Utah launches Autonomous Shuttle Pilot Project

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In partnership with the Utah Transit Authority (UTA), the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) launched its new Autonomous Shuttle Pilot Project on Thursday, April 11.

Over the next year, the shuttle will travel to different communities throughout Utah, providing the public with its first look at a completely autonomous vehicle (the shuttle will always have a host on board, though).

Capable of operating at up to 15 miles per hour, the shuttle follows a predetermined route during operations. It reacts in real-time to other vehicles, pedestrians and any obstacles in its path, thanks to being equipped with a full range of sensors.

The shuttle will not operate on main roads, but over the next year, the public will have the opportunity to ride the shuttle at a number of different locations in Utah. The Autonomous Shuttle Pilot Project will begin its tour at Station Park in Farmington, Utah next month.

UDOT and UTA are testing driverless technology to identify more opportunities to improve safety in Utah by decreasing the possibility for human error. They note that data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that human error is responsible for 94 percent of crashes.

UDOT and UTA will also examine how this technology can help provide increased mobility and access to individuals who are unable to drive themselves.