Practical integrations of autonomous vehicles in public transport

Join us for an insightful exploration of the HertsLynx CAM On-Demand Project, an initiative examining how autonomous vehicles (AVs) could enhance connectivity in the Maylands Business Park area of Hertfordshire. This webinar focuses on the realistic challenges and opportunities of applying AVs to public transport as part of a demand-responsive transport (DRT) system.

Maylands Business Park, home to over 650 businesses employing more than 20,000 people, faces significant public transport challenges. Located approximately nine miles from St Albans Train Station and six miles from Harpenden Train Station, existing bus options from St Albans take up to 60 minutes and require two transfers, while a car journey takes just 15 minutes. Harpenden currently lacks a practical bus connection altogether.

The project, led by Hertfordshire County Council in partnership with Sustainicity, Padam Mobility, Fusion Processing Ltd, and others, evaluated the potential for autonomous DRT buses to improve access between Maylands and local rail stations. The study involved identifying viable routes that could accommodate current or near-term AV technologies without requiring substantial infrastructure changes. Using the Padam Mobility Simulation Tool, regional transport data, and insights from the existing HertsLynx Transport On-Demand service, the team analysed potential demand and operational performance.

The results feed into a proposed service model that combines scheduled and on-demand elements with a mixed fleet of 15- and 25-seater vehicles. A notional timetable was developed to effectively meet the expected demand. In addition, Sustainicity created a return on investment estimation toolkit to provide practical support to those interested in investigating the feasibility of autonomous bus services.

The webinar, hosted by Padam Mobility in collaboration with Sustainicity, will delve into the project’s outcomes, shedding light on the factors influencing the integration of autonomous vehicles into public transport networks. From technical and logistical considerations to their potential role in addressing connectivity gaps, the session offers a grounded perspective on what is possible and what challenges remain.