Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and Volvo Buses have launched the world’s first full size, autonomous electric bus. The single-deck 12-metre long Volvo electric bus has a capacity of 80 passengers.The Volvo 7900 comes with sensors and navigation controls managed by a comprehensive artificial intelligence (AI) system that is protected by industry-leading cybersecurity measures to ensure safety and security.
Running on electricity, it operates quietly with zero emissions, and needs 80 per cent less energy than an equivalent-sized diesel bus.
The bus is the first of two that has undergone rigorous testing at the university’s Centre of Excellence for Testing and Research of Autonomous Vehicles (CETRAN).
“This fully autonomous electric bus will play a role in shaping the future of public transportation that is safe, efficient, reliable and comfortable for all commuters. It will soon be tested on the NTU Smart Campus, which has been home to a number of innovations as a living testbed for technologies that impact the human condition and the quality of life,” said Professor Subra Suresh, President of NTU.
“The journey towards full autonomy is undoubtedly a complex one, and our valued partnership with the NTU and LTA (Land Transport Authority) is critical in realising this vision, as is our commitment to applying a safety-first approach,” said Håkan Agnevall, President of Volvo Buses.
