Autonomous vehicle pilot program set to launch in Peoria, Arizona in late February

February 7, 2020 | AUVSI News

Peoria, Arizona’s city council has approved the funding for a 60-day autonomous vehicle pilot program with Beep, an autonomous mobility technologies company based in Florida. 

The program will result in Arizona’s first shared-ride, autonomous shuttle operating on a public street.

“This transportation pilot is a unique experiment for our community,” says Mayor Cathy Carlat.

“We see this as an important step as we seek to understand some of the innovative solutions that exist around the world, and how they bring value to Peoria residents.”

Set to launch on Saturday, Feb. 22, the fully electric, driverless shuttle, which has no steering wheel or pedals, will operate daily from noon to 6 p.m. Using a combination of localization techniques, involving high-powered censors and cameras, the shuttle will operate along a pre-programmed, fixed route.

Capable of holding up to 10 passengers at a time, the ADA accessible shuttle will operate at a maximum speed of 15 miles per hour during the pilot program. There are no fees, pre-screening or appointments required to ride in the shuttle. 

An attendant will be onboard at all times to make sure that riders have a pleasant and safe experience, and the Beep Command Center can also communicate with the onboard shuttle attendant at any time.

“We are extremely excited about this opportunity,” says Peoria Public Works Director Kevin Burke. “This is level 5 autonomous technology. It could be a game changer for Peoria transit.”

The goal of the pilot program is to understand the feasibility of using autonomous vehicles for the first and last mile of individual trips made primarily by public transportation. Ridership adoption behaviors and patterns in the city of Peoria will also be captured during the pilot program.

“Peoria’s passion for innovation and sustainability is evident through their vision and leadership on this project,” says Joe Moye, CEO of Beep.

“We are very excited to be a part of this collaboration to offer a safe, green and intelligent mobility solution so Peoria’s residents and visitors can have an even more exciting spring training experience.”