Germany’s KelRide project is entering its final phase, introducing Europe’s largest connected operating area for autonomous shuttles.
This expansion will see five autonomous vehicles from EasyMile used on a 30-kilometre road network in the district of Kelheim, Germany. In doing so, the project will establish the largest contiguous coverage of highly automated public transport in Europe.
Federal Transport Minister Dr. Volker Wissing said:Autonomous transport services are the ideal complement to the Deutschlandticket. The autonomous on-demand shuttle arrives exactly when one needs it and, as a feeder to the train and regional bus, enables a flexible switch to public transport.
The KelRide project shows that autonomous shuttles also have a future in rural areas. With an operational area of 30 kilometers, the district of Kelheim is setting new standards for the operation of highly automated shuttles in Germany and Europe.
To improve the all-weather capability of autonomous shuttles, the KelRide project has focussed on the implementation of sensor technologies and adaptive software solutions.
In its final phase, which will last until the end of June 2024, the shuttles will now be tested in real-life conditions.
Gilbert Gagnaire, CEO of consortium leader EasyMile said:New mobility services such as highly automated on-demand services can offer passengers more flexibility, relieve road congestion and reduce emissions. In order to ensure reliable availability even in harsh weather conditions, the KelRide project under EasyMile's consortium leadership has successfully focused on the development of a weather-independent, autonomous shuttle service in public transport over the past three years. We are very proud of the consortium's results.
The project is being carried out by a consortium consisting of EasyMile, TÜV Rheinland, Via and P3 Group, alongside the district of Kelheim and the Technical University of Berlin.
The project is being funded by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) with a total of 9.93 million EUR.
