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2024-04-03

Experience the Future: Ride Scotland's Autonomous Buses on the AB1 Route Today!

Embark on a journey into the future of transportation with Scotland's groundbreaking autonomous buses, now operational on the AB1 route as part of the pioneering CAVForth project. Spearheaded by Fusion Processing Ltd and backed by the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles, this initiative brings together leading innovators such as Stagecoach, Transport Scotland, Alexander Dennis, Edinburgh Napier University, and Bristol Robotics Laboratory to revolutionize passenger transportation.

Running on a 22.5-kilometer route from Ferrytoll Park & Ride in Fife to Edinburgh Park Interchange, these autonomous buses operate seven days a week, departing every 30 minutes. With Alexander Dennis' fleet of five Enviro200AV buses at the helm, passengers can expect a seamless commute through Scotland's picturesque landscapes.

Despite traversing highways, roundabouts, and private land, these buses navigate with precision, thanks to Fusion Processing's CAVStar autonomous driving system. Utilizing data from an array of sensors, including cameras, lidars, and radars, along with advanced AI processing, the system ensures optimal efficiency throughout the journey. Moreover, direct communication with traffic light systems enables the buses to synchronize their speed, minimizing unnecessary braking and acceleration, thus reducing wear on brakes and tires.

Jim Hutchinson, CEO of Fusion Processing, emphasizes the global significance of the CAVForth project, highlighting its capability to safely operate in challenging road environments. With safety as a top priority, each bus is equipped with a trained driver and an autonomous vehicle specialist, ensuring passenger reassurance and smooth operation.

During the initial phase of operation, over 90% of the route will be autonomously controlled, with short sections manually managed to facilitate a gradual transition. This controlled build-up approach prioritizes safety while showcasing the potential of autonomous technology on public roads.

The success of the CAVForth project underscores Scotland's commitment to innovation in transportation. Following extensive testing, including over 1 million miles covered by the autonomous vehicle driving system, the project has secured additional funding for its expansion. The upcoming CAVForth II project, supported by £10.4 million in funding, will extend operations until 2025, with plans to expand the route further north to Dunfermline City bus station in 2024.

Building upon previous trials conducted in collaboration with Stagecoach, Fusion Processing, and Alexander Dennis, the CAVForth project represents a significant leap forward in autonomous transportation. From autonomous refueling to seamless parking, these buses exemplify the potential of innovation to redefine the future of mobility.

In conclusion, embrace the future of passenger transportation today by boarding Scotland's autonomous buses on the AB1 route. Join us as we embark on a journey towards safer, more efficient, and sustainable transportation solutions. Experience the CAVForth revolution firsthand and witness the dawn of a new era in mobility.

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