Rolling bus shelter

Important results from the project

The feasibility study aims at understanding opportunities and limitations; in a technical perspective when it comes to self-driving small buses in rural areas: from a behavioral perspective, ie acceptance of the technical innovation of travelers and the public. The conclusion is that the technology is mature and can be tested in the winter climate in the countryside. 3 different possible routes have been analyzed within the municipality of Skellefteå. The costs have been obtained through tenders from operators.

Expected long term effects

The project raises the technical solution of self-propelled small buses from the urban perspective to the countryside. In rural areas there is today a challenge in providing good public transport to all residents. Here, there is a potential for autonomous buses as a feeder bus to the main line, due to lower operating costs. With self-propelled connection traffic to strong public transport routes, public transport can be arranged for smaller communities that today are side of the main line. There is also a comfort and safety benefit, as the vehicle can be used as bus shelter.

Approach and implementation

A large part of the work is about understanding the possibility of practical application in rural areas in Skellefteå municipality as well as creating a partner network. The literature study within the state of the art is thus central. For the next step, which is a full-fledged FoI application, we can use this feasibility study to create the framework for knowledge in the area, to build a partner network, and thereby also assess the needs and costs of a future demonstration project.