Fusion Processing has launched passenger services for its autonomous electric bus in Cambridge, kicking off what’s expected to be a long-term trial of self-driving public transport in the city. The bus uses Fusion’s CAVstar automated drive system and runs on the Greater Cambridge Partnership’s Connector route, with support from Innovate UK and the Centre for Connected & Autonomous Vehicles (CCAV).
The trial started with a Mellor Orion E electric midi bus, with two larger Alexander Dennis Enviro100AEV electric buses set to join later this year. All vehicles are equipped with the CAVstar system and have a safety driver onboard.
The route links Madingley Road Park & Ride with the University of Cambridge’s Eddington neighbourhood and the Cambridge West Innovation District. Rides are currently free as part of the trial, which aims to see how the autonomous technology works in a real city environment alongside pedestrians, cyclists, and other traffic.
Before launching, the buses went through safety driver training and test track trials. The project is run by a group that includes Fusion Processing, Alexander Dennis, IPG Automotive, dRISK, Whippet Coaches, and the Greater Cambridge Partnership.
