Toronto will test Olli driverless shuttles to boost its transit system
The six- to 12-month test run will gauge how well the autonomous vehicles will bolster Toronto’s mass transit system
[Oct. 14, 2020: Jon Fingas]
Self-driving shuttles in North America aren’t limited to the US. The city of Toronto has struck a deal with Local Motors to use the latest version of its Olli driverless shuttles as part of an automated transportation trial in spring 2021. The six- to 12-month test run will gauge how well the autonomous vehicles will bolster Toronto’s mass transit system by connecting the West Rouge neighborhood with its local Go train station.
The Olli 2.0 shuttles have space for up to eight passengers. Commuters won’t be completely alone, though — two staffers (one from Pacific Western Transportation and one from either TTC or Metrolinx) will be onboard to study each trip.
The shuttles could eventually fill gaps in Toronto’s sprawling public transportation network, making for a more equitable system that doesn’t punish you for living too far from a bus or train stop. Its effectiveness might be limited as the COVID-19 pandemic continues (hopping into a small vehicle with strangers could be nerve-wracking), but it hints at a future where you can easily avoid car ownership.
#CityofTO signs agreement to deliver Automated Shuttle Trial planned for Spring 2021. News release: https://t.co/Bp8KrMPNVC pic.twitter.com/pLHervhk0R
— City of Toronto (@cityoftoronto) October 14, 2020
This Brighter Side of News post courtesy of Engadget.
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Joseph Shavit
Head Science News Writer | Communicating Innovation & Discovery
Based in Los Angeles, Joseph Shavit is an accomplished science journalist, head science news writer and co-founder at The Brighter Side of News, where he translates cutting-edge discoveries into compelling stories for a broad audience. With a strong background spanning science, business, product management, media leadership, and entrepreneurship, Joseph brings a unique perspective to science communication. His expertise allows him to uncover the intersection of technological advancements and market potential, shedding light on how groundbreaking research evolves into transformative products and industries.
