The trial of a new hi-tech autonomous bus and smart transit hub which will improve transport options and real-time accessible information at one of Adelaide’s most popular locations has been launched today.
The Olli shuttle is a driverless, electric vehicle, which will drive from Mosely Square in Glenelg to the Broadway Kiosk and back, supported by two transit hubs called Matilda.
The bus can take up to eight people at once and the transit hub offers smart integrated technology to commuters, both are funded through the State Government’s Future Mobility Lab Fund.
Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government Stephan Knoll said the Olli and Matilda are examples of technological developments that could improve our transport system and customer experience for years to come.
“The State Government is pleased to partner with local company SAGE Automation, US-based Local Motors and the City of Holdfast Bay to trial the world’s first integration of an autonomous shuttle with a smart transit hub along the foreshore at Glenelg,” said Minister Knoll
“The Marshall Liberal Government is committed to improving South Australia’s public transport system and this new autonomous technology provides us with a glimpse of what could be possible in the future. We want to create a public transport system which is more efficient, customer-focused and better suits the needs of South Australians for generations to come.
“Investment in this space drives innovation and this particular project will allow more people to enjoy one of Adelaide’s most popular spots. It will also improve accessibility to the local area providing a list mile solution with the Glenelg Tram.”
The Olli shuttle is based on military-tested technology and is fully capable of operating autonomously. The vehicle incorporates lidar, computer-vision and radar detection systems to provide awareness of its environment and perform autonomous navigation.
Olli and Matilda have an on-board human machine interface and cognition allowing them to ‘talk’ and interact with passengers, providing information about the vehicle and its surrounds.
In the trial, the Olli shuttle will operate in conjunction with the cloud-connected Matilda Transit Hub to deliver a complete experience for passengers from pick-up to drop-off. Safety for passengers is enhanced through CCTV, LED lighting, PA and instant intercom access providing peace of mind.
The Matilda transit hubs have digital touch screens which will provide passenger information on real-time bus positions, the weather and localised items of interest.
