SmartShuttle

The PostAuto SmartShuttle long term pilot is a first step to integrating self-driving buses in the public transportation system of Sion by 2020. Buses drive five days a week on an open road (3km track) and in pedestrian zones. Along its route they encounter two traffic lights, intersections, two roundabouts and interact with mixed traffic on public streets. They follow a schedule and have a fixed route with 14 stops which are station based. The shuttles are wheelchair accessible.

The aim of this project is to test the integration of AVs in public transportation systems in order to eventually provide a first/last mile solution. This pilot has allowed PostAuto to learn about customer acceptation (e.g. authorities, cities, passengers, etc.), the technical feasibility of AVs and how to integrate AVs in existing public transportation system.

AV tests require special permissions, which are dependent on the timeframe, track, etc. Public law requires that there must always be a safety driver present on board on open road, so that he/she can constantly monitor the traffic and the vehicle.

Some of the challenges experienced include: receiving permission from authorities, technical efforts needed to ensure daily operation and frequent road closing due to construction sites and events on track.

Until now 43,000 passengers have been transported with an average of 75 people per day. Every day between 20 and 40km have been travelled at an average operational speed of 8km/h. The customers satisfaction is high and no accidents have occurred so far.

Research is being conducted at Mobility Lab (by EPFL Lausanne, HESSO, City of Sion, Canton Valais, Swiss Post).