ZF launched new generation driverless shuttle in cooperation with Beep
The partnership between the German giant and Beep has been unveiled at the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.
The next generation complements the established model, which is primarily designed for use in segregated lanes (the reference is to the model built with the partially owned 2getthere).
ZF cooperates with Beep
As mentioned above, the new shuttle generation ZF announces a strategic partnership with U.S. mobility services provider Beep. The agreement “aims to deliver several thousand shuttles to customers over the coming years, combining ZF’s ATS with Beep’s mobility services and service management platform into a single-source autonomous mobility solution”, ZF says.
With selectable battery capacities between 50 and 100 kWh, the next-generation shuttle can cover up to 80 miles in pure electric mode – at a maximum speed of initially 25 mph, in further development of 50 mph, ZF says. The Shuttle offers a total passenger capacity of 22 with up to 15 seated. The vehicle conforms to requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and includes an automatic ramp and wheelchair restraints. The interior is customizable in layout and trim level. With front- and rear-wheel steer and kneeling functions, distance to the sidewalk is reduced to a minimum when approaching a stop. This enables the shuttle to dock precisely and provide barrier-free boarding and disembarking.
Driverless shuttles as answer to driver shortage?
The company adds: “With its Autonomous Transport Systems, ZF is driving a mobility transformation, while offering a solution to the serious driver shortage in local public transport. In the near future, ZF can offer two shuttle types – one primarily for use in segregated lanes and the new model, which will be used primarily in urban environments and in mixed traffic”.
The new shuttle is equipped with sensor technology consisting of lidar, radar, camera, and audio systems that provide precise environmental detection. This is complemented by other technology such as the ZF ProConnect connectivity platform, which enables communication with the infrastructure and the cloud, as well as the ZF ProAI supercomputer, where data converge.
