Royal Automobile Club of Australia tests new $250,000 self-driving bus on South Perth

The Royal Automobile Club of Australia (RAC) launched the RAC Intellibus, a self-driving bus which seats 11 passengers and runs at 28 miles an hour. Although still on its testing phase, Perth residents could register to try the experimental transport mode.

The bus features LIDAR sensors – used also in other autonomous vehicles – and is equipped with a system of stereovision cameras that helps the bus read traffic signals and detect and avoid obstacles, reports Business Insider. The $250,000 electric-powered bus, purchased by RAC in April, runs along South Perth Esplanade between the Old Mill and Sir James Mitchell Park.

Terry Agnew, chief executive of RAC, says the organisation checked 20 different public road trial locations and decided on South Perth. “Initially it’s a limited trial and based on what we learn and the success, we will then expand it,” Perth Now quotes Agnew.

During the trial period, RAC will monitor risks involved such as the possible hacking of the bus’s system and possible liabilities. Agnew sees more tests being done on other Perth roads, and could be used eventually for public transport.

South Perth Mayor Sue Doherty believes the driverless bus would complement a train station that would be built in the city. Agnew cites the numerous benefits of a self-driving bus such safety, accessibility, flexibility for travelers, feeding into the current public transport system and environment friendly.

VIDEO: Have you seen Perth’s driverless bus in action?

Source: WA Government News