Belfast Harbor Launches Autonomous Shuttle Pilot

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Belfast Harbor is set to launch Northern Ireland’s first self-driving passenger vehicle, the Harlander, in March 2025. Designed to provide last-mile connectivity, the nine-seater autonomous shuttle will operate within the Titanic Quarter, connecting the Titanic Halt Railway Station to nearby businesses, tourist attractions, and educational facilities. The pilot program, a collaboration with multiple partners, marks a significant step toward driverless transport systems in the UK.

Key Highlights:

  • Pilot Duration: The free pilot service will run from March to September 2025 with a safety operator on board.
  • Route Coverage: The Harlander will connect public transport hubs to businesses and leisure facilities in the Titanic Quarter.
  • Consortium Partners: Belfast Harbor leads the initiative in partnership with eVersum, Oxa, Angoka, BT, and HORIBA MIRA.
  • Funding Support: The project has secured £11 million in funding, with £5.5 million provided by Innovate UK, supporting the development of autonomous vehicle technology.

The Harlander project represents a significant advancement in autonomous vehicle technology for Northern Ireland, with Belfast Harbor taking the lead alongside a consortium of cutting-edge industry partners. The vehicle’s testing was recently observed at HORIBA MIRA’s Connected and Autonomous Vehicle facility near Coventry, where Belfast Harbor’s Mike Dawson expressed excitement about the upcoming pilot:

“We’re incredibly excited to have visited HORIBA MIRA’s Connected and Autonomous Vehicle testing facility near Coventry to see the Harlander in action, and we’re looking forward to people getting the chance to experience the service for themselves in the coming months as we start the pilot on the Harbor Estate.”

This initiative is supported by joint government and industry funding aimed at demonstrating the real-world benefits of connected and autonomous vehicle projects across the UK. Innovate UK, in collaboration with the Center for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles, has invested £41.5 million into similar innovation projects.

The Harlander pilot not only brings cutting-edge technology to Belfast but also offers a glimpse into the future of sustainable, autonomous urban transportation in the UK.

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Self Drive News
Self Drive News

Self Drive News is a premier B2B digital resource meticulously curated for industry professionals, stakeholders, and enthusiasts in the rapidly accelerating world of autonomous vehicles. Rooted in innovation and forward-thinking, we deliver insightful, reliable, and up-to-the-minute news, connecting the diverse and dynamic strands of the autonomous vehicle industry under one interactive platform.