The city of Peoria, Arizona, this week approved a plan to launch the state's first shared-ride, autonomous shuttle service operating on a public street.
The city has partnered with Beep, a Florida-based autonomous mobility solutions company, to initiate a 60-day pilot program. This program is designed to understand the feasibility of using autonomous vehicles as well as ridership adoption behaviors and patterns. The city of Peoria says the pilot program is an opportunity to learn what transportation solutions are the best fit for the community alongside current transportation options.
The shuttles are manufactured by NAVYA, and have been deployed in more than 20 countries worldwide. According to the city of Peoria, each vehicle is fully electric and produces zero emissions. The shuttles have a capacity of 10 passengers at a time and are ADA accessible.
The vehicles are driverless with no steering wheel or pedals, though there will be an attendant on board at all times to ensure safety. The vehicle uses a pre-programmed fixed route with a combination of localization technologies, including advanced sensors and cameras. The vehicles are also monitored by the Beep Command Center, which can communicate with the onboard shuttle attendant at any time.
The autonomous shuttles will begin service in late February 2020 in the P83 Entertainment District. The shuttles will operate daily on Arrowhead Fountain Center Drive from Huntington University to Paradise Lane. Vehicles will be limited to a maximum speed of 15 mph as part of the pilot program. Riding the shuttle is open to the public free of charge.
---------
SOURCE: City of Peoria, Arizona
