Renault tests driverless mini-bus in Barcelona

In Barcelona, Spain, Renault has begun testing a new driverless mini-bus as part of its efforts to innovate public transportation. This autonomous vehicle operates on a 2.2-kilometer circular route in the city center and utilizes advanced technology to navigate without human intervention. The mini-bus is equipped with ten cameras and eight lidar sensors, enabling it to safely maneuver through busy city streets filled with vehicles and pedestrians. Passengers can experience free rides during this testing phase, which aims to gather data about public response and operational effectiveness. The testing of the autonomous mini-bus was announced as part of Renault's collaboration with WeRide, a company specializing in autonomous vehicle technology. Previously, the vehicle prototype was revealed at the French Open venue. However, this phase marks its real-world functionality in an urban setting. The bus can operate for up to 120 kilometers (approximately 74 miles) on a single charge and can reach speeds of 40 kilometers per hour (25 mph). This initiative is seen as crucial for advancing Europe’s standing in the global autonomous vehicle market, where it currently trails behind the U.S. and China. The information gathered from the ongoing testing is intended to inform future developments in autonomous public transportation within Europe. With companies in other cities like San Francisco and Tokyo already piloting driverless taxis and buses successfully, the urgency for Europe to catch up is palpable. Patrick Vergelas, head of Renault's autonomous mobility projects, has expressed the need to show that such technologies can indeed work in Europe’s urban landscape, preparing the continent for an eventual transition to driverless public transport. During the public testing, a variety of reactions have been observed from the passengers aboard the mini-bus. Some riders have shown excitement by smiling and taking photos, while others have experienced apprehension or surprise, prompting actions like attempting to open the doors, demonstrating the varied human responses to emerging technologies. Carlos Santos, part of Renault’s autonomous driving team, confirmed that safety is a priority, as no accidents have been reported during the test runs in the city. These tests are paving the way for more extensive implementations of driverless technology in cities across Europe and highlight the innovative steps being taken in urban transportation.