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In the quaint city of Friedrichshafen, the future of public transport is unfolding with the introduction of autonomous buses. This innovative initiative, spearheaded by the RABus consortium, will be showcased during the Technology Day event on April 27th at Franziskusplatz. Funded by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Transport, this project aims to integrate self-driving shuttles into the daily fabric of urban and rural transportation, with trials set to begin this summer.
Event Highlights and Features
The Technology Day event offers a unique opportunity for the public to engage with advancements in autonomous transportation from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Mayor Fabian Müller will inaugurate the festivities. The event is conveniently accessible by bus from the city train station, with additional parking available at an adjacent garage.
Key Highlights:
- Prototype Showcase: Attendees will get a first look at the autonomous shuttle, both inside and out.
- Interactive Stands: Partners such as Stadtverkehr Friedrichshafen, FKFS, KIT, RAB, and ZF will provide insights into the technological and operational facets of autonomous bus transport.
- Educational Activities: The FKFS and KIT stands will offer educational insights, including small learning robots and a shuttle quiz aimed at younger visitors.
Technical and Operational Insights
The autonomous shuttles are designed to seamlessly integrate into existing traffic flows, adhering to the rigorous standards set by the Autonomous Vehicle Approval and Operation Ordinance (AFGBV). In collaboration with eVersum, a shuttle manufacturer from Austria, ZF has equipped four electric shuttles with cutting-edge autonomous driving (AD) technology, tailored for mixed traffic environments. Each shuttle accommodates up to ten passengers and includes accessibility features for individuals with reduced mobility, boasting a range of approximately 100 kilometers.
Additional Innovations
During Technology Day, Friedrichshafen City Transport will also unveil the new “ePapers,” digital screens that provide real-time passenger information at RABus stops. A virtual control center at the RAB and ZF stand will further highlight the integration of technology in transit solutions.
Future Prospects
The KIT is conducting extensive research to gauge the appeal of autonomous shuttles for future services. Their findings indicate that autonomous shuttles could greatly enhance connectivity, especially on the first and last mile to train stations. This subject will be open for discussion at the KIT stand, where visitors can contribute their ideas and learn about potential future implementations.
This event marks a significant step toward integrating autonomous vehicles into public transport, promising enhanced efficiency and accessibility for the community of Friedrichshafen.
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