Driverless buses will ply the roads in 5 years' time; technology is currently tested at CETRAN
Autonomous buses and shuttles will be launched in Punggol, Tengah and Jurong Innovation District during off-peak periods to complement human-driven buses in 2022. The aforementioned areas will be equipped with autonomous vehicle (AV)- friendly features, to facilitate the implementation of this new technology. Commuters will also be able to hail autonomous shuttles on demand using their mobile phone as well.
(Image: todayonline)
The Centre of Excellence for Testing & Research of AVs (CETRAN) was developed by Nanyang Technological University (NTU), LTA, and JTC. There will a circuit simulating Singapore’s road conditions and environments, such as stopping at traffic lights, navigating through rainy weather, and interacting with other drivers and pedestrians. Seven 360-degree CCTV cameras have been installed around the test centre to trace the progress of the buses, and real-time footage will be sent to LTA’s Autonomous Vehicle Monitoring and Evaluation System (OLIVE).
"The autonomous vehicles will greatly enhance the accessibility and connectivity of our public transport system, particularly for the elderly, families with young children and the less mobile"
-Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan
The driverless vehicles will not only help to manage the shortage of manpower in Singapore, but it will also propel Singapore forward as the government progresses towards building a Smart Nation.