In November, European MNO Vodafone announced it was working with Hamburg S-Bahn in Germany to test self-driving trains that can transport up to 30 percent more passengers, significantly improve punctuality and save more than 30 percent energy. Last week, building on that experience, the carrier said it had been working with Zaragoza City Council in Spain to develop what they claim to be Europe’s first connected and intelligent bus.
As part of the council’s Digizity project, the electric bus has already made its first trip through the streets of the Aragonese city, safely transporting passengers from one part of the town to the other.
Designed and managed by Avanza, Vodafone provides the 5G connectivity, so that the bus is able to communicate in real-time with city infrastructure, such as buildings and other vehicles.
A driving assistance system automates acceleration, braking, and can steer, without the need for driver intervention. The bus is also equipped with cameras and light detection and ranging systems to help it detect obstacles on the road.
In addition, its sensors allow greater global energy efficiency according to the current conditions (weather, vehicle occupancy, traffic, etc.) and a thermal management system improves passenger comfort, according to Vodafone. The idea is that this bus improves mobility, safety and accessibility in the most remote neighborhoods, reducing the risk of accidents and helping to plan routes and schedules.
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