At the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), ZF has unveiled its latest autonomous shuttle and announced a new partnership with Beep that aims to deliver several thousand units to the US market.
Under the agreement, which combines ZF’s autonomous transportation systems with Beep’s mobility services, the two companies plan to roll out the new vehicle in mixed traffic in urban environments.
Torsten Gollewski, Executive Vice President, Autonomous Mobility Systems at ZF, said:In order to reduce traffic-related emissions in metropolitan areas, a reduction in motorized individual transport and a simultaneous expansion of more sustainable, efficient, comfortable, and affordable mobility options are required.
The new Level 4 autonomous shuttle complements ZF’s established model which is designed to operate in segregated lanes. This will allow ZF to offer two shuttle types – one for use in segregated lanes and one for urban environments and mixed traffic.
The new shuttle is equipped with sensor technology consisting of lidar, radar, camera and audio systems that precisely monitor the surrounding environment.
In addition, the system uses technology such as the ZF ProConnect platform which communicates with compatible surrounding infrastructure and the cloud to support the ZF Virtual Driver.
The shuttle can cover up to 80 miles in pure electric mode at initial maximum speed of 25 mph.
Joe Moye, Chief Executive Officer for Beep said:We are excited to partner with ZF to bring their next shuttle generation to market in the United States. ZF’s full suite of shuttle services, its US partner network and its automotive-grade vehicle complement our turnkey mobility networks and autonomous services technology platform.
