VicRoads, Keolis Downer, La Trobe University, New Zealand-based HMI Technologies, RACV and the Australian Road Research Board.
The trial was aimed at integrating Autonobuses into existing public transport systems to connect passengers to a transport hub – or last mile connectivity.
The pilot project demonstrated that safety, technical, operational and community requirements could be met for successful deployment now, Keolis Downer chief executive officer David Franks says
“What we have learnt can assist us in making the roll out of autonomous vehicles a reality in the immediate future.
“The pilot project provided strong evidence autonomous buses present a significant opportunity in the short term to meet existing mobility needs and encourage more people on to public transport in Victoria and across Australia.
Franks says the data shows Autonobuses can operate safely within complex environments and that there is strong public support for them.
He urges all levels of Governments and the private sector to work together to ensure the right infrastructure and regulatory systems are in place for AVs, including integration into planning for transport and urban development.
HMI Technologies chief executive officer Dean Zabrieszach says the Autonobus passed every test.
“The vehicle was put through rigorous safety, technical, operational and passenger testing on a pre-programmed route, interacting with pedestrians, cars, buses and cyclists,” he says.
“No other trial in Australia has tested an autonomous vehicle of this type in such a dense urban location.
“We have demonstrated that it can be done – safely, without incident and in compliance with road safety laws.”
La Trobe Centre for Technology Infusion director professor Ani Desai says the 517 Autonobus passengers provided essential feedback in pre and post-ride surveys.
“It’s clear from the results of the trial that autonomous buses are already close to reality in transport users’ minds.”
Before boarding Autonobus,, almost 20% of passenger surveyed couldn’t see themselves using driverless buses. But after the ride just 10% still felt the same way.
“Critically, the study also indicated that potential customers would be willing to pay a fair price for such a service,” Desai says.
The report recommendations include considering AVs in future infrastructure planning and investment decisions, further trials of the technology and continued education and engagement to prepare communities for the arrival of AVs.
