Autonomous buses start operations in Cambridge, UK

Mellor Orion E electric midi bus fitted with CAVstar system (Photo: Fusion Processing)

Fusion Processing has reported the start of passenger services using autonomous buses in Cambridge, UK.

Using the CAVstar system developed by Fusion Processing, the automated drive system will initially be used across three Mellor Orion E electric midi buses. Two Alexander Dennis Enviro100AEV 8.5m buses will be added to the route later this year.

The autonomous buses will operate in a complex town environment with pedestrians, cyclists and other road traffic. The trial service is free to passengers. A safety driver will be onboard all buses to ensure safe operation.

Part of the Connector project operated by the Greater Cambridge Partnership, the test is supported by Innovate UK and the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles.

“This is a milestone moment for autonomous transport in the UK,” said Jim Hutchinson, CEO of Fusion Processing. “Automated transport increases safety and provides significant energy and operational cost savings. As the UK and other markets accelerate the introduction of automated public transport systems, Fusion are positioned at the front with our proven CAVstar Automated Drive System that can be applied to any vehicle type.”

CAVstar is a Level 4-capable automated drive system which features such elements as the CycleEyeCMS, a system which replaces standard mirrors.

The vehicles completed extensive track testing and safety driver training earlier this year before entering public service. To date, vehicles using autonomous drive systems developed by Fusion Processing have covered in excess of two million kilometres.