More Autonomous Vehicles Hit Public Roadways

Bus manufacturer New Flyer announced on Feb. 1 the launch of its Xcelsior AV autonomous bus. While possibly better known for some of its battery-electric and other alternatively powered vehicles, New Flyer is looking to improve public transportation in a variety of ways, including through development of autonomous vehicles.

The bus is battery-electric powered, using technology from the company’s Xcelsior CHARGE electric bus.

Autonomous operation is made possible through the inclusion of self-driving technology from Robotic Research. Its AutoDrive system acts as the eyes and brains of the vehicle by processing information from the environment in which the bus is operating. Meanwhile, its AutoDrive ByWire system acts as the hands and feet, controlling most of the bus’ movements.

These systems are designed to control a majority of the bus driving functions, enabling it to meet the SAE Level 4 designation for autonomous vehicles in which a human driver is not required when the autonomous driving functions are engaged.

New Flyer will be testing the bus with the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) in the coming year. An operator will be in the driver’s seat as a safety precaution.

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