RSA takes part in study of autonomous vehicle prototype

A prototype autonomous shuttlebus will begin navigation of a 2km route around Greenwich London, as part of public research into driverless vehicles and RSA will be in charge of risk mitigation. 

The driverless shuttles will use sensors and autonomy software in order to detect and avoid obstacles while transporting members of the public.

The prototype vehicles are part of Gateway Project’s public research, led by the Transport Research Laboratory and funded by the government, into how autonomous vehicles can be implemented in urban environments.

Climate change and industry minister Nick Hurd said: “The Gateway project exemplifies the innovation that the UK excels at, and through our Industrial Strategy, we will continue to ensure the UK remains at the forefront of this cutting edge work.”

The shuttle will use autonomy software and on-board sensors, such as cameras and high-speed road maps, to avoid obstacles or collisions without any reliance on GPS.

Dale Harrow, head of the Royal College of Art’s Intelligent Mobility Design Centre, said: “Over the next month we will be working with the general public to imagine future urban journeys including the daily commute, a trip to the shops and going out in the evening.”