Low-Speed Autonomous Shuttles Lessons Learned from Real-World Implementation Virginia Tech Transportation Institute

Format:

Book

Conference/Event

Author/Creator:

Grove, Kevin G., author.

Contributor:

Alden, Andrew Scott

Conference Name:

Business of Automated Mobility (BAM) Forum (2021-06-23 : Live Online, Pennsylvania, United States)

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource cm

Place of Publication:

Warrendale, PA SAE International 2021

Summary:

Low-Speed Automated Vehicles (LSAV) are being deployed in various scenarios to enhance mobility for a wide variety of transportation users. Current applications include providing last-mile connectivity between rider origins/destinations and fixed transit stops, and as circulating shuttles in areas such as business districts, military bases, parking lots, and theme parks. Their low access height, integration of self-deploying wheelchair ramps, and high levels of automation also provide opportunities for improved mobility for those with physical or cognitive challenges. LSAVs are typically highly automated battery-electric vehicles that transport up to eight passengers at speeds below 15 MPH on predefined and previously mapped routes. An attendant/operator may also be present during operation depending upon manufacturer and service provider policies, state and federal regulations, operational conditions and route complexity, and the specific assistive needs of prospective riders. An EasyMile EZ10 LSAV was deployed on a route between the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) campus and a nearby bus transit stop as part of a study focusing on prospective user attitudes and acceptance with regard to trust in technology, system safety, and personal security. The LSAV operated on this route within normal travel lanes and interacted with mixed public traffic that included the full range of transportation users from pedestrians to heavy vehicles. This paper offers a series of lessons learned and potential best practices that researchers at the VTTI have derived from deploying, operating, and evaluating this LSAV in real-world conditions. The researchers hope that this information will inform municipalities, transit providers, universities, and others that are considering LSAVs deployments within their transportation systems. The range of aspects covered includes vehicle/system acquisition and maintenance, vehicle functionality, route and traffic considerations, personnel training, user interaction, and more

Notes:

Vendor supplied data

Publisher Number:

2021-01-1010

Access Restriction:

Restricted for use by site license