Making shared driverless vehicles mainstream: Findings from FABULOS self-driving Pilot (Case Study)  

The European Union funded FABULOS project runs pilots with fleets of autonomous shuttle buses in 5 different cities, including the establishment of a remote control centre. To this end, 6 public procurers are working together with 3 supplying consortia in a multiyear R&D process. Technical innovation is needed before large fleets of automated shuttles can be an integrated part of last-mile public transportation in cities. Helsinki is consolidating its frontrunner status in the field of shared autonomous mobility, by facilitating testing of these prototype solutions in mixed traffic at a busy mobility hub. FABULOS shows how innovation procurement can contribute to novel solutions needed in cities that are preparing for a future where autonomous mobility will be the norm.

This presentation will cover the “why & what”, taking a city perspective, as well as the “how & when”, explained from a supplier point of view. Forum Virium Helsinki is the innovation company owned by the City of Helsinki and Sensible 4 makes self-driving software and uses GACHA shuttles to demonstrate its capabilities.