NORWAY
Since spring 2022, Norwegian transport authority Kolumbus has been testing an autonomous bus. Initially it was operated on a short route carrying paying passengers in Stavanger, where Kolumbus says the bus performed well, and since December 2023 it has been deployed on a much more challenging route requiring lane changes in heavy traffic, driving at higher speeds and through a tunnel. The goal is for the bus to eventually operate at speeds up to 50kmh.
“As a public transport authority it is important for us to be a part of this groundbreaking project. We believe that self-driving buses will be an important part of the future public transportation system. It will reduce costs, increase traffic safety and be an answer to the lack of bus drivers which already is a huge issue. We are thrilled to cooperate with professional, innovative, and world-leading companies in this process,” said Edith Nøkling, CEO of Kolumbus.
The trials are being supported by technology partner Adastec. CEO Ali Peker said: “We’re thrilled to introduce our new route in Stavanger, and I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Vy and Kolumbus for their confidence in our vision. At Adastec, we’re not just about advancing technology; we’re about ensuring that every journey is safe, dependable, and accessible. Our partnership with Karsan has enabled us to integrate our advanced SAE Level-4 automated driving software directly into top-tier electric buses in the production line, setting new benchmarks for public transport. As we lead the European market in this industry, we’re here to redefine urban mobility, making it a seamless, enjoyable part of daily life for the communities we’re proud to serve, all while continuing to be proud of our status as Europe’s first automated bus service.”
Kerem Per, Adastec’s Chief Technology Officer, added: “The launch of our new route in Stavanger reflects Adastec’s dedication to SAE Level-4 automation in public transportation. Our platform, flowride.ai, is the cornerstone of this progress, seamlessly navigating the complexities of urban routes, including the 800m tunnel while maintaining a safe speed of 40kmh. This achievement highlights the seamless integration of our technology with Vy and Kolumbus’s operational expertise, illustrating our joint commitment not just to evolve but to revolutionise the mobility landscape. We are proud to lead this charge, driving the development of automated buses that are integral to the infrastructure of intelligent, sustainable urban environments.”
The trials use a Karsan e-Atak midibus, which is operated by Vy, Norway’s government-owned railway company which also operates many bus services in the country.
