ZF Services UK is set to conduct a feasibility study on autonomous transport systems, leveraging a contract awarded by the Centre for Connected Autonomous Vehicles. The study aims to revolutionize public transportation and pave the way for cleaner, safer, and more efficient mobility in the UK.
What’s Happening
ZF Services UK, an integral part of the global ZF Group, has been awarded a contract by the Centre for Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CCAV) to carry out a feasibility study on the Autonomous Transport System (ATS) in the United Kingdom. The announcement comes ahead of the Move 2023 mobility trade fair in London.
Why It Matters
The study, supported by partners such as Transport for West Midlands, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, Syselek (UK) Limited, and OVE Arup, will assess the potential for driverless shuttles on identified routes. The aim is to revolutionize public transport, improving connectivity for isolated communities and mitigating deprivation by expanding high-quality public transport access.
Key Points
ZF Services UK’s study will review traditional rail-based requirements and potential substitutions with autonomous, emission-free shuttles on segregated lanes. It will address the transportation demands arising from HS2 Curzon Street in Birmingham and HS2 Interchange in Solihull. The study will also consider routes linking East Birmingham, ‘The Hub’ in North Solihull, Birmingham International Station, Birmingham Business Park, and the NEC.
The feasibility study will explore the elimination of certain capital and operational costs associated with traditional rail transport, while considering the required investment for an automated system.
Bottom Line
David Morgan, UK Sales Manager for Autonomous Transport Systems at ZF Group UK, highlights that this pioneering project reflects the emerging autonomous future of the transport industry. With ZF’s 25 years of experience in ATS technology and more than 62 million miles covered by its fully electric shuttles, the study will examine the full potential of this game-changing technology. ZF’s next-generation shuttle will be capable of SAE Level 4* autonomous driving, emphasizing the company’s commitment to decarbonization and improved safety standards. The success of this project could have far-reaching implications for public transportation, presenting a significant step towards a cleaner, safer, and more efficient mobility future in the UK.
