This Self-Driving Bus Is Currently Offering Free Rides Around Clark
There’s still a ways to go before we start seeing the widespread use of autonomous vehicles here in the Philippines, but one day, we’ll get there. Eventually. And we’re going to have to start small.
Something as small as this one: the rollout of a smart autonomous bus service in New Clark City. The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has just unveiled to the public its new Navya smart autonomous vehicle, launched by Japan-based company Zenmov in partnership MC Metro Transport Operation.
This self-driving bus will run on select routes as a last-mile service passing through New Clark City, Clark Freeport Zone, and Clark International Airport. It will operate under the new demonstration project ‘Primary Rapid Transit.’
The bus, specifically, is the Navya Autonom Shuttle Evo. It can ferry 15 people—11 seated, four standing—and run for nine hours straight on average. It can go up to 25kph. Apart from the rollout of this autonomous vehicle, Zenmov and MC Metro are also deploying low-carbon EVs and electrified bicycles and will be installing smart poles, drones, and charging stations.
“We can definitely learn a lot from Japan’s advanced and innovative transport system. By integrating their smart autonomous vehicle technology, we ensure a more sustainable and scalable transport solution here in Clark,” said BCDA executive vice president and chief operating officer Atty. Gisela Z. Kalalo. “This will positively transform the everyday lives of those living and working within Clark—making it easier to get around, reducing traffic congestion, and promoting a green and low-carbon environment.”
Trips will be free of charge for now and will continue to be free until the Land Transportation Office and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board finalize fare collection for the autonomous buses.
Source: Top Gear Philippines
Philippines