The Sunderland Advanced Mobility Shuttle (SAMS) initiative has announced a partnership with Oxa to bring its autonomous vehicle platform to the city’s self-driving project.
Running through the first quarter of 2025, Oxa will provide SAMS with a new autonomous Ford E-Transit shuttle equipped with its self-driving technology.
Councillor Michael Mordey, leader of Sunderland City Council, said:The SAMS project marks a significant milestone in Sunderland’s smart city journey, and we are thrilled to welcome Oxa on board.
This initiative is not just about testing new technology; it's about improving the quality of life for our residents by offering efficient, sustainable transport options. Oxa’s expertise in autonomous vehicle technology is integral to our shared vision of creating a forward-thinking, sustainable transport system for the people of Sunderland.
Sunderland’s initiative aims to demonstrate the benefits of autonomous passenger shuttles for the local community, looking to provide transportation to key city destinations whilst simultaneously reducing the environmental impacts of traditional modes of transit.
The project is led by Sunderland City Council, alongside a consortium of six other public and private partners. SAMS has also been backed by both the Centre for Connected & Autonomous Vehicles (CCAV) and Innovate UK (supported by Zenzic).
Gavin Jackson, CEO at Oxa, said:We’re proud to be part of the movement to radically modernise public transport in the UK. We’re taking an innovative approach to bringing autonomy to customers and communities today, and are excited to be getting started in Sunderland.
The project will demonstrate the potential of autonomous vehicles to create safe, efficient and sustainable transport solutions. We look forward to working closely with the council and partners to make this vision a reality
