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A new autonomous vehicle (AV) service, PRESTO, has launched in Martinez, California, aiming to improve access to healthcare and eliminate transportation barriers for residents. The free service, a collaboration between the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) and May Mobility, provides a reliable mode of transport to Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (County Hospital) patients and the general public. The service is available Monday through Friday, offering rides in the afternoon for patients and opening to all residents in the evening.
Key Highlights
- Service Availability: Monday to Friday, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. for hospital patients, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the general public.
- Booking: Rides can be scheduled by calling (925) 995-3797 or using the May Mobility app.
- Coverage Area: Service includes stops at healthcare facilities, local pharmacies, residential areas, shopping districts, and downtown Martinez.
- Vehicle Features: Fleet includes seven Toyota Sienna AVs, each equipped with May Mobility’s patented AI technology. Three vehicles are wheelchair accessible.
- Technology: May Mobility’s Multi-Policy Decision Making (MPDM) technology ensures safe and efficient driving by processing real-time scenarios.
- Safety Measures: Each vehicle has an onboard attendant to assist passengers, ensuring accessibility and comfort.
- Pilot Program: Funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the data gathered from this pilot will help shape future autonomous vehicle standards.
The PRESTO service is designed to assist County Hospital patients by offering rides to medical appointments and pharmacies during the afternoon. In the evening, the service is available to all residents of Martinez, helping to improve connectivity in the community.
“CCTA is once again making history…offering a free, autonomous vehicle transportation service,” stated CCTA Chair Newell Arnerich.
May Mobility’s fleet uses advanced AI that continuously learns and adapts to real-world scenarios, ensuring a safe ride. Each AV can accommodate five passengers, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles are also available, offering space for up to three passengers, including one wheelchair user.
May Mobility Chief Commercial Officer Manik Dhar highlighted the company’s mission to fill gaps in public transportation, noting that the PRESTO pilot represents a step toward improving connectivity and advancing autonomous vehicle adoption.
In collaboration with County Connection, CCTA has ensured that union drivers serve as safety stewards, reinforcing a commitment to innovation and safety. Feedback from passengers will be crucial in informing future advancements in autonomous mobility.
This pilot marks the third autonomous vehicle program launched by CCTA, furthering the organization’s mission to enhance transportation infrastructure in Contra Costa County.
For more information, visit PRESTO.
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