Evaps Saclay

This shuttle service, operated by Transdev for VEDECOM, aims to build a liaison between the Massy-Palaiseau multimodal train station and the Polytechnic campus. Connections between these two areas are already available in the existing public transport system through regional rail service, national high speed train, and night buses. The EVAPS pilot provides on-demand night shuttles which use dedicated bus lanes. The vehicles follow a fixed route with four station based stops and are accessible on demand, and to wheelchairs. Along their route, the shuttles encounter mixed traffic on private estates, mixed traffic on public streets and mixed traffic on bus tracks.

It is essential that the existing infrastructure is equipped and connected as it is the only way it will allow the operation of AV fleets on existing open/semi-dedicated roads. The general aim of this pilot is to demonstrate the benefits of connected infrastructures and of the safety and efficiency of this type of service.

The budget of the pilot is €12m. It is financed by the National funding (PIA) and through private funding (partners).

There were some challenges with the mixed traffic situations such as pedestrians crossing, other vehicles, vulnerable road users (RUs), bi round-abouts and night traffic.