• Autonomous vehicle trial the first of its kind Australia
• Will allow RAC, with support from the State Government, to understand and learn about autonomous vehicle technology

Western Australia is leading the way in automated vehicle technology with the staged trial of a driverless and fully electric shuttle bus to take place this year.

Transport Minister Dean Nalder said the Department of Transport was working closely with the RAC to ensure compliance with road and vehicle safety standards while they trialled an autonomous shuttle bus.

“It is not a matter of if this technology will come to WA, but when it will, and that time is fast approaching.  Initially, the trials will be conducted at RAC’s driving centre, but eventually the shuttle will take to Perth roads,” Mr Nalder said.

The Minister said the Department of Transport was working with the RAC to identify the routes on Perth roads where the trials would take place.

“It is important West Australians are aware this technology is not confined to Hollywood blockbusters, but is actually coming to Perth.

“To ensure we are working towards providing the best integrated and intelligent transport services and solutions for the State, it is important to trial new innovative modes of transport, and this is one of those modes,” Mr Nalder said.

These types of vehicles are being tested and trialled in other countries and have autonomous features such as radar cruise control and lane detection warning systems.

“Another of the safety features of the shuttle bus is its multi-sensor technology, providing 3D perception that allows it to map the environment, detect obstacles on the road and interpret traffic signs,” the Minister said.

Mr Nalder said the State Government would benefit from the partnering between RAC and the Department of Transport, as experts from both worked together on this innovative and important transport project.

Fact File

• The shuttle bus has been developed by NAVYA SAS, a French company specialising in intelligent transport systems
• The shuttle bus can transport up to 15 passengers and has a maximum speed of 45kmh with an average speed of 25kmh