Asset managers and highway maintenance teams look set to benefit from self driving vehicles after an innovative technology trial led by Amey received funding from Government.

 

The 15 month project will build a prototype autonomous vehicle capable of carrying out service tasks like grass cutting and street cleaning while sensors gather information on the condition of highway assets.

 

Data collected could inform the efficient maintenance and management of street furniture, bridges or even the road surface. It is said that the use of autonomous technology would remove the risk to highway operatives working in high risk areas.

 

The so called Connected Autonomous Sensing Service Delivery Vehicles study is being taken forward by Amey and technology specialist RACE. This was one of 24 driverless car initiatives awarded a share of £31M by Innovate UK last week.

 

Another successful project will see ‘platoons’ of self driving cars tested on public roads between Stockport Railway Station and Manchester Airport from January next year. ‘Project Synergy’ – as it is known – will trial three vehicles travelling close together at speeds of up to 70MPH on the route.

 

Meanwhile consultant AECOM will lead the ‘CAPRI’ pilot scheme to test driverless ‘pods on demand’ at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London. This could pave the way for the use of connected and autonomous vehicles to move people around airports, hospitals, business parks, shopping and tourist centres.

 

Secretary of State for the Department of Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, Greg Clark said: “The race for developing connected and autonomous vehicles is accelerating and as a Government we are determined to build on our strengths and ensure the UK is at the forefront of this revolution.”

 

(Photo: Oxbotica)