The test in Gårda is an innovation project where we are learning how a standard-sized autonomous bus operates in regular urban traffic. We are currently exploring the possibility of conducting test runs in a new area. An important part of the test is allowing passengers to ride along, and for that we need to carry out the test in a less complex traffic environment.
Why are we testing this?
It will become difficult to drive the car into the city in the future. Today, it is crowded, and it will only get more crowded. We also have climate goals to meet, which depend on reducing the number of private cars on the roads. Self-driving technology will play an important role in the public transport systems of the future, and we want to be part of that development.
In the long term, self-driving buses could complement regular public transport, helping reduce costs, improve service, and ease the driver shortage. In practical terms, this could mean, for example, that we would be able to offer round-the-clock services, and that public transport could become more flexible with self-driving smaller vehicles, that pick up and drop off passengers closer to their destinations.
Safety driver on board – but no hands on the wheel
During the initial period, a safety operator sits in the driver’s seat. The bus drives itself, but the driver can take control if needed. There’s also a software-based monitoring system that collects driving data and tracks what’s happening inside and outside the bus. The Swedish Transport Agency grants the test permit after detailed analyses of the vehicle, system, driving data, and risk assessments.
- Since spring 2022, a bus of the same model has been operating in Stavanger, Norway.
- The bus is being tested in a challenging traffic environment – it handles traffic lights, roundabouts, lane changes and various types of road users, all at normal speeds up to 40 km/h.
- During the test period, we will learn about the technology, as well as the physical and digital infrastructure and much more.
Are you also thinking about the future of mobility?
Gårda Autonom is an innovation project open to collaboration and idea exchange around modern mobility. If you, like us, are curious about what the future of public transport could look like, feel free to contact us at foi@vasttrafik.se
We test together
