StreetCAV Shuttles Set to Transform Urban Mobility

In a significant step toward transforming urban mobility, a self-driving shuttle named StreetCAV is set to begin operating in Milton Keynes in December.

Developed as a collaborative project between public and private organisations and supported by Zenzic's CAM Supply Chain UK program, StreetCAV aims to offer residents a safe, smart and sustainable transportation option. If initial trials are successful, this autonomous shuttle could be available for public use as early as 2025.

A blueprint for future mobility

Spearheading the StreetCAV project by Smart City Consultancy (SMCCL), it aims to serve as a model for similar initiatives across the UK.

Ian Pulford, CEO of SMCCL, the team's ambition extends beyond Milton Keynes. "The StreetCAV project has been going for some time now, so we are absolutely thrilled that it is finally at a stage where we can reveal it to the world."

"Thanks to the partners we've been fortunate to involve in the project, we truly believe we have developed a solution which can change the future of urban mobility while making our towns and cities smarter, greener and more inclusive."

Safety and control at the core

Ensuring public safety has been a central focus for StreetCAV. In close collaboration with Milton Keynes City Council, BT and ECS, SMCCL has established a city centre control room equipped with a dedicated communications network provided by CableFree.

The network will allow for the remote supervision and management of the autonomous Ohmio vehicles used in the trial.

Ian emphasised the importance of rigorous safety measures: "We have also worked vigorously to ensure public safety. Working closely with Milton Keynes City Council, BT and ECS, we will establish a city centre control room, connected by a specifically designed communications network provided by CableFree, which will, in turn, allow the Ohmio vehicles to supervise and manage it remotely."

Zenzic: Fueling innovation in autonomous mobility

StreetCAV has been made possible through Zenzic, an organisation formed by the UK government and industry stakeholders to promote advancements in autonomous and connected vehicles.

Since its inception, Zenzic has provided more than US$125m in funding for innovative projects and helped establish the CAM UK Testbed, a national facility for testing autonomous vehicle technologies.

Mark Cracknell, Program Director at Zenzic, expressed pride in supporting StreetCAV and described the project as a potential game-changer for transportation. 

"Should the trial prove a success, it could lay the foundations for a more connected, inclusive and resilient transportation network not only for Milton Keynes but for towns and cities across the globe."

"It is a perfect example of how, by working more collaboratively and bringing together industry, academia and the public sector, the UK can lead the way in accelerating the self-driving revolution."

A collaborative effort with far-reaching potential

StreetCAV results from collaborative efforts among a range of partners, including Milton Keynes City Council, Ohmio, CableFree, BT and Electronics Computers and Systems. These organisations bring expertise in urban infrastructure, vehicle design, connectivity and control systems.

If successful, the StreetCAV trial could pave the way for a new era in urban transportation. It would demonstrate the potential for self-driving shuttles to improve accessibility, reduce carbon emissions and enhance city living.

The milestone project highlights the potential of public-private partnerships to make UK cities not only smarter but also more sustainable and resilient.

Shaping the future of mobility

With StreetCAV set to hit the streets soon, Milton Keynes residents stand on the cusp of a transportation transformation.

As Zenzic, SMCCL and their partners push forward, this project could quickly make driverless shuttles a familiar part of everyday life, positioning the UK as a leader in the autonomous vehicle revolution.

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