The driverless bus will operate along Wharf Road between the Watt Street and Nobbys Beach roundabouts on weekdays, from 10am and 2pm in Newcastle.
11-seater Autonomous Electric Bus Operates in Australia
In Newcastle, Australia, has started a trail with a driverless shuttle bus as public transport service. Conducted by the City of Newcastle, Transport for NSW, and transport company Keolis Downer, the trial will last for 12 months.
Equipped with in-built computers and sensing systems, the 11-seater autonomous electric bus is capable of detecting obstacles, anticipating movement, and evaluating risk of collision. Made by Navya company, the shuttle bus will operate along Wharf Road between the Watt Street and Nobbys Beach roundabouts on weekdays, from 10am and 2pm. It provides useful connection for locals to go to points of interest and connect to the public transport network.
Prior to putting the shuttle bus onto public roads, the driverless vehicle has undergone rigorous safety planning and testing. It will operate along Wharf Road at around 20km per hour. Measures will be in place throughout the trial to limit the spread of coronavirus and ensure the safety of customers, including additional cleaning across the day, automatic doors and a maximum of 3 customers onboard.
